While our mountain retreat offers stunning views and abundant rainforest life, Costa Rica’s diverse geography welcomes a surprising range of visitors. Today, we turn our gaze to the shores and mudflats, encountering a remarkable long-distance traveler – the Western Sandpiper.
A Shorebird on the Move
The Western Sandpiper (Calidris mauri) is a small shorebird, a champion among migratory feats. These tireless birds breed in the far north, across the Arctic tundra of Alaska and Canada. But come winter, they embark on incredible journeys, traveling south all the way to Central and South America.
While not as common as some resident shorebirds in Costa Rica, Western Sandpipers can be spotted along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, particularly during migration periods (March-May and September-November). They favor exposed tidal flats, mudflats, and sandy beaches, making them most viewable during low tide.
Spotting a Western Sandpiper
At a petite 5.5-6.7 inches long, the Western Sandpiper is easy to miss. But with a keen eye, you might catch a glimpse of these busy foragers scurrying along the shoreline, probing the mud with their dark, thin bills in search of crustaceans, worms, and insects.
Breeding Plumage vs. Winter Wear
The Western Sandpiper’s appearance changes with the seasons. During breeding season, they sport a vibrant transformation. Their upper body dons a rich brown coat, while the crown boasts a delightful reddish-brown patch. The breast and underparts are a clean white, creating a handsome contrast.
However, during their winter stay in Costa Rica, they’ll be sporting their more subdued winter plumage. Both males and females resemble each other, with a plain gray upper body and white underparts. This similarity can make distinguishing them from other small shorebirds, like the Semipalmated Sandpiper, a bit of a challenge.
Here are some key features to help you identify a Western Sandpiper in its winter plumage:
- Smaller size: Compared to other shorebirds, the Western Sandpiper is a tiny fellow.
- Shorter, thinner bill: Its bill is dark and relatively short, tapering to a fine tip, perfect for probing in mud.
- Dark legs: Take note of their dark legs, which can help differentiate them from some shorebirds with lighter legs.
A Stopover on a Grand Journey
The Western Sandpiper’s visit to Costa Rica is a brief one. They likely refuel on our rich coastal ecosystems before continuing their southward migration.
While their stay may be short, their presence adds another layer of wonder to Costa Rica’s ecological tapestry. So, the next time you find yourself on the coast, keep an eye out for these remarkable little travelers. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just be lucky enough to spot a Western Sandpiper, a testament to the incredible journeys undertaken by the avian world.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
