While the mountains of Costa Rica are a haven for resident tropical birds, our privileged location also welcomes fascinating visitors on their epic journeys. One such visitor is the American Golden-Plover, a dazzling shorebird that graces our skies during its remarkable migration.

A Master of the Long Haul

The American Golden-Plover is a champion of long-distance travel. Twice a year, these medium-sized shorebirds embark on a circular migration route that stretches up to an astonishing 20,000 miles! They breed in the Arctic tundra of Alaska and Canada, then fly south for the winter, reaching as far as Argentina and Chile. Costa Rica falls right along their migratory path, offering a vital stopover point for them to rest and refuel.

Spotting a Golden Gem

These birds are most likely seen in Costa Rica during the fall migration, between September and November. Look for them in open areas like pastures, plowed fields, or even along the coast if they’re close to their wintering grounds.

Identifying an American Golden-Plover can be a delightful challenge. In their breeding plumage, they’re a sight to behold. The males boast a stunning black and white tuxedo, accented with a mesmerizing back spangled with gold. Females are similar but with less black.

However, during migration, they trade their flashy outfits for a more subdued look. They become overall grayish-brown with a distinct white eyebrow and a darker crown. Their slender build, long pointed wings, and short, blunt tail are key features to help you distinguish them from other plovers.

A Glimpse into Their World

While here, American Golden-Plovers are busy refueling for their onward journey. They forage in classic plover style, running short distances and stopping abruptly to probe the ground with their beaks for insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.

These birds are highly social and often form large, noisy flocks during migration. Watching them take flight is a beautiful sight, their wings beating rapidly as they maneuver with impressive agility.

The Importance of a Stopover

Costa Rica’s rich ecosystems provide a crucial resting and feeding ground for the American Golden-Plover. Protecting these habitats ensures that these incredible birds have the energy reserves they need to complete their extraordinary migrations.

Seeing a Golden Visitor

If you’re lucky enough to spot an American Golden-Plover during your stay at our mountain retreat, take a moment to appreciate the wonder of bird migration. These feathered athletes remind us of the interconnectedness of our planet and the importance of protecting stopover habitats like the lush rainforests of Costa Rica.

Keep an eye on the skies! You never know what incredible visitor you might spot next.

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