High up in the Costa Rican rainforest canopy, a flash of white catches your eye. It darts between the leaves, a blur of black and white feathers. This is the white-winged becard, a fascinating resident of the mountain forests you can see on your retreat here at (Retreat Name).

The white-winged becard (Pachyramphus polychopterus) is a small songbird, typically measuring just around six inches long. While classified as a suboscine, meaning they lack the complex songs of songbirds, the white-winged becard makes its presence known with a variety of chirps, whistles, and clicks.

One of the easiest ways to identify this little bird is by its namesake – the white wings. These flash prominently during flight, making them a standout feature. Males are generally black overall with these striking white wings, while females tend to be a brownish-gray with two white wing bars.

Listen for the becard’s calls as you explore the trails around the retreat. They are particularly active during the wet season, which starts in April and lasts until around October. This is also their breeding season, so you might be lucky enough to spot a well-hidden, globe-shaped nest nestled high in the branches of a tree.

The white-winged becard is not picky about habitat and can be found in a variety of forested areas, from the lowlands up to 1,600 feet. So, whether you’re exploring the lush rainforests or venturing deeper into the mountains on your retreat, keep your eyes peeled for this little flash of white.

Here are some additional interesting facts about the white-winged becard:

• Eight Subspecies: The white-winged becard can be found across a vast range in Central and South America, with eight recognized subspecies. These subspecies can vary slightly in plumage and vocalizations.
• Not Quite Songbirds: Though classified as suboscine, the white-winged becard still produces a variety of calls, including whistled songs and chattering sounds.
• Strategic Nesting: The female becard cleverly builds her nest high in the canopy, often incorporating chicken feathers for insulation and even positioning it near wasp nests to deter predators.
• Least Concern: Thankfully, the white-winged becard is listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, meaning its population is stable.

Next time you’re here at the retreat, take a moment to appreciate the incredible diversity of birdlife in the Costa Rican mountains. With a little patience and observation, you might just catch a glimpse of the white-winged becard flitting through the trees.

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

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