Here at our mountain retreat, nestled in the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s highlands, we are surrounded by a symphony of bird songs. But while our haven boasts an impressive variety of feathered residents, there’s a chance you might encounter a visitor from a completely different world: the Great Shearwater.

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Yes, you read that right! Although Costa Rica is renowned for its rainforests and volcanic peaks, the Great Shearwater, a magnificent seabird, graces our skies during its annual migration. Let’s delve into the fascinating life of this oceanic adventurer:

A Master Globetrotter:

The Great Shearwater is a true nomad of the skies. While it breeds on just a handful of remote islands in the South Atlantic, its non-breeding season takes it on an incredible journey. It travels thousands of kilometers north, reaching the cooler waters off the coasts of North and Central America, including Costa Rica. This means that during its northward migration (approximately from May to September), you might be lucky enough to see it soaring over the mountains surrounding our retreat!

Built for the Open Sea:

The Great Shearwater is a master of flight, perfectly adapted to life on the open sea. It has long, narrow wings that remain stiff during flight, allowing it to glide effortlessly over great distances. Its rigid wing beats propel it forward, while the air currents skimming the ocean’s surface keep it aloft for hours on end.

Spotting the Ocean Traveler:

While not as common as some of our resident birds, keen observers can spot the Great Shearwater during its stay in Costa Rica. Look out for a large bird (with a wingspan of up to 2.1 meters!) with a dark head and a white collar around its neck. In flight, it often holds its wings straighter than other shearwaters, with a distinctive brown patch visible on the underside of its belly.

An Extraordinary Life:

The life of the Great Shearwater is one of constant movement. It spends most of its time at sea, returning to land only to breed. Its diet consists mainly of fish and squid, which it snatches from the surface or chases by diving underwater. These birds are also known for their “last hurrah” behavior before returning to their breeding grounds, engaging in aerial displays and playful chases.

A Glimpse into a Different World:

A sighting of the Great Shearwater here in the mountains of Costa Rica is a truly special event. It is a reminder of our planet’s interconnectedness, an opportunity to witness a creature that spends most of its life in a completely different environment. So, the next time you’re gazing at the Costa Rican sky, keep an eye out for this incredible avian visitor. You might be rewarded with a glimpse of the oceanic world flying over the tropical forest canopy.

Para obtener más información, consulte nuestra guía completa sobre las aves de Costa Rica.