Here at the Costa Rican Retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we wake each morning to a chorus unlike any other. Today, we turn our gaze to a vibrant resident of the upper canopy, the aptly named Black-headed Saltator (Saltator atriceps).

A Striking Songbird

This medium-sized songbird, averaging 24 cm (9.4 inches) in length, is a feast for the eyes. Adults are adorned with a dramatic contrast of colors. Their slate-grey head, almost black in certain lights, is offset by a bright white supercilium, a distinctive eyebrow-like stripe. The upperparts dazzle in a rich yellowish-green, while the underparts are a pale, cool grey. A crisp white throat patch, edged with black, adds another touch of elegance.

But the Black-headed Saltator isn’t all looks. Their thick, convex bill hints at their dietary preferences, and their strong legs equip them for navigating the dense foliage of the mountain forests.

A Life in the Trees

These birds are most commonly found in humid tropical lowlands, particularly at forest edges, plantations, and semi-open areas with trees and hedges. If you’re exploring these habitats during your stay, keep an ear out for their presence. They’re rarely seen alone, but rather in noisy little groups that flit through the mid-upper levels of the vegetation. Their movements are likely to catch your eye before you spot the bird itself.

A Melodious Duet

The Black-headed Saltator isn’t shy about making itself heard. Their loud, raucous call, a distinctive “deeeer,” can pierce through the lush greenery. But their true vocal talents shine in their song. Imagine a lively duet – a loud, scratchy “cher cher jur jur weeee” sung by the male, often joined by his mate. This melody is a familiar sound in the mountain forests, a beautiful reminder of the vibrant life that surrounds us.

More Than Just Seeds

While seeds are a staple in their diet, the Black-headed Saltator isn’t a picky eater. They readily devour fruits, buds, and even slow-moving insects. This adaptability allows them to thrive in the diverse ecosystems of Costa Rica.

Spotting a Black-headed Saltator

While these birds prefer the upper canopy, with a bit of patience, you might be lucky enough to see one during your stay at the Costa Rican Retreat. Early mornings are often the best time for birdwatching, as they’re particularly active during this time. Look for flashes of color flitting through the trees, and listen for their calls and songs echoing through the mountains.

If you’re unsure about what you’ve seen or heard, don’t hesitate to ask our on-site naturalists. They’re experts at helping you identify the feathered residents of our retreat.

So, the next time you’re exploring the mountain trails, keep your eyes peeled and your ears open. You might just be rewarded with an encounter with the Black-headed Saltator, a symphony of color and song amidst the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains.

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

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