Here at Hotel Rivel, nature’s wonders surround us. From the towering trees of the rainforest canopy to the vibrant creatures flitting through the undergrowth, every day brings a new opportunity to discover the remarkable biodiversity of Costa Rica. Today, we turn our binoculars to a resident songbird with a striking appearance – the Black-faced Grosbeak.
A Social Butterfly (Almost)
Unlike its solitary cousin, the Black-headed Grosbeak found in North America, the Black-faced Grosbeak thrives in social settings. These cheerful birds are often seen in small flocks, sometimes numbering up to 50 individuals, flitting through the middle and upper levels of the rainforest. Their movements can be quite energetic, with the group constantly chirping and calling to each other, creating a lively atmosphere in the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves.
A Feast for the Eyes
The Black-faced Grosbeak is a visual treat. While not as flamboyant as some tropical birds, their plumage offers a delightful combination of subtle and striking colors. Unlike their name suggests, only the face is black. This dark mask makes the vibrant mustard yellow of their head, neck, and breast pop. The back, wings, and tail are a cool olive green, contrasting beautifully with the warm yellow. Their grey rump and belly add a final touch of elegance to their overall look.
A Song of the Rainforest
The Black-faced Grosbeak’s melody is as cheerful as its personality. Their song is a delightful whistled sequence, often described as a “cher chi weet, cher chir weet, cher chi chuweet.” This melodic tune adds to the symphony of bird calls that fills the Costa Rican rainforest.
A Seed-Spreading Symphony
As their thick, heavy bills suggest, Black-faced Grosbeaks are primarily seed eaters. They play a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem by dispersing seeds as they move from tree to tree. These fallen seeds germinate, helping to maintain the lush growth of the rainforest.
Spotting a Black-faced Grosbeak at Hotel Rivel
Black-faced Grosbeaks are relatively common in the humid evergreen forests and foothills of Costa Rica. While they are not shy birds, they can be difficult to spot due to their preference for the middle and upper levels of the rainforest canopy. However, their bright yellow plumage and cheerful calls often give them away.
Our expert birding guides at Hotel Rivel are keen to help you discover the Black-faced Grosbeak and the many other feathered wonders of Costa Rica. With their knowledge of the local birdlife and their expertise in spotting even the most elusive species, they can help you add another checkmark to your birding list!
So, keep your eyes peeled (and ears perked) as you explore the rainforest trails at Hotel Rivel. You might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this social songbird, a splash of sunshine amidst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican rainforest.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)