High in the canopy, a burst of color catches your eye. It’s the Flame-rumped Tanager, a vibrant songbird gracing the Costa Rican mountains with its presence. Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the lush rainforest, sightings of this little beauty are frequent treats.

The Flame-rumped Tanager (Ramphocelus flammigerus) is a true marvel of avian fashion. But don’t be fooled by its name – this tanager boasts a dazzling display of not just flame, but depending on the subspecies, sunshine yellow too!

A Tale of Two Rumps

This bird actually comes in two distinct flavors:

• The Fiery Fellow: The nominate subspecies, Ramphocelus flammigerus flammigerus, is the one that truly earns the “flame-rumped” title. Males of this subspecies are a sight to behold. Imagine a sleek, jet-black body accented by a fiery red rump that positively pops against the emerald backdrop of the rainforest.
• The Sunny Southerner: The southern subspecies, Ramphocelus flammigerus icteronotus, trades the fiery red for a bright, sunshine yellow rump. Males of this subspecies still have the sharp black plumage, but the contrast with the yellow rump creates a striking elegance.

Females, in both subspecies, are less flamboyant but no less beautiful. They sport a rich, dark brown upper body with a warm yellow chest and belly, keeping in theme with the vibrant rump color of their mates.

A Forest Forager

The Flame-rumped Tanager is a bird of the lower and mid-levels of the rainforest, flitting through the foliage in pairs or small family groups. They’re omnivores, enjoying a varied diet of fruits, berries, insects, and even the occasional small lizard.

Keep your eyes peeled for them foraging in the trees around our retreat. Their bright colors make them easy to spot, and their calls – a series of sharp chirps and whistles – can often be heard before you see them.

A Species of Least Concern

Thankfully, the Flame-rumped Tanager is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. However, like many rainforest birds, they are susceptible to habitat loss. Here at our mountain retreat, we take great pride in sustainable practices that protect the rainforest ecosystem, ensuring a haven for these fiery feathered friends for generations to come.

So, the next time you’re here at our Costa Rican retreat, take a moment to explore the wonders of the rainforest canopy. You just might be rewarded with a dazzling glimpse of the Flame-rumped Tanager, a flash of color that embodies the vibrant spirit of the Costa Rican mountains.

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

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