Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, we revel in the symphony of birdsong that fills the crisp mountain air. But Costa Rica’s avian diversity extends far beyond our lush highlands. Today, we set our sights on the shores, exploring the fascinating Black-bellied Plover, a captivating visitor gracing our Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

A Global Traveler with Dazzling Plumage

The Black-bellied Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) is a medium-sized shorebird with a stocky build and a surprisingly wide range. It breeds in the high Arctic tundra, but come winter, it embarks on incredible migrations, scattering across coastlines worldwide. Here in Costa Rica, these impressive travelers grace our shores from September to May, making them a seasonal delight for birdwatchers.

Spotting a Black-bellied Plover

These plovers are a treat for the eyes. During breeding season, their plumage transforms into a stunning display of black and white. Their face and belly turn a bold black, contrasting beautifully with the checkered black and white pattern adorning their upper body. In non-breeding season, their attire becomes more subdued – a uniform drab gray with a whitish belly.

Look for Black-bellied Plovers on mudflats, beaches, and exposed tidal flats. They’re social birds, often found in flocks, foraging for food. Their feeding style is quite distinctive. They’ll walk or run in short bursts, stopping abruptly to peck at the surface, searching for worms, crustaceans, and insects.

Key Identification Features

• Stocky build: Compared to similar plovers, the Black-bellied Plover has a thicker build and a shorter, stouter bill.
• Black “armpits”: In flight, a diagnostic feature is the prominent black patches beneath their wings – their “armpits.”
• Clean white undertail: No matter the season, the Black-bellied Plover boasts a clean white undertail, which can be helpful in differentiating it from other plovers.

The Voice of Caution

Black-bellied Plovers are known for their vigilance. They’re quick to sound the alarm with loud, shrill calls when they sense danger. This alertness likely played a role in their survival during the devastating shorebird hunting of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Conservation Status

While the Black-bellied Plover is currently classified as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, its population is showing signs of decline. Habitat loss and degradation on their wintering grounds are potential threats. By appreciating and protecting these magnificent birds and their coastal habitats, we can ensure they continue to grace our shores for generations to come.

Where to See Black-bellied Plovers in Costa Rica

Black-bellied Plovers can be spotted along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica. Some excellent locations include:

• Carara National Park (Pacific Coast)
• Cur Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre (Pacific Coast)
• Palo Verde National Park (Pacific Coast)
• Maquenque National Wildlife Refuge (Caribbean Coast)
• Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge (Caribbean Coast)

Witnessing the Black-bellied Plover’s Majesty

The Black-bellied Plover is a testament to the wonders of avian migration. Their striking plumage, fascinating behaviors, and vital role in the coastal ecosystem make them a bird worth seeking out during your Costa Rican adventure. So, keep your eyes peeled on the shores – you might just encounter this remarkable visitor gracing the golden sands.

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