For those seeking a vibrant splash of color amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s mountain forests, look no further than the Golden-bellied Flycatcher (Myiodynastes hemichrysus). This resident breeder graces the highlands of our country, particularly here at our mountain retreat, with its presence.

A High-Altitude Home

Unlike some of its flycatcher cousins found in the lowlands, the Golden-bellied Flycatcher prefers the cooler climes. It thrives in the canopy and edges of wet, epiphyte-laden mountain forests, especially those adorned with streams and clearings. So, keep your eyes peeled as you hike through these areas of our retreat – you might just catch a glimpse of this feathered wonder flitting amongst the leaves at elevations between 700 and 1850 meters. In the southern part of its range, sightings have even been recorded as high as 2300 meters!

A Distinctive Look

Standing at around 20 cm tall and weighing a mere 41 grams, the Golden-bellied Flycatcher is a medium-sized songbird. Its most striking feature, as the name suggests, is its bright yellow underparts. This sunny belly contrasts beautifully with its dark facial mask, making it a real standout amongst the mountain greenery. But wait, there’s more! Unlike the Great Kiskadee, a flycatcher sometimes mistaken for the Golden-bellied, this little bird boasts a white moustache stripe instead of a white throat. Additionally, for those with a keen eye, birds from South America and eastern Panama might show olive streaks on their breasts – a subtle regional variation.

A Life in the Trees

The Golden-bellied Flycatcher is a creature of the forest canopy. Here, perched at middle to upper levels, it keeps a watchful eye on its surroundings. True to its flycatcher nature, it’s an expert at catching insects mid-air, making it a valuable part of the mountain ecosystem’s pest control. But its diet isn’t limited to aerial acrobatics – it will also glean insects from vegetation, showcasing its versatility as a hunter.

A Melodious Resident

While the Golden-bellied Flycatcher might not be the most flamboyant dancer in the avian world, it certainly makes its presence known vocally. Listen for its loud, distinctive calls that have been likened to squeaking toys. These vocalizations help it communicate with other members of its species, marking territory and attracting mates.

A Sight to Behold

The Golden-bellied Flycatcher is a delightful resident of Costa Rica’s mountain forests. With its vibrant colors, captivating calls, and important ecological role, it’s a bird sure to leave a lasting impression on any nature enthusiast visiting our mountain retreat. So, as you explore the lush trails and soak in the cool mountain air, keep an eye out for this little burst of sunshine flitting amongst the leaves. You might just be lucky enough to witness the Golden-bellied Flycatcher in all its glory.

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

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