Hotel Rivel

A Regal Resident: The Collared Aracari in the Costa Rican Canopy

Welcome back, nature enthusiasts, to another feathered friend showcase here at your Costa Rican retreat! Today, we turn our gaze upwards, towards the vibrant tapestry of the rainforest canopy. There, flitting amongst the leaves and flashing their technicolor plumage, resides a true jewel of the avian world – the Collared Aracari.

A Toucan by Another Name

The Collared Aracari, sometimes called the Collared araçari, is a member of the toucan family, Ramphastidae. Though closely related to their larger-beaked cousins, aracaris are a distinct group, recognizable by their slightly smaller size and – you guessed it – their spectacular collars!

A Kaleidoscope of Colors

Imagine a bird dipped in a tropical paint palette. The Collared Aracari embodies this image perfectly. Its back boasts a sleek black with a subtle green sheen, while the neck and throat are adorned with a dramatic blackish hue. But the real showstopper lies in the contrasting underparts. A vibrant yellow belly explodes with bold red and black stripes, creating a mesmerizing pattern.

The Beak that Steals the Show

No description of an aracari would be complete without mentioning its most remarkable feature – the beak. The Collared Aracari’s beak, while not quite as colossal as some toucans, is still a sight to behold. Typically whitish-gray or sometimes white at the base, it transitions to a dull reddish-brown towards the tip, with a striking black culmen (upper ridge) and a unique vertical white line adorning the base. This magnificent beak is not just for show, though. It’s a powerful tool used for foraging, manipulating fruits, and even fending off rivals.

A Social Butterfly (or Rather, Bird)

The Collared Aracari is a social bird, rarely venturing out alone. They form lively flocks of 6 to 15 individuals, often consisting of family members. These boisterous groups flit through the rainforest canopy, their loud calls echoing through the trees. Their social nature extends even to their nighttime routine. Up to six adults and fledglings huddle together in cozy woodpecker holes or natural cavities for a good night’s sleep, their tails folded over their backs for extra warmth.

A Feast for the Senses

The Collared Aracari is an omnivore with a diverse diet. Their primary source of sustenance comes from the bountiful fruit offerings of the rainforest. Figs and palms are particular favorites. But these birds aren’t afraid to get a little adventurous. Insects, small reptiles, eggs, and even fledgling birds of other species might find themselves on the menu. Their keen eyesight and powerful beaks make them efficient hunters.

A Sight to Behold

The Collared Aracari, with its dazzling plumage and impressive beak, is a captivating addition to the Costa Rican avifauna. While not exclusive to the Central Valley region, these birds are frequent visitors to the rainforests that surround our mountain retreat. Keep your eyes peeled for a flash of color high in the canopy, and you might be lucky enough to witness this vibrant wonder flitting through the leaves.

So, next time you’re relaxing on your balcony, take a moment to appreciate the symphony of life unfolding around you. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of the Collared Aracari, a true Costa Rican treasure.

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

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