Our mountain retreat here in Costa Rica offers stunning views, refreshing breezes, and an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of birdlife. Today, we turn our binoculars to a resident of the higher elevations – the Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher, a captivating little bird with a touch of sunshine in its step.

A Sight to Behold

Imagine a bird with a plump, almost rotund body. Now, picture it clad in a sleek black tuxedo, with a splash of sunshine yellow adorning its flanks and rump. That’s the Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher for you – a striking contrast that makes it a delightful addition to the mountain cloud forest.

The males are the true showstoppers. Their black extends over the head, back, and tail, creating a dramatic base for the vibrant yellow. Their chests boast a subtle olive hue, transitioning to a cool grey belly. The females, while lacking the bold blacks, are no less beautiful. They sport a chic olive outfit with a contrasting black cap, their yellow flanks adding a touch of warmth.

A Life in the Mountains

Keep your eyes peeled for these birds flitting through the branches of the montane forest canopy. Unlike their fast-paced flycatcher cousins, the Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher is a rather leisurely fellow. You might spot it perched on a branch, patiently observing its surroundings, or taking short, deliberate flights between trees.

These little bundles of energy are primarily fruit-eaters. They have a particular fondness for the berries and small fruits that grow abundantly in the mountain forests. So, if you find a fruiting tree, it might just attract a Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher or two, offering you a chance to witness them in all their glory.

A Bird of Mystery

The Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher holds a special place in the avian world. While classified as a silky-flycatcher, its closest relatives are far-flung – the waxwings of North America and Asia. This unique evolutionary position makes it a bird of great interest to researchers, adding to the intrigue surrounding this little resident of the Costa Rican highlands.

Spotting Your Own Silky Sunshine

While the Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher has a limited range in Costa Rica, restricted to the mountain forests of the Cordillera Central and the Talamancas, here at our mountain retreat, you have a good chance of encountering this delightful bird.

Keep an eye out for their plump forms and the flash of yellow as they flit through the trees. Their leisurely pace and preference for perching make them easier to observe compared to some of their more frenetic bird neighbors.

So, on your next visit to our mountain retreat, don’t forget to pack your binoculars and a healthy dose of birdwatching enthusiasm. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a sighting of the Black-and-Yellow Silky-Flycatcher, a splash of sunshine amidst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains.

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