Here at Hotel Rivel, nature’s wonders surround you. From towering trees to vibrant blooms, every corner whispers with life. Today, we set our sights on a resident of the forest floor, the aptly named Red-throated Ant-Tanager.
A Splash of Color in the Undergrowth
The Red-throated Ant-Tanager (Habia fuscicauda) is a medium-sized songbird, reaching about 7.5 inches in length. While not the most flamboyant bird in Costa Rica’s treasure trove of avian beauty, the Red-throated Ant-Tanager makes up for it with a distinctive splash of color.
Spotting the Males
The male Red-throated Ant-Tanager is a sight to behold. His plumage is a dusky red, almost like embers, with a surprising pop of color on his throat and crown. A bright red patch adorns his throat, while the center of his crown boasts a similar red splash. This vibrant red creates a stunning contrast against his dusky body, making him a true standout in the dappled sunlight filtering through the forest floor.
Females with Subtle Elegance
The female Red-throated Ant-Tanager takes a more understated approach to fashion. Her plumage is a brownish olive, offering excellent camouflage amidst the forest undergrowth. However, she doesn’t lack her own touch of style. A bright yellow patch adorns her throat, a beacon that complements the red throat of her mate.
A Life on the Forest Floor
The Red-throated Ant-Tanager, as its name suggests, spends a significant amount of time foraging on the forest floor. Here, they feast on a variety of insects, including beetles, ants, and caterpillars. Their short, strong beaks are perfectly adapted for snatching prey hidden amongst the leaf litter.
Interestingly, despite their name, they are not exclusive ant-eaters. They readily exploit the feeding frenzy created by army ant swarms, following the ants and snatching up the insects and other small creatures flushed from hiding by the ant cavalry.
A Vocal Resident
While not the most colorful bird in the rainforest, the Red-throated Ant-Tanager makes its presence known with its vocalizations. They possess a low rasping call, a perfect sound for navigating the dense undergrowth. Listen carefully during your walks through the forest, and you might be lucky enough to hear this distinctive call echoing amongst the trees.
Finding the Red-throated Ant-Tanager
The Red-throated Ant-Tanager is a resident breeder on the Caribbean slopes of Costa Rica, ranging from southeastern Mexico to eastern Panama. Here at Hotel Rivel, nestled amidst the lush rainforests, you have a great chance of encountering this little wonder. Keep your eyes peeled for flashes of red amongst the undergrowth, and with a little patience, you might just spot this dazzling songbird.
So, the next time you’re exploring the forest floor at Hotel Rivel, keep an eye out for the Red-throated Ant-Tanager. This little burst of color might be just the surprise you’re looking for!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
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