While our mountain retreat offers stunning views and abundant rainforest wildlife, Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity extends to its coasts as well. Today, we set our sights on a fascinating visitor that graces our Pacific shores during its epic migrations – the Ruddy Turnstone.

A Shorebird Far From Shore

Though you might not expect a shorebird in the mountains, the Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres) is a true globetrotter. These small wading birds breed in the high Arctic tundra, but their incredible migratory journeys take them to coastlines across the world, including Costa Rica’s Pacific beaches. From September to May, keep an eye out for these colorful characters flitting along the rocky shores or sandy beaches near our retreat.

A Calico of the Coast

The Ruddy Turnstone is a visual treat. During breeding season, males sport a stunning black-and-white head and throat, with a vibrant patchwork of chestnut and black on their backs, resembling a calico cat. Females are slightly less flashy, but still boast a beautiful pattern of browns and grays. Even in their non-breeding plumage, Ruddy Turnstones are easy to spot with their bright orange legs and white underparts.

Masters of the Flip

These shorebirds are more than just pretty faces. They’re skilled foragers, using their short, stout bills to expertly flip over rocks, seaweed, and debris along the shoreline. This acrobatic act reveals a smorgasbord of tasty treats hidden beneath, including insects, crustaceans, and marine worms. Their short legs and low center of gravity keep them balanced on the slippery rocks, making them masters of their coastal domain.

A Global Citizen

The Ruddy Turnstone is a true citizen of the world. Their breeding grounds span the Arctic regions of North America, Eurasia, and Greenland. But their wintering destinations are truly impressive. They embark on long-distance flights, gracing the coastlines of South America, Africa, Australia, and even reaching as far as New Zealand.

A Glimpse of a Global Traveler

While you won’t find them flitting through the rainforest canopy, spotting a Ruddy Turnstone on the Pacific shore near our retreat is a remarkable experience. These vibrant shorebirds are a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet and the incredible journeys undertaken by some of our feathered friends. So, on your next visit to our Costa Rican haven, take a trip to the coast and see if you can catch a glimpse of the Ruddy Turnstone, a global traveler gracing our shores for a season.

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