High in the rugged mountains of our Costa Rican retreat, the symphony of bird song is a constant companion. But among the vibrant calls of toucans and the melodic whistles of wrens, a smaller, subtler singer flits about: the Dunlin. This seemingly modest shorebird, barely larger than a sparrow, embarks on an incredible journey that brings it to our mountainous paradise for a short period each year.
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The Dunlin (Calidris alpina) is a circumpolar shorebird that breeds in the far north: the Arctic tundra of Alaska, Canada, Siberia, and Greenland. As winter approaches, these tiny titans of the sky embark on a southward migration of epic proportions. They travel thousands of kilometers, some as far as South America, to escape the harsh Arctic winter and find abundant food sources.
While Costa Rica is not their final destination, during a few lucky weeks each year, the Dunlin graces our coasts, both Pacific and Caribbean. Here, in the mountains, they can be observed in high-altitude wetlands or along the banks of freshwater rivers. Their fleeting visit coincides with the rainy season, from approximately September to April, when water levels are high, creating ideal feeding grounds.
The Dunlin is a delight for birdwatchers. In their breeding plumage, males sport an impressive rusty-red back, contrasting with a black belly and a white chest with dark streaks. Females are more subdued, with a back patterned in browns and grays. During migration, both sexes adopt a duller plumage, perfect for blending into the mudflats and beaches they frequent.
These small dynamos are a marvel of adaptation. Their short, sturdy beak is perfectly designed to probe soft mud for their favorite food: small invertebrates like worms, crustaceans, and insects. Their strong legs allow them to scurry along the water’s edge or splash in shallow waters, with their large dark eyes constantly searching for their next meal.
While the Dunlin may not be the most striking bird in our Costa Rican aviary, its resilience, long-distance travel prowess, and delicate beauty make it a true wonder. If you are lucky enough to see one flitting through the mountain wetlands during your stay at our retreat, take a moment to appreciate this small traveler, a testament to the incredible adaptability and interconnectedness of the natural world.
Para obtener más información, consulte nuestra guía completa sobre las aves de Costa Rica.
