As you delve deeper into the verdant embrace of our mountain retreat here in Costa Rica, prepare to be enchanted by a chorus of birdsong unlike any other. One of the feathered residents you might encounter flitting amongst the undergrowth is the Costa Rican Brushfinch, a captivating little songbird with a distinctive charm.

A Forest Denizen:

Classified as a passerine bird belonging to the Passerellidae family, the Costa Rican Brushfinch (Arremon costaricensis) is a close relative of sparrows. This shy inhabitant thrives in the understory of humid forests, particularly favouring edges where sunlight filters through the canopy. Here, at our mountain retreat, you’ll find them at elevations ranging from 300 to 1200 meters.

Spotting a Brushfinch:

A sparrow-sized songbird, the Costa Rican Brushfinch is a treat for the observant birder. Dressed in a verdant green cloak across its back, it complements this with a crisp grey eyebrow and a stark black cheek patch. Look for a flash of white at its throat, adding a touch of elegance to its otherwise understated attire. Unlike its close relative, the Black-striped Sparrow, the Costa Rican Brushfinch boasts a completely black cheek, not just a black eyeline. You’ll also notice the absence of a rufous crown, differentiating it from the Chestnut-capped Brushfinch.

A Life on the Forest Floor:

The Costa Rican Brushfinch is a ground-foraging bird, spending most of its time hopping and scratching through the leaf litter on the forest floor. Here, it diligently searches for a tasty meal of insects, seeds, and fallen fruit. Often found in pairs, these little brush-dwellers are more likely heard than seen. But for the patient observer, a glimpse of their busy activity amongst the fallen leaves can be a rewarding experience.

A Song Unheard:

The Costa Rican Brushfinch, along with its close relatives, the Black-headed Brushfinch, was once considered a subspecies of the Stripe-headed Brushfinch. However, through meticulous study of their vocalizations, plumage patterns, and genetic makeup, scientists have classified them as distinct species. This distinction is particularly evident in their songs, which differ significantly from the Stripe-headed Brushfinch. The next time you’re exploring the forest floor at our retreat, keep an ear out for the unique song of the Costa Rican Brushfinch – a delightful addition to the rich tapestry of bird calls that fill the mountain air.

A Brush with Beauty:

The Costa Rican Brushfinch might not be the most flamboyant bird in our rainforests, but its understated elegance and secretive nature add a touch of intrigue to your birding adventures. So, as you embark on nature walks during your stay at our retreat, keep a watchful eye on the forest floor. With a bit of patience, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this little gem, a flash of green and grey amidst the verdant embrace of the Costa Rican mountains.

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