High in the Costa Rican mountains, where the air is crisp and the emerald greens stretch as far as the eye can see, you might catch a flit of bright yellow flitting through the trees. This vibrant burst of sunshine is none other than the Yellow-crowned Euphonia, a tiny songbird that brings a touch of the tropics to our mountain retreat.

While not the most flamboyant bird you’ll encounter here, the Yellow-crowned Euphonia is a delightful resident, easily spotted in the lush foliage surrounding your cabin.

A flash of color:

The male Yellow-crowned Euphonia is a sight to behold. He sports a brilliant yellow crown that stretches from his forehead to his neck, a stark contrast to his deep blue throat and upperparts. His belly is a cheerful sunshine yellow, making him a beacon of color amidst the mountain greenery. The female Euphonia, though lacking the striking crown of her mate, is no less beautiful. She dons a coat of yellowish olive on her back, with a dull yellow underside.

A social butterfly (or Euphonia):

These tiny songbirds are rarely seen alone. They flit through the trees in small flocks, their constant chirps and whistles filling the mountain air with a joyful melody. Their name, in fact, comes from their distinctive call, a melodic “beem-beem” that has earned them the local nickname “Bim-Bim.”

These social butterflies are a joy to watch as they flit from branch to branch, their tiny beaks constantly busy picking at insects and fruit. They’re particularly fond of mistletoe berries, and their presence is often an indicator of these fascinating parasitic plants clinging to the trees.

A mountain home:

The Yellow-crowned Euphonia is a true Central American resident, gracing Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama with its presence. They thrive in a variety of habitats, from the lush rainforests of the lowlands to the drier mountain forests where you’ll find our retreat nestled.

While not migratory, they may move around depending on food availability, and their cheerful presence is a welcome sight throughout the year at our mountain haven.

A constant companion:

As you sip your morning coffee on your cabin porch, or enjoy a leisurely hike through the mountain trails, keep an eye out for the flitting form of the Yellow-crowned Euphonia. Their bright colors and cheerful calls are a constant reminder of the vibrant life that thrives in the Costa Rican mountains.

So, the next time you’re at our retreat, take a moment to appreciate these tiny splashes of sunshine. The Yellow-crowned Euphonia might be small, but they bring a touch of joy and beauty to the mountain paradise that is our home.

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

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