Welcome back to the Costa Rican Retreat blog! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a true rainforest performer, the Long-tailed Manakin (Chiroxiphia linearis). This dazzling little bird is a favorite among our guests, not just for its stunning plumage, but for its incredible courtship displays that are sure to leave you breathless.

A Flash of Jewel Tones in the Rainforest

The Long-tailed Manakin is a compact bird, typically measuring around 10 centimeters long. Despite their size, they are impossible to miss. Males boast a vibrant plumage that would make a peacock jealous. Their bodies are a deep, glossy black, accented by a bright sky-blue back that shimmers like a sapphire in the dappled sunlight filtering through the rainforest canopy.

Females, on the other hand, are a study in subtle elegance. They are cloaked in a soft, olive green with a hint of yellow on their underparts. Both sexes share a distinctive feature – long, elegant tails. In males, the tail feathers can be up to three times the length of their body, making them a truly striking sight.

A Thespian in the Understory

The Long-tailed Manakin is most commonly found in the understory of Costa Rica’s lowland and foothill rainforests, both wet and dry. While exploring the trails around our retreat, keep an eye out for them perched quietly on branches or flitting between fruiting trees and bushes. They are particularly fond of edges and clearings within the rainforest, where sunlight can reach the forest floor.

But be warned, these little birds are masters of disguise when not engaged in their courtship displays. Their olive green plumage allows them to blend seamlessly into the rainforest foliage, making them tricky to spot unless you know exactly what to look for.

A Captivating Courtship Ritual

The true magic of the Long-tailed Manakin unfolds during breeding season, which typically runs from February to September. This is when the males transform into flamboyant performers, putting on a spectacular show to attract potential mates.

Their courtship display is a sight to behold. Males gather at specific locations called leks, which are cleared areas on the forest floor. Here, they line up on a horizontal perch and take turns launching into an elaborate aerial ballet. Each male performs a series of dazzling maneuvers, including rapid wing flutters, mid-air cartwheels, and loud, piercing whistles.

This acrobatic display is a test of both stamina and agility. The male with the most impressive performance is more likely to catch the eye (and ear) of a passing female. Females will observe the males from nearby branches, eventually choosing the one whose display most impresses her.

Witnessing the Wonder

The Long-tailed Manakin is a widespread resident throughout Costa Rica. Here at the Costa Rican Retreat, we’re fortunate to have these captivating birds as frequent visitors in the rainforest surrounding our grounds. While sightings can be random, our experienced guides know the best spots to look for them and can help you increase your chances of witnessing their incredible courtship displays.

So, keep your eyes peeled and your ears open during your stay. You might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Long-tailed Manakin’s mesmerizing performance – a true testament to the wonders of the Costa Rican rainforest.

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