As you gaze out across the lush canopy from your private balcony here at our Costa Rican retreat, a flash of blue might catch your eye. Look a little closer, and you might see a delightful resident of the tropical lowlands – the Gray-breasted Martin.

This large swallow, with a wingspan reaching up to 14 inches, isn’t your average backyard bird. They’re most at home in the open areas and along the forest edges that surround our mountain retreat. Here, they gracefully dance through the air, their glossy blue backs shimmering in the sunlight.

Masters of the Skies

The Gray-breasted Martin is a true aerial artist. They spend most of their days soaring effortlessly, their forked tail feathers acting like rudders as they navigate the updrafts. Their keen eyesight helps them spot tiny insects on the wing, which they snatch up mid-flight with their wide beaks.

While they’re often seen in groups outside of breeding season, these birds pair up for life when it’s time to raise a family. They rely on natural cavities in trees or cliffs for their nests, but have also adapted to human structures. Here at the retreat, we provide nesting boxes to encourage these feathered friends to stay close by.

A Bird of Two Worlds

The Gray-breasted Martin has a vast range, stretching from southern Mexico all the way down to southern South America. They’re considered a “Least Concern” species by conservation organizations, but their populations are thought to be slowly declining. Habitat loss is a major threat, so providing safe nesting sites is crucial for their continued success.

Here at our retreat, we’re committed to creating a haven for Costa Rican wildlife. By protecting the natural environment and providing nesting boxes, we hope to ensure that the Gray-breasted Martin, and the many other incredible birds of Costa Rica, will continue to grace our skies for generations to come.

Keep an eye out for these fascinating birds during your stay at our Costa Rican retreat. With a little patience, you might just be rewarded with a breathtaking display of aerial acrobatics!

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