Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rican rainforests, we’re fortunate to be privy to a dazzling array of avian visitors. Today, we turn our gaze to a seasonal guest, a vibrant spark against the lush backdrop: the Baltimore oriole.

The Baltimore oriole, with its fiery orange plumage and bold black mask in males, is a visitor from North America. Come fall, as the chill descends upon their northern homes, these orioles embark on a southerly journey, transforming the Costa Rican dry season (December to April) into their own vibrant winter wonderland.

While not as common as some resident species, keep your eyes peeled (and ears perked!) for these bursts of orange flitting amongst the trees. You’re most likely to encounter them at the mid-elevations where our retreat resides.

A Feast for the Senses

The Baltimore oriole is a true omnivore. Their sharp beaks are perfectly adapted to extract nectar from the flowers of Erythrina, Inga, and Calliandra trees, adding a sweet melody to the rainforest symphony with their excited chirps as they dine. They’re also frequent visitors to fruit feeders, savoring bananas and a medley of other tropical offerings. But their diet isn’t solely sweet. These orioles are adept hunters, gleaning insects from branches and leaves, keeping the rainforest ecosystem in balance.

A Song of the Seasons

While their full, whistled song is a cherished melody in their northern homes, here in Costa Rica, you’ll more likely hear their sharp “churr” calls as they communicate and navigate the rainforest. However, some lucky visitors might be treated to a preview of their spring serenade as they prepare for their northward migration.

Spotting a Baltimore Oriole

These active birds are rarely still for long. But keep an eye out for them in the middle to upper canopy of trees, particularly near flowering trees or fruit feeders. Their orange plumage, especially on the males, is a dead giveaway. Females and young males are more subdued, with yellowish to orange undersides and black markings on the head.

A Transient Treasure

The Baltimore oriole’s presence in Costa Rica is a fleeting gift, a reminder of the interconnectedness of the natural world. As spring approaches, they’ll answer the call north, leaving behind a memory of vibrant orange against the emerald tapestry of the rainforest. But fear not, for Costa Rica boasts a wealth of resident avian wonders waiting to be discovered. Stay tuned as we explore the dazzling diversity of birds that call our mountain retreat home!

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

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