Our mountain retreat here in Costa Rica offers a symphony of birdsong each morning. Today, we turn our attention to a rather common, yet undeniably handsome resident, the Red-billed Pigeon (Patagioenas flavirostris).
A Sizable Sight
This isn’t your average city park pigeon. The Red-billed Pigeon is a robust bird, boasting a size comparable to Europe’s Common Wood Pigeon. Look for a body and wings cloaked in a cool, bluish-gray. A touch of elegance is added by a maroon wash across the neck and shoulders.
The Beak Tells All
As the name suggests, the Red-billed Pigeon’s most striking feature is its bill. A vibrant red dominates, tipped with a touch of pale yellow. This contrasting beak is a surefire way to distinguish the Red-billed Pigeon from other pigeons you might encounter.
Habitat Hues
While you might spot them soaring over the mountains surrounding our retreat, Red-billed Pigeons tend to prefer drier habitats. Thankfully, Costa Rica offers a diverse landscape, and these pigeons thrive throughout the northern and central regions, particularly in lowlands and foothills. Head towards the eastern and southern lowlands, however, and you’re more likely to encounter the Pale-vented Pigeon, a close relative.
A Shy Serenade
Red-billed Pigeons are known for their secretive nature. Don’t be surprised if you hear them before you see them. Their cooing call, a low-pitched “whoo-whoo-whoo,” often precedes their grand entrance. When they do appear, they’re usually perched conspicuously in pairs or small flocks. Favorite spots include open forests, patchy farmlands, and even the occasional mangrove.
Keeping an Eye Out
While they might be a bit shy, Red-billed Pigeons are fairly common throughout their range. Here are some key features to keep an eye out for:
- Large size (similar to a Common Wood Pigeon)
- Bluish-gray body and wings
- Maroon neck and shoulders
- Red bill with a pale yellow tip
- Dark tail and undertail coverts (helpful for differentiating them from other pigeons)
A Costa Rican Character
The Red-billed Pigeon adds a touch of elegance and intrigue to the Costa Rican birding experience. With a bit of patience and these helpful pointers, you might just catch a glimpse (and hear the lovely coo) of this regal resident during your stay at our mountain retreat.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
