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

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