High in the Costa Rican mountains, amidst the emerald embrace of the cloud forests, flits a tiny hunter with a vibrant secret. This is the Yellowish Flycatcher, a resident gracing the highlands from the southern reaches of Mexico all the way down to western Panama. Here, at our mountain retreat, you have a delightful chance to encounter this little bird with a big personality.

Standing at a mere 4.9 inches tall, the Yellowish Flycatcher might be easy to miss. But its plumage offers a captivating spectacle. Its upper body is a beautiful olive-green, a perfect camouflage against the lush foliage. Look closer, and you’ll see a hint of sunshine peek through – its underparts boast a warm yellow wash, with a touch of ochre gracing its breast.

But the true eye-catcher is the face. The Yellowish Flycatcher has a striking white eye ring, which broadens into a small triangle behind the eye, as if nature itself couldn’t resist adding a touch of flair.

This little flycatcher isn’t all about looks, though. It’s a tireless hunter, flitting from perch to perch within the dense forest. Keep an eye out for its characteristic behavior – perched on a low or middle branch, it will often flick its tail upwards in a quick, nervous motion. This might be your cue to look closer, for it’s likely about to launch itself in a daring aerial sally to snatch an unsuspecting insect in mid-air.

While the Yellowish Flycatcher can be found at all levels of the forest, it seems particularly fond of the edges. So, as you explore the trails around our retreat, take a moment to pay attention to the borders between the towering trees and the understory. That’s where you might spot this little wonder, perched and watchful, its head turning with a curious flick as it surveys its domain.

The Yellowish Flycatcher’s song is another delightful discovery. Unlike its close relative, the migrant Yellow-bellied Flycatcher you might see in the lowlands, the Yellowish Flycatcher boasts a very high-pitched call and song. Listen for these short, emphatic phrases – a perfect complement to the bird’s energetic personality.

While the Yellowish Flycatcher might not be the flashiest bird in the Costa Rican highlands, its charm lies in its subtle beauty, active lifestyle, and unique vocalizations. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just find yourself captivated by this little hunter with a heart full of sunshine.

Keep an eye out for our next blog post, where we’ll delve into the fascinating world of another feathered resident of the Costa Rican mountains!

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

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)