High in the canopy or flitting amongst the undergrowth, the Bicolored Antbird (Gymnopithys bicolor) is a captivating resident of Costa Rica’s mountain forests. This blog post dives into the world of this feathered wonder, giving you the knowledge and tools to spot it during your stay at our secluded Costa Rican retreat.

A Bird of Two Colors:

As its name suggests, the Bicolored Antbird lives up to its billing with a striking two-toned plumage. Males and females share similar coloration. The upper parts of their body, including the crown and nape, are a rich brownish chestnut, giving them a camouflaged appearance amidst the leaves and branches.

This camouflage is offset by a stunning display on the bird’s face. Bare, bright blue-gray skin surrounds the eye, creating a distinctive eyering. A contrasting black mask extends from the bill across the cheeks, adding a touch of drama. The forehead is a cool gray, and a broad band of the same color runs behind the eye, separating the mask from the chestnut crown.

The bird’s underparts complete the two-toned look. From the chin to the belly, the Bicolored Antbird boasts a snowy white plumage, a stark contrast to the rich browns and grays above. This coloration makes them easier to spot when perched on a branch or flitting in the undergrowth.

Habitat and Habits:

The Bicolored Antbird is a creature of the mountain forests, preferring the dense vegetation and abundant insect life found in the foothills and mid-elevation slopes. They are most commonly found in Costa Rica’s northern and western mountains, with sightings reported from the Cordillera de Tilarán, Cordillera Volcánica Central, and the Cordillera de Guanacaste.

These active insectivores forage for their meals in the lower and middle levels of the forest. They are particularly fond of following army ant swarms, where they can easily snatch up insects fleeing the advancing wave of ants. Bicolored Antbirds are typically seen in pairs or small family groups, flitting through the undergrowth or perching on branches to scan for prey.

A Birder’s Challenge:

While not the shyest of birds, the Bicolored Antbird’s preference for the lower forest levels and dense foliage can make them a challenge to spot. Their small size (around 5.3 to 5.9 inches) and quick movements further add to the difficulty. However, with a keen eye and a bit of patience, you can increase your chances of encountering this fascinating creature.

Tips for Seeing the Bicolored Antbird:

• Early Bird Gets the Worm (and the Antbird): Bicolored Antbirds are most active in the early morning hours. Head out on a nature walk before the sun reaches its peak to get the best chance of seeing them foraging.
• Follow the Sounds: These birds have a distinctive vocalization – a descending, scolding call. Tuning into the forest soundscape can help you locate them when they’re hidden from view.
• Join a Guided Hike: Our experienced retreat guides are familiar with the local birdlife and can lead you to areas where Bicolored Antbirds are frequently spotted.
• Scan the Lower Levels: Focus your gaze on the lower and middle parts of the forest, particularly near the undergrowth and around army ant swarms (if you encounter one!).

By following these tips and keeping your eyes peeled, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this captivating denizen of the Costa Rican mountains. The Bicolored Antbird is a testament to the hidden wonders waiting to be discovered in the lush rainforests of our retreat. So next time you’re here, don’t forget to look down – you might just find a flash of brown, white, and blue flitting amongst the trees.

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

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