Our mountain retreat here in Costa Rica offers not only stunning vistas and tranquil escapes, but also the opportunity to encounter a dazzling array of birdlife. Today, we turn our binoculars to a delightful resident, the aptly named Cinnamon Becard.
A Spicy Sight
Living up to its name, the Cinnamon Becard boasts a plumage that evokes the warmth of cinnamon. Adults are a rich rufous above, with a lighter, more cinnamon-toned throat and breast. This reddish-brown hue is offset by a dark line extending from the bill to the eye, and a dark gray bill and legs.
But unlike many bird species, the males and females look quite similar. You might see a slight difference in younger birds, who tend to be brighter above and paler overall. There are also subtle variations depending on location. Northern birds have a pale supercilium and a dusky line from the bill to the eye, while those west of the Andes show a stronger contrast with a darker loral line.
A Mountain Melody
The Cinnamon Becard is a welcome addition to the mountain chorus. Their calls are a mix of high, thin whistles and a distinctive descending “twee twee-tee tee” trill. Keep your ears peeled as you explore the trails – you might just catch their melody flitting through the trees.
A Flexible Friend
While the mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for the Cinnamon Becard, they’re not the only place you can find them in Costa Rica. This adaptable bird thrives in a variety of habitats, from forest borders and clearings to cultivated areas like farms and gardens. They’re comfortable at a wide range of altitudes, from sea level up to a cool 5,000 feet.
A Life in the Trees
The Cinnamon Becard is an insectivore at heart, flitting among the branches to snatch up insects and spiders. They’ll also occasionally add a bit of fruit to their diet for a sweet treat.
Nesting takes place high in the trees, with the female constructing a cozy home and incubating the clutch of 3-4 eggs for 18-20 days. The male steps up as a devoted dad, helping to feed the chicks after they hatch.
A Common Sight, Uncommon Delight
The Cinnamon Becard is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN, meaning their populations are stable. While not particularly rare, spotting one of these charming birds flitting through the trees is always a delightful experience.
So, next time you’re relaxing on your balcony at our mountain retreat, keep an eye out for a flash of cinnamon. You might just be lucky enough to meet the captivating Cinnamon Becard!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
