Here at Hotel Rivel, nestled in the emerald embrace of the Costa Rican mountains, we are surrounded by a symphony of sights and sounds. Among the vibrant tapestry of birds fluttering among the trees, the Blue Seedeater is a captivating sight, a flash of blue against the green backdrop.

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This small songbird, also known as the Cabanis’s Seedeater (Amaurospiza concolor), is a member of the cardinal family. Measuring just 11.5 to 14 centimeters (4.5 to 5.5 inches) and weighing only 12 to 15 grams (0.42 to 0.53 ounces), the Blue Seedeater is an adorable bundle of energy.

But don’t be fooled by its size! The Blue Seedeater is a marvel of avian elegance.

• Dressed to impress: Males of the nominal subspecies are a sight to behold. They sport dazzling slate-blue plumage, a color that seems to capture the essence of the clear mountain sky. The A. c. relicta subspecies has a slightly different look, with a more brownish tone and black lores (the area between the beak and the eye).
• A tale of two plumages: Females, on the other hand, are a beautiful contrast to the males. Their upper parts are adorned with a rich cinnamon color, while their underparts are a warm buff tone. This difference in plumage between the sexes, known as sexual dimorphism, is quite common in the bird world.
• A song in the mountains: While not the most striking songbird, the melody of the Blue Seedeater has a certain charm. Its song has been described as a series of sharp metallic chips interspersed with sweet warbling notes.
• A seed-eating specialist: As its name suggests, the Blue Seedeater’s diet is primarily seed-based. They are particularly fond of the seeds of bamboo plants, which abound in the wooded areas they inhabit.

Finding the Blue Seedeater:

While not the most common bird in Costa Rica, the Blue Seedeater can be spotted by those with a keen eye and a patient spirit. They typically frequent wooded areas, from lowlands to highlands, with a particular preference for foothills. They are often seen foraging in pairs or even as solitary individuals, flitting among the branches as they search for their next meal.

A glimpse of blue at Hotel Rivel:

The lush mountains surrounding Hotel Rivel provide the perfect habitat for the Blue Seedeater. With a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of this charming songbird flitting among the trees during your stay. Keep an ear out for their distinctive calls and watch for flashes of blue among the foliage.

For avid birdwatchers, spotting the Blue Seedeater can be a rewarding experience. But even for casual observers, this little bird is a testament to the beauty and diversity of life thriving in the Costa Rican mountains.

So, on your next nature walk at Hotel Rivel, keep your eyes peeled for this sapphire gem. The Blue Seedeater might just be the next feathered wonder you encounter on your Costa Rican adventure!

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