Welcome back, birding enthusiasts, to another feathered friend feature here at your Costa Rican mountain retreat! Today, we take to the skies (figuratively, for now) to explore a fascinating bird that thrives in both the open fields of our lowlands and the majesty of our mountain ranges – the Crested Caracara.

A Majestic Mountain Resident (and Beyond)

The Crested Caracara, also known as the Mexican Eagle (though not truly an eagle!), is a captivating bird of prey belonging to the falcon family. You might spot this striking creature soaring above the treetops or perched prominently on a fence post, its keen eyes scanning the landscape for its next meal.

Look for These Distinctive Features:

• Size and Build: The Crested Caracara is a medium-sized raptor with a bulky body and impressive wingspan.
• The Signature Crest: This bird’s namesake feature is a shaggy crest adorning its flat head, adding a touch of regality to its profile.
• Color Scheme: Look for a contrasting color palette – a dark cap contrasting with a white neck and cheeks. The body is generally black, with flashes of white visible in the wings and tail during flight.
• Bold and Beautiful Legs: You can’t miss the Crested Caracara’s vibrant yellow-orange legs, a striking pop of color that adds to its character.

A Creature of Adaptability

The Crested Caracara is an incredibly adaptable bird, comfortable in a wide range of habitats. From the open fields of the lowlands to the mountain slopes you can find around our retreat, they seem at ease. They’re not picky about rainforests either, though dense areas are less preferred. Interestingly, they’ve even been spotted scavenging scraps near human settlements, showcasing their opportunistic nature.

A Glimpse into their Lives

These birds are often seen flying low to the ground with powerful wingbeats. Unlike vultures, they hold their wings steady during flight, creating a majestic silhouette against the sky. They’re excellent walkers too, often patrolling the ground on their long legs in search of prey.

Speaking of prey, the Crested Caracara is not one to be too choosy. They’ll readily feast on carrion, small mammals, reptiles, and even insects. They’ve also been known to follow vultures, scavenging scraps left behind from a larger kill.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled!

While the Crested Caracara has a vast range that stretches from the southern United States down to the tip of South America, here at our Costa Rican retreat, you have a good chance of spotting them. So, the next time you’re out exploring the mountain trails or relaxing by the pool, keep an eye out for this magnificent bird of prey. With its striking appearance and fascinating behaviors, the Crested Caracara is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)