Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, nature unfolds its wonders around every corner. Today, we set our sights on a resident of the cloudforest canopy, a bird with a name that perfectly describes its plumage – the Black Guan.

A Bird of Mystery

The Black Guan (Chamaepetes unicolor) is a member of the Cracidae family, sharing kinship with curassows and chachalacas. But unlike its flamboyant relatives, the Black Guan embraces minimalism. Its feathers are almost entirely black, with a captivating splash of color – a bright blue facial patch that contrasts beautifully with its fiery red eyes. Red legs complete this striking yet understated ensemble.

Endemic Elegance

Black Guans are a true treasure of Costa Rica and western Panama. They are endemic to these regions, meaning you won’t find them anywhere else on Earth. Spotting one is a privilege reserved for those willing to venture into the cooler, mist-shrouded realms of the cloudforest.

Masters of the Mountains

The Black Guan thrives in the mountainous terrain, at elevations ranging from a cool 800 meters (2,600 ft) to a brisk 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). They favor the dense vegetation of the Talamancan montane forest ecozone, particularly steep slopes and areas with a healthy mix of mature and secondary growth.

A Life on High

These large, chicken-like birds (around 24 inches long and weighing over 2 pounds) can be solitary or form pairs and small family groups. They spend their days patrolling both the treetops and the forest floor in search of their favorite food – fruits. Their diet also includes seeds, nuts, and other forest treats.

A Glimpse of Paradise

Black Guans are not the most common sight, but their distinctive calls can often betray their presence before you see them. If you’re fortunate enough to spot one, take a moment to appreciate this emblem of the Costa Rican highlands. Its jet-black plumage, vibrant facial patch, and red accents are a sight to behold, a reminder of the beauty that thrives in the hidden corners of our cloudforest.

Stay Tuned for More Feathered Friends

As you explore the grounds of our retreat, keep your eyes peeled for the Black Guan and other fascinating avian residents. In the coming posts, we’ll be delving deeper into the incredible world of Costa Rican birds, so stay tuned for more feathered friends!

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

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)