Here at Hotel Rivel, nature’s spectacle unfolds right outside your doorstep. As you venture into the verdant embrace of our Costa Rican mountains, keep your eyes peeled for a flash of red – you might just encounter the vibrant Red-crowned Ant-Tanager!
A Bird of Duality
The Red-crowned Ant-Tanager (Habia rubica) is a captivating member of the avian community gracing our rainforests. This medium-sized songbird, measuring around 7 inches in length, exhibits a fascinating sexual dimorphism.
The male Red-crowned Ant-Tanager is a sight to behold. He dons a plumage of dull reddish-brown, which intensifies to a fiery red across his throat and breast. But the true crown jewel is undoubtedly his namesake – a raised scarlet crest that borders on black. When the male feels threatened or excited, this crest stands tall, adding a touch of drama to his appearance.
The female Red-crowned Ant-Tanager, however, takes a more subdued approach. Her attire is a beautiful blend of yellowish-brown, with a contrasting yellow throat and a subtle yellow-buff crown stripe.
A Follower of Armies
Despite their name, Red-crowned Ant-Tanagers aren’t exclusive ant-eaters. They’re actually opportunistic insectivores, feasting on a variety of insects they glean from the forest understory. But their association with ants comes from a unique strategy.
The Red-crowned Ant-Tanager has been known to follow swarms of army ants, capitalizing on the commotion these relentless predators create. As the army ants flush out hidden insects from the forest floor, the Red-crowned Ant-Tanager swoops in for an easy meal – a testament to their resourcefulness!
A Forest Symphony
The Red-crowned Ant-Tanager isn’t just visually striking; it’s a talented vocalist as well. Their calls are a delightful combination of a sharp rattle followed by a melodic “pee-pee-pee” sequence. These vocalizations often fill the air, particularly in the understory where they prefer to forage.
A Shy But Common Resident
While the Red-crowned Ant-Tanager isn’t exactly rare, it can be a bit challenging to spot due to its preference for the lower forest levels. But with a keen eye and a bit of patience, you might catch a glimpse of this feathered wonder flitting amongst the ferns and shrubs.
Keeping an Eye Out
The next time you’re exploring the lush rainforests surrounding Hotel Rivel, keep an eye out for the Red-crowned Ant-Tanager. With its vibrant plumage and intriguing behavior, this little songbird is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Beyond the Blog
For a truly unforgettable encounter with the Red-crowned Ant-Tanager, be sure to join our guided birdwatching tours led by our expert naturalists. They’ll help you identify this fascinating bird and many others, making your Costa Rican adventure even more enriching.
So come, explore the wonders of the rainforest with Hotel Rivel, and discover the captivating lives of these feathered jewels!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)