Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rican rainforests, we’re surrounded by a symphony of birdsong. Today, we turn our binoculars to a fascinating little visitor, a traveler from afar – the Tennessee Warbler.
This dainty warbler, despite its name, graces Costa Rica only during its winter migration. So named by ornithologist Alexander Wilson based on a mistaken encounter in Tennessee, the Tennessee Warbler’s true breeding grounds lie in the boreal forests of Canada.
A Gem in Green and Gray
The Tennessee Warbler is a visual treat. Breeding males are a study in cool contrasts. Their backs are a crisp lime green, offset by a slate-gray head and a bright white stripe that arcs elegantly above their eye. Their underparts are a clean white, sometimes tinged with a subtle wash of yellow.
Females and immature Tennessee Warblers lack the bold contrast of the breeding males. They tend to be more olive-yellow overall, with a hint of the gray head peeking through. But one feature remains constant across all plumages – the white undertail coverts. This is a key identifying characteristic, helping to differentiate them from similar warbler species.
A Master of Disguise
While small in stature (barely exceeding five inches in length), the Tennessee Warbler is a master of disguise. Their slender build and thin, pointed bill allow them to navigate the dense foliage of the forest canopy with ease. Here, they flit from branch to branch, gleaning insects – their primary food source.
During breeding season in Canada, they feast on a specific type of caterpillar – the spruce budworm. But here in Costa Rica, their diet becomes more diverse, encompassing a wider variety of insects. Interestingly, during their winter stay, they’ve also been known to adopt some less-than-ethical dining habits.
The Not-So-Gentle Nectar Thief
Tennessee Warblers have a fondness for nectar, a sweet treat offered by many flowering plants. However, unlike hummingbirds and butterflies, who act as pollinators while sipping nectar, the Tennessee Warbler employs a rather cunning strategy.
They pierce the base of the flower with their sharp beak, bypassing the flower’s intended pollination mechanism and stealing the sweet reward without contributing to plant reproduction. This technique has earned them the nickname “nectar thief” among birders.
A Transient Symphony
The Tennessee Warbler graces Costa Rica for a few precious months during the winter, their presence adding another layer of melody to the vibrant tapestry of birdlife here at our mountain retreat. While their stay may be temporary, their charm and unique adaptations leave a lasting impression.
So, the next time you’re here, keep an ear out for the Tennessee Warbler’s high-pitched, three-part song. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just catch a glimpse of this tiny emerald wonder flitting through the trees, a testament to the wonders of migration and the beauty of the natural world.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
