While toucans and macaws might steal the show with their vibrant colors, a smaller songbird gracing Hotel Rivel’s grounds deserves a spotlight too: the Rose-breasted Grosbeak. This seasonally stunning visitor might surprise you with its unexpected presence in the heart of Costa Rica.

A Bird of Two Worlds

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a fascinating example of avian wanderlust. Primarily a bird of eastern North America, it spends its summers breeding in lush deciduous forests before embarking on an impressive southward migration. During these travels, some Rose-breasted Grosbeaks find themselves in the tropical paradise of Costa Rica, gracing Hotel Rivel with their presence for a short while.

Spotting a Splash of Color

The male Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a sight to behold. He sports a sleek black cap, wings, and back, sharply contrasted by a snowy white breast. But the true star of the show is the unmistakable rose-red patch that adorns his chest, giving the bird its namesake. Females and immature males are clad in a more subdued wardrobe of brown, streaked with buff and white, but their large, conical bills are a giveaway.

A Melodious Migrant

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak isn’t just a pretty face (or, rather, chest). It’s also a gifted vocalist. Listen for its beautiful song, often described as a complex, extended version of the American Robin’s melody. This rich, whistled song is a delightful addition to the dawn chorus at Hotel Rivel.

A Life in the Trees

While here, keep an eye out for Rose-breasted Grosbeaks flitting through the trees. These acrobatic birds are adept foliage gleaners, using their strong bills to extract insects and other invertebrates hidden amongst the leaves. They might also be spotted perched on branches, cracking open seeds with their powerful beaks.

A Transient Guest

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak’s stay at Hotel Rivel is a fleeting one. By late fall, they’ll have continued their journey further south to spend the winter in the warmth of Central and South America. But their brief stopover adds a touch of wonder to the biodiversity of our mountain retreat.

A Birder’s Paradise

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is just one of the many avian gems you can encounter at Hotel Rivel. Our lush mountain setting provides a haven for an incredible variety of resident and migratory birds. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just spot this colorful visitor or countless other feathered wonders. So, pack your binoculars, grab your birding guide, and get ready to be enchanted by the remarkable birdsong that fills the air at Hotel Rivel.

Tip: Early mornings are often the best time to spot birds as they’re more active searching for food. Look for them near edges of forests and in areas with abundant fruit trees, which they favor during migration.

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

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