Here at Hotel Rivel, nature unveils itself in all its glory. From the vibrant plumage of the toucan to the thunderous call of the howler monkey, our secluded mountain setting offers a symphony of sights and sounds for the avid explorer. Today, we turn our gaze to a rather uncommon visitor, the Canvasback duck (Aythya valisineria).

The Canvasback is a stunning diving duck, easily recognizable by its sleek, black body contrasted by a chestnut head and neck. Males boast a bright red bill, while females have a more subdued brown one. These medium-sized ducks are primarily found in North America, with their breeding grounds concentrated in the prairies of Canada and the northern United States.

While not a permanent resident of Costa Rica, the occasional Canvasback makes a surprise appearance on our tranquil lakes and waterways. In fact, the first documented sighting of a Canvasback in Costa Rica occurred in 2011 at the man-made lake near Ujarras, a testament to how habitat changes can influence bird distribution.

These impressive divers are adept at foraging underwater, feeding primarily on aquatic plants and invertebrates. Their powerful wings propel them across vast distances, making them migratory champions. Their wintering grounds stretch from the southern United States down to Mexico, with a very rare few venturing as far south as Costa Rica.

Spotting a Canvasback in Costa Rica is a truly special experience. If you’re fortunate enough to encounter one during your stay at Hotel Rivel, keep an eye out for these key features:

• Black body: The most striking aspect of the Canvasback is its sleek, black plumage.
• Contrasting head: Males sport a rich chestnut head and neck, while females have a browner head.
• Bright bill: Males showcase a vibrant red bill, whereas females have a duller brown one.
• Diving behavior: Watch for the Canvasback disappearing underwater in search of food.

While the Canvasback isn’t a common sight at Hotel Rivel, its occasional appearance adds a touch of wonder to the birding experience here. Our commitment to conservation and the preservation of natural habitats allows these rare visitors to find a temporary haven in the heart of Costa Rica’s mountains.

Have you ever encountered a Canvasback in its unexpected travels? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Stay tuned for our next blog post as we explore another feathered wonder of Costa Rica!

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

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