While our mountain retreat offers stunning highland birding opportunities, Costa Rica’s diverse landscape extends far beyond the lush greenery. Today, we set our sights on the coast, specifically the fascinating Baird’s Sandpiper, a migratory visitor gracing our Pacific and Caribbean shores.

A Champion Traveler:

The Baird’s Sandpiper is a true globetrotter. These small shorebirds breed in the far north, across the Arctic tundra stretching from Siberia to Greenland. Come winter, they embark on an incredible journey, flying thousands of kilometers to reach their southern wintering grounds in South America. While Costa Rica isn’t their final destination, many Baird’s Sandpipers choose our Pacific and Caribbean coasts as crucial stopover points to rest and refuel before continuing their southward migration.

Spotting a Baird’s Sandpiper:

These sandpipers are relatively small, measuring just around 7 inches in length. Their overall coloring is a subtle blend of buff and brown on the upper body, with a lighter, buff underside. Look for their slender bodies with short, dark legs and a slightly drooping black bill. In flight, their wingtips extend beyond their tail, creating a distinctive silhouette.

Habitat Preferences:

While Baird’s Sandpipers might not venture far inland, like the ones you can see from our mountain retreat, they’re not averse to exploring a variety of coastal habitats during their stopover in Costa Rica. You might find them on mudflats, exposed sandbars, or even short-grass pastures near the coast. They’re most active during the day, flitting about with a characteristic bobbing motion as they probe for food in the shallow water or soft mud.

A Master of Deception:

Baird’s Sandpipers are masters of camouflage. Their mottled brown and buff feathers blend beautifully with the coastal environments they frequent, making them difficult to spot unless they’re moving. Their cryptic coloration serves as a vital defense mechanism against predators such as hawks and falcons.

A Treat for the Twitchers:

If you’re an avid birdwatcher (or “birder” as we affectionately call them), spotting a Baird’s Sandpiper during its migratory stopover in Costa Rica is a delightful treat. Their delicate appearance, coupled with their impressive migratory journey, makes them a fascinating addition to any Costa Rican birding list.

While these elegant travelers might not grace our mountain retreat, they’re a vital part of Costa Rica’s rich avian tapestry. The next time you find yourself on the coast, keep an eye out for the Baird’s Sandpiper, a champion traveler gracing our shores with its fleeting presence.

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