Costa Rica’s skies are a vibrant tapestry of feathered wonders. From the emerald toucans of the rainforest to the scarlet macaws bursting through the canopy, birdwatchers flock here for a chance encounter with avian brilliance. But our avian cast of characters extends far beyond the lush interior. Today, we set our sights on a master of the open ocean, the Galapagos Shearwater (Puffinus subalaris).

While not strictly a resident of Costa Rica, the Galapagos Shearwater graces our Pacific waters during its breeding season. These sleek seabirds, with a wingspan reaching up to 3 feet, are most likely spotted off the coast of the northern and central regions, including the Puntarenas province.

A Tale of Two Shearwaters

Until recently, the Galapagos Shearwater was considered a subspecies of the Audubon’s Shearwater. However, DNA analysis revealed a distinct genetic makeup, making it a full-fledged species with an ancient lineage. Sharing some similarities with its close relative, the Christmas Shearwater, the Galapagos Shearwater boasts a unique charm.

Masters of the Glide

Observing a Galapagos Shearwater in flight is a mesmerizing experience. These birds skim the waves with incredible agility, utilizing a technique known as flap-gliding. They propel themselves forward with rapid bursts of wingbeats, followed by periods of effortless gliding. This energy-efficient technique allows them to cover vast distances while searching for food.

A Life on the Ocean Waves

The Galapagos Shearwater is a true pelagic bird, spending most of its life on the open ocean. It ventures ashore only to breed on remote islands, including the Galapagos Islands (as the name suggests) and Cocos Island. Here, they carve burrows into the soft earth, forming colonies for nesting.

A Glimpse of the Seafarer

While spotting a Galapagos Shearwater from the shores of our mountain retreat might be a stroke of remarkable luck, boat tours venturing out to the Pacific offer a much higher chance of encountering these birds. Keep an eye out for low-flying shearwaters with a distinctive black-and-white plumage. Their upperparts are a cool gray-brown, while their underparts are a dazzling white. Look for the tell-tale white underwing with subtle gray-brown mottling and the contrasting black undertail coverts.

A Call to Conservation

The future of the Galapagos Shearwater is one we must safeguard. While currently listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, their populations have shown signs of decline. Introduced predators like cats and rats on nesting islands pose a significant threat. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these fascinating birds and their fragile island habitats.

So, the next time you find yourself gazing out at the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, remember the Galapagos Shearwater – a testament to the wonders that soar just beyond the horizon.

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