While our mountain retreat offers a haven for birds of the rainforest canopy, Costa Rica’s diverse landscape attracts a fascinating cast of feathered visitors from across the globe. Today, we turn our gaze skyward to a long-legged wonder that graces our muddier, wetland shores – the Long-billed Dowitcher.

A Master of Disguise:

Spotting a Long-billed Dowitcher can be a delightful surprise. These medium-sized shorebirds, belonging to the sandpiper family, are masters of disguise. Their plumage transforms depending on the season. During breeding season, their transformation is most dramatic. Imagine a bird with a rich, rufous chest and head, beautifully contrasting with a darker, mottled back. A flash of white on the upper rump, only visible in flight, adds another layer of intrigue.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. In non-breeding attire, Long-billed Dowitchers transform into sleek, grayish birds with a pale belly. This allows them to blend seamlessly with the muddy banks they frequent.

The Sewing Machine of the Shore:

One of the most captivating aspects of watching a Long-billed Dowitcher is its unique feeding style. Nicknamed the “sewing machine” for good reason, this shorebird probes its long, slender bill (twice the length of its head!) rapidly into the mud or sand. This up-and-down motion, reminiscent of a sewing machine needle, helps them unearth hidden treasures – small invertebrates that form the base of their diet.

A Voice Like No Other:

While plumage can be deceiving, the Long-billed Dowitcher’s voice is a dead giveaway. Their high-pitched “keek!” call, sometimes delivered in a series, is distinct from the lower-pitched “tu-tu-tu” of its close relative, the Short-billed Dowitcher.

A Global Traveler:

The Long-billed Dowitcher is a true globetrotter. They breed in the high Arctic tundra, transforming into those stunning rufous marvels. Then, as winter approaches, they embark on a long southward migration, with Costa Rica featuring prominently on their itinerary. Here, they find freshwater wetlands – their preferred stomping grounds – to rest and refuel before continuing their journey further south.

A Bird of Passage at our Costa Rican Retreat:

While the Long-billed Dowitcher isn’t a permanent resident at our mountain retreat, their presence during migration seasons adds another layer of wonder to the vibrant tapestry of life here. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just be lucky enough to spot these fascinating shorebirds as they refuel on their incredible journey.

Keep an eye out for future posts!

As we delve deeper into the avian wonders of Costa Rica, we’ll explore a wider range of birds, from the resplendent quetzals of the rainforest to the colorful toucans that flit through the trees. Stay tuned for your next feathered encounter!

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