Hotel Rivel

Birds of Costa Rica

The Not-So-Swashbuckling Pirate: A Look at the Piratic Flycatcher

High in the Costa Rican canopy, a drama unfolds. A persistent “swee-u” pierces the air, followed by a series of rapid “ji-ji-jits.” This isn’t a pirate fight, but the territorial calls of the Piratic Flycatcher, a bird with a most … Read More

The Olive-sided Flycatcher: A Feisty Songster of the Mountain Retreat

High in the canopy, a flash of olive green catches your eye. Perched regally on a dead branch, the Olive-sided Flycatcher surveys its domain. This fascinating resident of Costa Rica’s mountain forests is a true marvel for birders and nature … Read More

The Unassuming Acrobat: A Look at the Ochre-Bellied Flycatcher

High in the canopy or flitting through the understory, the Ochre-bellied Flycatcher might not be the flashiest bird you encounter at our Costa Rican retreat. But don’t let its plain plumage fool you! This little acrobat is a fascinating resident … Read More

The Tiny Tenant: Unveiling the Northern Bentbill in Costa Rican Mountains

Here at our mountain retreat in Costa Rica, mornings erupt in a symphony of birdsong. Amongst the chorus, a high-pitched, rapid chirp might pique your curiosity. That, my friend, could be the delightful Northern Bentbill! Looking for the best next … Read More

A Quiet Mountain Resident: The Unassuming Mountain Elaenia

High in the misty mountains of Costa Rica, amidst the rustling leaves and dappled sunlight, resides an unassuming resident – the Mountain Elaenia (Elaenia frantzii). This small flycatcher, belonging to the tyrant flycatcher family, might not be the most vibrant … Read More

A Tiny Tenant in the Trees: The Mistletoe Tyrannulet

High in the canopy, a flash of olive green catches your eye. It darts between leaves, a tiny acrobat flitting through the branches. This is the Mistletoe Tyrannulet, a common sight for those staying at our mountain retreat in Costa … Read More

The Long-tailed Tyrant: A Playful Dancer in the Costa Rican Canopy

High in the mountain forests of our Costa Rican retreat, a flash of black and white darts between the leaves. It’s the Long-tailed Tyrant, a captivating little flycatcher with a name that perfectly describes its most striking feature. But this … Read More

The Lesser Elaenia: A Tiny Jewel of the Costa Rican Mountains

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Costa Rica’s mountainous regions, you might be lucky enough to spot a charming little bird known as the Lesser Elaenia (Elaenia chiriquensis). This tiny tyrant flycatcher is a true gem for birdwatchers, offering a … Read More

The Tiny Titan: A Look at the Least Flycatcher

Deep within the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s mountains, amidst the symphony of rustling leaves and cascading waterfalls, resides a tiny avian wonder – the Least Flycatcher. True to its name, this diminutive bird is the smallest member of the … Read More

The Great Kiskadee: Costa Rica’s Bold and Boisterous Beauty

High in the lush canopy of our Costa Rican retreat, a flash of vibrant yellow catches your eye. It’s the Great Kiskadee, one of the most recognizable and beloved birds in the country. This feisty flycatcher is a constant companion, … Read More