High in the lush embrace of the Costa Rican mountains, a vibrant hum fills the air. It’s the Long-billed Starthroat, a hummingbird that lives up to its name in every way. If you’re lucky enough to spot this dazzling creature flitting amongst the leaves during your stay at our mountain retreat, prepare to be mesmerized by its beauty and agility.

A Crown Fit for Royalty

The male Long-billed Starthroat is a sight to behold. Adorning its head is a shimmering crown of the most captivating light blue, like a fragment of the Costa Rican sky crystallized into a feather. This crown is a stark contrast to its dark upperparts, creating a dramatic two-toned effect.

A Throat that Rivals the Stars

But the true showstopper lies on the male’s throat. Here, a patch of feathers transforms into a glowing beacon of magenta-purple, catching the sunlight and shimmering like a constellation come to life. This iridescent patch, aptly named a “starthroat,” is what gives this hummingbird its unforgettable name.

Living Up to the Long Bill

As the name suggests, the Long-billed Starthroat boasts an impressive bill. This long, slender instrument is perfectly adapted for reaching deep into flowers and extracting nectar, the hummingbird’s primary fuel source. The bill’s length, coupled with its hovering ability, allows the Long-billed Starthroat to access nectar-rich flowers that other hummingbirds might struggle with.

A Master of the Canopy

Unlike some hummingbirds that frequent gardens and backyards, the Long-billed Starthroat prefers the lofty realm of the forest canopy. Here, amongst the leaves and branches, it flits and darts with incredible agility, its wings beating so rapidly they become a blur. This hummingbird is a true aerial acrobat, performing dazzling maneuvers as it searches for sustenance.

A Glimpse of Paradise

While the Long-billed Starthroat isn’t the most common hummingbird you might encounter in Costa Rica, spotting one during your stay at our mountain retreat is a truly magical experience. It’s a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that thrives in our lush rainforests and a testament to the beauty that surrounds us.

Keep your eyes peeled for this dazzling jewel of the Costa Rican mountains. The Long-billed Starthroat might just be the highlight of your birding adventure!

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