High in the mountains of Costa Rica, our retreat offers a haven of tranquility. But did you know Costa Rica’s avian wonders extend far beyond the lush greenery that surrounds us? Today, we set our sights on the coast, encountering a charismatic character with a touch of the Inca – the Inca Tern!

A Dashing Mustache and a Humboldt Heart

The Inca Tern (Larosterna inca) is a sight to behold. With a sleek, dark grey body and a narrow white trailing edge on its wings, it cuts a striking figure against the vast blue canvas of the Pacific Ocean. But its most distinguishing feature is undoubtedly its namesake – a bold white mustache that graces both males and females.

These terns are native to the Humboldt Current region, which stretches along the coasts of Peru and Chile. However, their adventurous spirit sometimes leads them further north. Keen birders in Costa Rica might be lucky enough to spot them as vagrants, particularly along the Pacific coast.

Life on the Ocean Waves

Inca terns are masters of the coastal waters. Unlike many terns that plunge-dive for fish, the Inca tern prefers a more relaxed approach. They often hover gracefully above the surface, scanning for prey like anchovies. Once they spot a target, they’ll dip their beaks into the water to snatch a quick snack.

These social birds often congregate in large flocks, sometimes numbering up to 5,000 individuals! Watching them flit across the waves in a coordinated dance is a truly mesmerizing spectacle.

A Cause for Concern

Sadly, the Inca tern’s future is not as bright as its plumage. Classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, their population is on the decline. This is primarily due to dwindling fish stocks, a major food source for these terns. Overfishing and the effects of climate change are significant contributors to this problem.

Keeping a Watchful Eye

Conservation efforts are underway to protect the Inca tern and its habitat. Marine protected areas and sustainable fishing practices are crucial in ensuring these magnificent birds continue to grace the coasts of South America, and on rare occasions, Costa Rica.

A Glimpse of the Inca on Your Costa Rican Adventure

While spotting an Inca tern in Costa Rica might require a stroke of birding luck, there are plenty of incredible avian residents to discover during your stay at our mountain retreat. From the resplendent quetzals to the comical toucans, Costa Rica’s biodiversity is a sight to behold.

So, keep your eyes peeled during your excursions, and who knows, you might just encounter a touch of the Inca on your Costa Rican adventure!

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

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