High in the mountains of Costa Rica, where the air is crisp and the views are endless, we at the retreat are fortunate to witness a stunning array of avian visitors. Today, we turn our gaze to a rather uncommon guest, the Southern Martin (Progne elegans).

While not native to Costa Rica, this sleek swallow has made a few surprise appearances in recent years. The first documented sighting, in 2022, sent ripples of excitement through the birding community. This swallow, typically found in South America ranging from Argentina to Colombia, became the 924th confirmed bird species in Costa Rica!

A Look at the Southern Martin

The Southern Martin is a sight to behold. With a glossy blue-black back and head, contrasting sharply with a pure white breast and belly, this swallow exudes elegance. Both sexes share this striking plumage, although females may have a slightly duller sheen. Their forked tail adds a touch of dynamism as they flit through the air.

These birds are known for their acrobatic aerial displays. They are tireless insectivores, catching their prey mid-flight with impressive agility. Watch closely, and you might see them swooping and diving, their wings flashing in the sunlight as they snatch insects on the wing.

A Rare Encounter in the Mountains

The Southern Martin’s presence in Costa Rica is a testament to the ever-evolving distribution patterns of birds. While their typical range lies further south, it’s possible that climate change or other factors are influencing their behavior. Here in the mountains, with open areas and abundant flying insects, they may find suitable foraging grounds.

Spotting a Southern Martin at our retreat is a rare treat. However, their close relative, the Brown-chested Martin (Progne tapera), has also been sighted historically in Costa Rica, though no confirmed sightings have been reported in recent decades.

Keeping an Eye on the Skies

While the Southern Martin’s status in Costa Rica remains uncertain, their occasional appearances add a touch of wonder to birdwatching in our mountain haven. Our staff naturalists are always on the lookout for new feathered friends, and we encourage our guests to keep their eyes peeled for this striking swallow.

So, the next time you visit our mountain retreat, take a moment to gaze skyward. You might just be lucky enough to witness the Southern Martin, a rare visitor gracing our mountain skies with its elegance and aerial acrobatics.

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

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