Here at our Costa Rican retreat nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we wake up each day to a symphony of birdsong. Today, let’s turn our attention to a vibrant resident gracing the forest canopy – the Silver-throated Tanager (Tangara icterocephala).
A Dazzling Dress Code
True to its name, the Silver-throated Tanager is a sight to behold. Males, in particular, sport a dazzling outfit. Imagine a bright yellow body, like a burst of sunshine, offset by a stunning silvery-white throat patch. A bold black stripe frames this striking feature, extending from the cheeks. The back adds a touch of intricacy with streaks of black dancing on the yellow canvas. Even the wings and tail, predominantly yellow, boast delicate green edges – a testament to nature’s exquisite artistry.
Females Opt for Subtlety
Females, while lacking the male’s flamboyant flair, are no less beautiful. They share the same basic color scheme but with a more muted palette. Their yellow leans towards green, and the black markings are fainter. They might even have a touch of subtle mottling on their crown, adding a unique touch.
A Life Among the Leaves
These little tanagers, averaging around 5 inches in length, are a common sight in Costa Rica. You’ll find them flitting through the mossy forests, montane evergreen havens, and tropical lowland rainforests that grace our mountain retreat. They’re not shy to explore forest edges, tall secondary forests, and even areas with remnant trees, showcasing their adaptability.
Social Butterflies (…Well, Almost)
While primarily found alone or in pairs, the Silver-throated Tanager isn’t averse to some social interaction. Keep an eye out for them joining mixed-species feeding flocks, a vibrant display of cooperation amongst feathered friends.
A Fruity Feast
These active tanagers are insectivores at heart. They spend their days flitting from branch to branch, meticulously searching for insects to fuel their energetic lifestyle. But their diet isn’t limited to just creepy crawlies. They also have a sweet tooth and enjoy indulging in a variety of fruits, making them valuable dispersers of seeds throughout the rainforest.
A Song to Brighten Your Day
The Silver-throated Tanager isn’t just a visual treat; it’s an auditory one as well. Their calls are described as a series of sharp, high-pitched “chi-chi” notes, often interspersed with a sweeter, whistled song. It’s a delightful melody that adds to the captivating atmosphere of the Costa Rican rainforest.
Witnessing a Natural Wonder
The Silver-throated Tanager is a resident you’re likely to encounter during your stay at our mountain retreat. So, keep your eyes peeled as you explore the lush trails, and you might just catch a glimpse of this dazzling little wonder flitting through the trees. And if you’re lucky enough to hear their sweet song, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and symphony of life that surrounds you in the heart of Costa Rica.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)