High in the mountains of Costa Rica, where the air grows crisp and the views extend for miles, there exists a master of the skies – the Chestnut-collared Swift. This incredible bird, with its acrobatic flight and electrifying chatter, is a common sight for our guests at the retreat.

While you might mistake them for swallows at first glance, the Chestnut-collared Swift (Streptoprocne rutila) belongs to the swift family (Apodidae). Slightly larger than a Chimney Swift, these birds are built for life on the wing. Their long, pointed wings and deeply forked tail allow for incredible maneuverability, making them a marvel to observe as they zip and zag through the mountain air.

Spotting a Chestnut-collared Swift

At first glance, these swifts appear almost entirely black. But look a little closer, especially in good light, and you might catch a glimpse of their namesake feature – a subtle chestnut-colored collar. This rusty band adorns the necks of adult swifts, while younger birds lack this distinctive marking.

While soaring through the air is their specialty, Chestnut-collared Swifts can sometimes be seen perched on cliffs or snags, clinging with their strong feet. But don’t expect them to stay still for long. These birds are almost constantly on the move, hunting for insects on the wing.

Listen for the Crackle

While their visual beauty is undeniable, the Chestnut-collared Swift also boasts a unique vocalization. Their call is a loud, crackling chatter that some describe as sounding like electricity passing through wires. This distinctive sound is a surefire way to identify these swifts, even when they’re just specks against the vast blue canvas of the mountain sky.

Habitat and Habits

The Chestnut-collared Swift is a bird of the foothills and highlands, though they can occasionally be spotted ranging down to the lowlands. They are most at home in open areas with some scattered trees, cliffs, or rock faces. This makes them a common sight around our mountain retreat, where they gracefully navigate the valleys and ridges.

These swifts are social creatures, often seen flying in large flocks. They might even associate with swallows and other swift species, creating a mesmerizing aerial ballet.

A Glimpse into the Life of a Swift

The Chestnut-collared Swift spends most of its life in the air. They catch insects on the wing, using their sharp eyesight and maneuverability to snatch their prey mid-flight. They even drink, bathe, and mate while airborne – a truly aerial existence.

Breeding season for the Chestnut-collared Swift typically takes place between March and August. They build their nests on cliffs or in crevices of buildings, crafting a cup-shaped structure from twigs and leaves. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.

Seeing the Chestnut-collared Swift at the Retreat

If you’re looking for an unforgettable birdwatching experience, look no further than the skies above our Costa Rican retreat. The Chestnut-collared Swift, with its captivating flight and unique calls, is a guaranteed highlight.

So, keep your eyes peeled (and ears tuned) as you explore the mountains. You might just spot this master of the skies, a living testament to the wonders of the Costa Rican avian world.

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