While the mountains of our Costa Rican retreat offer a haven for an incredible diversity of birds, our birding adventures extend far beyond the cloud forests. Today, we set our sights on a stunning visitor gracing our country’s coastlines – the American Avocet (Recurvirostra americana).

A Striking Silhouette

Imagine wading through shallow waters, a black and white vision of grace. The American Avocet embodies elegance. Standing 16-20 inches tall, it boasts a sleek body adorned with contrasting black and white plumage. The back is a crisp black, while the underbelly gleams a pearly white. But the true showstopper is the bill – long, slender, and distinctly upcurving, it adds a touch of the unexpected to this beautiful bird.

Look closely, and you might notice subtle variations in plumage depending on the season. During breeding season, the American Avocet dons a striking rusty cap that extends down its neck, adding a pop of color to its already dramatic appearance. In winter, the head and neck transform into a cool grayish white, making it even easier to distinguish from its close relative, the Black-necked Stilt (which, as the name suggests, sports a black neck all year round).

A Master of Aquatic Maneuvers

The American Avocet isn’t just stunning; it’s a master of its aquatic environment. Its long, slender legs, a pale blue-grey in color (earning it the nickname “blue shanks”), allow it to wade confidently through shallow waters. But its secret weapon is its remarkable bill. With a feeding method known as “sweep-tapping,” the Avocet swings its upturned bill from side to side, creating a current that stirs up tiny aquatic creatures hidden beneath the surface. It then snaps its bill shut, filtering out a mouthful of delicious crustaceans and insects.

Watching a flock of American Avocets feeding in unison is a mesmerizing sight. Their bodies move in perfect rhythm, bills swishing back and forth, creating a ripple effect across the water’s surface. It’s a testament to their remarkable adaptation and a display of pure avian elegance.

A Temporary Costa Rican Resident

The American Avocet is a migratory bird, spending its summers breeding in the temperate regions of North America. However, come winter, they embark on a southerly journey, seeking warmer climates with abundant food sources. This is when we’re lucky enough to witness them grace the coastlines of Costa Rica, particularly along the Pacific shores and in the Gulf of Nicoya.

While not as common as some of our resident birds, spotting an American Avocet is a treat for any bird enthusiast. Their striking appearance and unique feeding technique make them an unforgettable addition to any Costa Rican birding adventure.

Beyond the Mountains: Birding in Costa Rica

While our mountain retreat offers a tranquil escape, Costa Rica’s diverse habitats provide a wealth of birding opportunities. From the lowland rainforests teeming with colorful toucans and macaws to the mangrove swamps echoing with the calls of herons, there’s a birding paradise waiting to be explored in every corner of this beautiful country.

So, the next time you visit our retreat, remember to pack your binoculars! Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Costa Rica’s incredible avian diversity is sure to leave you breathless. Stay tuned as we continue our exploration of the feathered jewels that call Costa Rica home!

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