High in the canopy of Costa Rica’s rainforests, a flash of emerald green catches your eye. It’s the Great Jacamar, a dazzling bird with a secretive nature. As a guest at our mountain retreat, you have the chance to spot this elusive resident of the upper forest levels. But keep your eyes peeled, for the Great Jacamar is a true master of camouflage.
A Glimmering Gem
The Great Jacamar is the largest member of its jacamar family in Costa Rica. At about 12 inches long, it’s roughly the size of a robin. Its most striking feature is its iridescent green plumage, which shimmers like a jewel in the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. This green sheen covers its back, wings, and crown, making it blend seamlessly with the rainforest foliage.
A Touch of Orange and a Bicolored Beak
Adding a touch of vibrancy is the Great Jacamar’s rusty orange belly, a fiery contrast to its emerald upperparts. The short, thick bill is another distinguishing characteristic. Unlike most jacamars with long, slender beaks, the Great Jacamar’s bill is stout and black, resembling a miniature crow’s beak. Interestingly, there’s a subtle difference in coloration between males and females. Males have an entirely green throat, while females sport a flash of orange on their throats, mirroring their bellies.
A Secretive Perch
The Great Jacamar is an uncommon sight, even in the dense rainforests it calls home. These birds prefer the solitude of the middle to upper canopy, rarely venturing down to the forest floor. Their preferred perches are often on exposed branches, where they can survey their territory for prey. Patient observers might be rewarded with a glimpse of the Great Jacamar darting out to snatch a passing insect, its thick bill snapping shut with impressive speed.
A Nest Built on Borrowed Time
The Great Jacamar’s nesting habits are quite fascinating. Unlike building their own nests, these birds rely on the ingenuity of termites. They excavate a chamber within an existing arboreal termite mound, creating a safe haven for their clutch of one to four white eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks after they hatch.
A Sight to Behold
Spotting a Great Jacamar in the wild is a truly rewarding experience. Their dazzling plumage, secretive nature, and unique nesting habits make them a wonder of the Costa Rican rainforest. While patience is key, the chance encounter with this emerald jewel is sure to be a highlight of your retreat experience in the mountains of Costa Rica.
Keep an eye out for the Great Jacamar during your stay, and if you’re lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of this rainforest gem!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
