While our mountain retreat offers a symphony of birdsong each morning, some avian wonders require a different kind of Costa Rican adventure. Today, we set our sights (and ears) on the ocean, specifically the elusive Leach’s storm-petrel.

This tiny seabird, a mere 18-21 cm long with a wingspan reaching 48 cm, is a master of the open ocean. Unlike the vibrantly colored residents flitting through our trees, Leach’s storm-petrel is a creature of subtle elegance. Its plumage is primarily dark, with a characteristic white rump – though in some populations on the west coast of North America, you might find a rare dark-rumped individual.

These birds are aptly named for their habit of riding the wind and waves, often following ships or gathering where currents meet, creating upwellings rich in food. Their wings are perfectly adapted for this life, long and narrow, allowing them to glide effortlessly just above the water’s surface.

While sightings from our mountain retreat are unlikely, avid birdwatchers can glimpse these fascinating creatures on pelagic birding tours offered along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. These boat trips venture offshore, specifically targeting areas where storm-petrels are known to congregate.

Here are some fascinating facts about Leach’s storm-petrel to whet your appetite for an oceanic adventure:

• Masters of the Night: Like many petrels, Leach’s storm-petrel is nocturnal on land. They visit their breeding colonies only at night, nesting in burrows on remote islands or sea cliffs. This nocturnal behavior helps them avoid predators like gulls and skuas.
• Acrobatic Feeders: These birds are graceful in the air, dipping their bills to snatch small fish, squid, and crustaceans from the water’s surface. They can also perform a remarkable trick called “patterskiing” – running on the water’s surface with their feet while using their wings for propulsion!
• Global Gliders: Leach’s storm-petrel has a truly impressive range. These birds breed in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans, with some populations even venturing into the Southern Hemisphere. Their ability to spend vast amounts of time aloft and cover incredible distances is a testament to their remarkable adaptations.

While you might not see a Leach’s storm-petrel from our mountain lodge, a Costa Rican adventure can encompass so much more than just the rainforest. If you’re a birder with a sense of adventure, consider adding a pelagic birding tour to your itinerary. You might just catch a glimpse of this fascinating creature, a true citizen of the open ocean.

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