Here at Hotel Rivel, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains, we’re surrounded by a vibrant tapestry of life. Among the fluttering jewels that grace our trees is the Hepatic Tanager, a stunning songbird with a unique story.
A Flash of Fire in the Pines
The Hepatic Tanager, aptly named for the male’s rich, liver-red plumage, is a medium-sized songbird (up to 8 inches long) that frequents the mountainous regions of Costa Rica. While not as showy as its close relative, the Summer Tanager, the Hepatic Tanager holds its own charm.
The male Hepatic Tanager is a sight to behold. His upper body is awash in a dusty, grayish red, like a flame tempered by mountain mist. This fiery hue extends below, though slightly brighter, and is contrasted by a grayish ear patch. The female Hepatic Tanager is a beautiful study in contrasting tones. Her upper parts are bathed in a soft olive yellow, while her underbelly is a lighter shade of the same hue. Both sexes share a dark beak and legs, adding a touch of sharpness to their overall look.
A Song That Carries Through the Pines
The Hepatic Tanager is a gifted vocalist. Its song, a sweet, three-to-four-second melody, carries beautifully through the open pine and pine-oak forests it calls home. Listeners have likened it to the caroling of a thrush or the melodic whispers of a Black-capped Cardinal. While the song is the most common vocalization, the Hepatic Tanager also has a short, clipped “tchup” call and a soft, almost scream-like “wenk” it uses in flight.
A Family Affair
The Hepatic Tanager is a social butterfly, often seen foraging in pairs or small family groups. They’re meticulous insectivores, hopping slowly through the trees and shrubs, meticulously examining leaves and branches for hidden treats. They’ll also snatch insects in mid-air, showcasing surprising agility for their stocky build.
The nesting habits of the Hepatic Tanager here at Hotel Rivel are a sight to behold. They construct beautiful cup-shaped nests in the open branches of pine and oak trees. The female lays two to four eggs, which are incubated for about two weeks. Both parents take turns diligently feeding the chicks until they fledge at around 12-14 days old.
A Species on the Move
The Hepatic Tanager boasts an impressive range. It breeds from the southwestern United States all the way down to Argentina! Interestingly, the Hepatic Tanager has been expanding its range northward since the 1960s, with sightings becoming more frequent in Costa Rica. This makes a stay at Hotel Rivel an even more unique opportunity to witness this fascinating songbird.
Spotting the Hepatic Tanager at Hotel Rivel
The best time to spot the Hepatic Tanager is during the breeding season, from March to August. Keep your eyes peeled for flashes of red flitting through the pine boughs, and listen for their beautiful songs echoing through the mountains. Our experienced naturalists at Hotel Rivel can guide you to the best birding spots on the property and help you identify this vibrant resident of our mountain paradise.
So, come explore the wonders of the Costa Rican mountains with Hotel Rivel. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of the Hepatic Tanager, a fiery songbird that adds another layer of magic to our extraordinary natural sanctuary.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
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