Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we’re surrounded by a symphony of birdsong. Today, we turn our binoculars to a vibrant resident, the Yellow-throated Euphonia (Euphonia hirundinacea).

This little songbird is a splash of color against the lush backdrop of our rainforests. Males are unmistakable, with their glossy blue-black plumage. Their namesake feature, a bright yellow patch on the throat, adds a cheerful pop. Females are more subdued, sporting olive-green feathers with a hint of yellow on the underside.

While you might spot them in the lowlands of southeastern Mexico, Yellow-throated Euphonias are frequent visitors to our mountain retreat. They’re particularly common throughout Central America, ranging from Belize down to western Panama.

Keep an eye out for these social butterflies! Yellow-throated Euphonias are rarely seen alone. They flit through the trees in small flocks, their constant chirps and whistles adding to the vibrant soundscape of the forest.

Foodies of the Feather World: These euphonias are frugivores, meaning their diet consists mainly of fruits. They’re particularly fond of berries, but will also indulge in flower nectar and the occasional insect.

Listen for their sweet song: The Yellow-throated Euphonia’s song is a high-pitched, whistled sequence of notes. It’s often described as cheerful and melodic, a fitting soundtrack to their sunny disposition.

Birdwatching Tips:

• Early risers have the best chance! Euphonias are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, so grab your binoculars and head out for a nature walk during these times.
• Look for them in the treetops. They favor the upper canopy of the rainforest, flitting from branch to branch as they forage for food.
• Follow the sound! Their chirps and whistles are a good indicator of their presence.

With a little patience and these handy tips, you might just catch a glimpse of this dazzling little songbird during your stay at our Costa Rican retreat. The Yellow-throated Euphonia is a vibrant reminder of the incredible biodiversity that thrives in our lush rainforests.

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

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