Welcome back, birding enthusiasts, to another feathered friend gracing the skies of our Costa Rican retreat! Today, we set our sights on a sleek aerial acrobat – the Brown-chested Martin.

A Dash of Brown in a Sea of White

The Brown-chested Martin is a member of the swallow family, known for their graceful agility and mastery of the skies. This medium-sized bird boasts a striking plumage. While its upper body and head are a rich, glossy brown, its underparts are a pale, contrasting white. The star of the show, however, is the unmistakable chest band. A deep, sharply defined band of brown stretches across its chest, creating a bold demarcation between its upper and lower body.

Spot the Signs: Where to Find the Brown-chested Martin

These birds are more at home in the lowlands than the heights. So, while you might not see them flitting past your mountainside cabin, keep an eye out during excursions to the open areas near the retreat. Look for them in:

• Dry savannas
• Subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded grasslands
• Near rivers and streams
• Heavily degraded former forests

A Life on the Wing

Brown-chested Martins are social birds, often seen flying in loose flocks. They spend most of their time on the wing, swooping and gliding at low altitudes. Their forked tail and long, pointed wings allow for incredible maneuverability as they hunt for their favorite prey – insects. With their sharp eyesight and acrobatic skills, they snatch these tasty morsels mid-air, a true display of avian prowess.

Listen Up: The Call of the Wild

While not known for elaborate songs, Brown-chested Martins do have a distinct vocalization. Listen for their sharp chitter or tweet calls, especially when they are perched or in flight. These vocalizations are often used for communication between individuals within a flock.

A Global Citizen

The Brown-chested Martin has an impressive range. They are found throughout much of South America, reaching as far north as Costa Rica and the southern United States. This widespread distribution makes them a familiar sight for birdwatchers across the Americas.

Witnessing the Wonders of Nature

While the Brown-chested Martin might not be the most flamboyant bird you encounter, their aerial mastery and distinctive plumage make them a fascinating addition to the Costa Rican avifauna. So, keep your eyes peeled during your explorations of the lowlands, and you might just spot this little brown wonder soaring through the open sky.

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