Welcome back, nature enthusiasts, to another feathered friend gracing our mountain retreat in Costa Rica! Today, we turn our binoculars to a common sight in the lowlands and foothills, the vibrantly colored Blue-gray Tanager (Thraupis episcopus).

A splash of color:

This medium-sized songbird, measuring 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 inches) in length, is sure to catch your eye. Males boast a stunning plumage – a light bluish-grey head and underparts that contrast beautifully with their darker blue upperparts. The shoulder patch adds another layer of intrigue, often showcasing a slightly different shade of blue. Females and juveniles, while lacking the male’s vibrancy, are still a lovely shade of dull blue, making them easy to identify within a flock.

Song of the mountains (well, not quite):

While you might not find them dwelling in our higher mountain reaches, Blue-gray Tanagers are happy residents of the foothills and love semi-open areas. Keep an eye out for them along forest edges, by roads and rivers, or even in agricultural fields and urban parks. They’re not shy birds and often travel in pairs or small flocks, flitting from branch to branch in their search for food.

A varied diet:

These opportunistic feeders are omnivores, enjoying a diverse menu. Fruits of all kinds, including cultivated varieties like papaya, are a favorite. They’ll also readily snatch up insects and other invertebrates, making them valuable pest controllers in the gardens they frequent.

Listen for their sweet serenade:

The Blue-gray Tanager isn’t just visually pleasing; it’s a talented singer too. Their song is a delightful squeaky twittering, punctuated by clear “tseee” and “tsuup” calls. If you hear these cheerful notes while exploring the lower areas around our retreat, take a moment to scan the trees – you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this charming avian resident.

Feathered neighbors you can call your own:

The Blue-gray Tanager is a widespread and adaptable bird, with a conservation status of “Least Concern”. So, while venturing out of our mountain retreat on your Costa Rican explorations, keep an eye out for these little flashes of blue. They’re a common sight in many parts of the country, adding a touch of avian beauty to your Costa Rican adventure.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

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