High in the Costa Rican mountains, our retreat offers a haven for nature lovers. But amidst the lush greenery and vibrant flora, it’s the flitting jewels of the bird world that truly steal the show. Today, we turn our binoculars to a visitor that injects a burst of sunshine into the cloud forest – the Prothonotary Warbler.
A Dazzling Dress Code
Imagine a bird dipped in sunshine. That’s the Prothonotary Warbler! The male is a vision in brilliant golden yellow, a color that extends from his head down to his chest. His back boasts a hint of olive green, adding a touch of depth to his plumage. Sharp blue-gray wings and tail feathers complete the picture, with a flash of white visible underneath his tail. The female, while lacking the male’s vibrancy, is no less charming. Her yellow is softer, more like dandelion fluff, and her overall plumage is slightly duller.
A Songster of the Understory
While you might expect such a striking bird to dominate the treetops, the Prothonotary Warbler prefers the lower levels of the forest. He flits through the understory, a flash of yellow amongst the green foliage. He’s an active forager, hopping along branches and fallen trees, his short legs propelling him with surprising agility. His sharp eyes scan for insects, snails, and other treats that make up his diet.
A Voice Like Bells
Look up, though, and you might be rewarded with a delightful song. The Prothonotary Warbler’s melody is a simple yet captivating series of high-pitched notes – a clear, ringing “sweet-sweet-sweet” that echoes through the trees. This vibrant song is a surefire sign that a male is claiming his territory or trying to attract a mate.
A Traveler from Afar
These little bursts of sunshine are actually migrants. They breed in the southeastern United States, making their way down to Costa Rica and other parts of Central and South America for the winter. Here at our mountain retreat, we’re lucky enough to witness them during their stopover, usually from September to April.
A Special Guest in the Cloud Forest
The Prothonotary Warbler’s preferred habitat is swampy forests and areas near water. While not as common in the mountains as some other warbler species, they can sometimes be spotted in our retreat’s lower areas, particularly near streams or ponds. If you’re fortunate enough to see one, take a moment to appreciate this dazzling visitor, a tiny ambassador from a world away.
Spotting Tips:
- Look for a small (around 5.5 inches) bright yellow bird with a short tail and a large bill.
- Watch for them foraging in the lower parts of the forest, hopping along branches or flitting between shrubs.
- Listen for their clear, ringing song – a series of high-pitched “sweet” notes.
With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be lucky enough to encounter the Prothonotary Warbler during your stay at our mountain retreat. This little ball of sunshine is a reminder of the incredible diversity of birdlife that Costa Rica has to offer. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might just witness a touch of magic flitting through the trees.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
