High in the canopy, amongst the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s mountain forests, flit elusive specks of green. One such resident is the Rough-legged Tyrannulet, a tiny songbird with a surprising knack for staying hidden. But for the patient observer, a glimpse of this little wonder can be a delightful reward.

A Master of Camouflage:

The Rough-legged Tyrannulet is a study in subtle greens. Its upperparts are a soft olive-green, blending seamlessly with the foliage. The underparts are a lighter yellow-green, adding a touch of contrast. Unlike many tyrannulets, it lacks the bold markings or contrasting crown that might give it away. This cryptic plumage makes it a master of camouflage, vanishing into the leaves as it perches.

High and Mighty:

While some tyrannulets flit from branch to branch in the lower forest levels, the Rough-legged Tyrannulet prefers the lofty heights of the canopy. Here, it forages for insects amongst the leaves, its short, wide bill perfectly adapted for snatching unsuspecting prey. Keen eyes and a good dose of luck are necessary to spot this little denizen of the upper forest.

Listen Up!

While spotting the Rough-legged Tyrannulet can be a challenge, its voice offers a valuable clue. It has a repertoire of sharp whistles, often delivered in a series. These whistles can be high-pitched and piercing, helping to locate the bird even when it’s hidden from view.

A Forest Specialist:

The Rough-legged Tyrannulet is a bird of the subtropical and tropical moist forests, both in the lowlands and mountains. Here in the mountains of our Costa Rican retreat, it finds a perfect home. The dense foliage and abundant insect life provide everything this little hunter needs to thrive.

A Glimpse into the Hidden World:

Spotting a Rough-legged Tyrannulet is a true birding triumph. It’s a testament to patience, keen observation skills, and perhaps a dash of good fortune. But the reward – a glimpse into the hidden world of the forest canopy – is a memory that will stay with you long after your Costa Rican adventure.

Tips for Seeing the Rough-legged Tyrannulet:

• Early Bird Gets the Worm (and the Tyrannulet): Birds are most active in the early morning hours, so plan your birding outings for dawn or shortly thereafter.
• Follow the Song: The Rough-legged Tyrannulet’s whistles are a great way to locate it. Train your ear to recognize its calls and follow them through the forest.
• Scan the Canopy: Look high up in the trees, focusing on areas with dense foliage. A flash of green or a quick movement might reveal the bird.
• Join a Guided Birdwatching Tour: Our experienced guides at the retreat have a wealth of knowledge about Costa Rican birds and can help you spot even the most elusive species.

With a little patience and these tips, you might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Rough-legged Tyrannulet. And when you do, it will be a moment you won’t soon forget.

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

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