Here at the Costa Rican Retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of life that surrounds us. Today, we turn our gaze to a bird that embodies elegance and subtlety – the Slate-colored Grosbeak (Saltator grossus).

While not as flamboyantly colored as some of our feathered residents, the Slate-colored Grosbeak holds its own kind of captivating beauty.

A Vision in Slate

True to its name, this medium-sized songbird (around 8 inches) is cloaked in a stunning shade of slate gray. This isn’t just any gray though; it’s a rich, smoky hue that seems to shift in the dappled sunlight filtering through the rainforest canopy.

The bird’s elegance is further accentuated by a stark white patch on its throat, creating a sharp contrast against the dark plumage. This striking combination – the cool slate and the bright white – gives the Slate-colored Grosbeak a distinguished air.

A Flash of Red

A pop of color breaks the monochromatic theme – the grosbeak’s thick bill. In males, this bill is a vibrant coral red, adding a touch of fire to the bird’s overall look. Females, while sporting the same slate-colored plumage, have a duller orange bill, making the males the flashier of the sexes.

A Secretive Songster

The Slate-colored Grosbeak prefers the mid-levels of the forest, flitting amongst the branches and dense foliage. This makes them somewhat challenging to spot, but their presence is often announced by their song.

Listen for a sweet, simple whistle, a melody that is both clear and melancholic. It’s a song that perfectly complements the bird’s air of quiet sophistication.

Where to Find the Slate-colored Grosbeak

While the Slate-colored Grosbeak is most commonly found in the Amazon basin, their range extends into Central America, including parts of Costa Rica. Here at the retreat, you might be lucky enough to spot them in the taller trees bordering the property, especially near the forest’s edge.

A Glimpse of Tranquility

The Slate-colored Grosbeak, with its understated beauty and gentle song, is a reminder that true elegance can be found in simplicity. As you explore the verdant trails around our retreat, keep an eye out for this captivating songbird. A glimpse of the Slate-colored Grosbeak flitting through the trees is a moment of tranquility you won’t soon forget.

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

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