High in the mountains of Costa Rica, our secluded retreat offers tranquility and breathtaking views. But did you know that Costa Rica boasts an incredible diversity of birdlife too? Even for a brief period each year, our shores welcome a special visitor – the Pectoral Sandpiper.
This medium-sized shorebird, with a name that perfectly describes its most distinctive feature, isn’t a permanent resident. It graces our Pacific and Caribbean coasts during its remarkable migration journey. So, if you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the winter months (November to April), keep your eyes peeled for this fascinating feathered traveler.
A Master of Markings
The Pectoral Sandpiper is a visual treat. While its back may appear brown or gray depending on the season, its underparts are where the magic happens. Unlike its smaller sandpiper cousins, the Pectoral Sandpiper boasts a boldly patterned breast. Imagine a neat, brown, speckled vest that ends abruptly at a bright white belly. This sharp contrast is what gives the bird its name – truly a pectoral masterpiece!
Spotting the Pectoral Sandpiper
While the Pectoral Sandpiper might grace both coasts, it prefers mudflats, estuaries, and shallow wetlands. So, if you’re venturing out on a coastal adventure during their migratory season, here are some tips for spotting them:
- Look for the size: Compared to smaller sandpipers, the Pectoral Sandpiper has a stockier build and a longer, slightly downcurved bill.
- Observe their movement: These shorebirds are constantly on the move, probing the mudflats with their bills for their favorite meal – small invertebrates.
- Listen for their calls: Their calls are described as high-pitched whistles or short, buzzy trills.
A Glimpse into a Long Journey
The Pectoral Sandpiper’s visit to Costa Rica is just a pitstop on an epic migration journey. They breed in the far north, across the vast Arctic tundra of Alaska and Canada. Come winter, they embark on a long southward flight, with some traveling all the way to South America and Oceania!
Spotting a Pectoral Sandpiper here in Costa Rica is a wonderful reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet. These incredible birds endure a remarkable journey, and for a short while, they grace our shores with their unique beauty. So, the next time you’re on the coast during the winter months, keep an eye out for the Pectoral Sandpiper. A sighting of this feathered adventurer is sure to be a memorable highlight of your Costa Rican experience.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
