Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we are surrounded by a vibrant symphony of life. From the raucous calls of toucans to the delicate hum of hummingbirds, our haven is a haven for birdwatchers. Today, we turn our binoculars to a secretive resident of the cloud forests, the Ochraceous Pewee (Contopus ochraceus).
A Flash of Ochre in the Green Cathedral
The Ochraceous Pewee is a true child of the mist-shrouded mountains. Unlike its brightly colored cousins, the Ochraceous Pewee dons a plumage of subtle beauty. Its upperparts are a muted olive-brown, while the underparts are a warmer buff, lending the bird its namesake “ochraceous” hue – a color reminiscent of ochre clay. This cryptic camouflage allows it to blend seamlessly with the mossy branches and the dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy.
Spotting an Ochraceous Pewee can be a delightful challenge. Unlike its more vocal relatives, the Ochraceous Pewee is a creature of quiet observation. It prefers the upper reaches of the forest, perched on exposed branches or atop towering trees. Keen eyes might catch a glimpse of its quick, darting sallies as it hunts for insects amongst the leaves.
A Master of Flycatching
The Ochraceous Pewee exemplifies the remarkable skills of the tyrant flycatcher family. With a sharp eye and an even sharper beak, it hunts a variety of flying insects. From midges and mosquitoes to butterflies and dragonflies, the Ochraceous Pewee expertly snatches its prey in mid-air. Its perch serves as a launchpad for acrobatic sallies, and its success rate in catching its prey is truly impressive.
A Song Unheard by Many
The Ochraceous Pewee’s secretive nature extends to its vocalizations. Unlike the Eastern Wood Pewee of North America, with its clear and whistled song, the Ochraceous Pewee’s song is a softer affair. It delivers a series of short, whistled notes that some describe as a melancholic “pee-a-wee” or a buzzy “zeeet.” While it may not be the most melodious song in the forest, it holds a certain charm for those lucky enough to hear it.
A Cloud Forest Jewel
The Ochraceous Pewee’s restricted range makes it a prized sighting for birdwatchers. Found only in the montane forests of Costa Rica and western Panama, it adds a touch of exclusivity to your Costa Rican birding adventure. If you’re ever fortunate enough to spot this elusive bird, take a moment to appreciate its understated beauty and its mastery of the insect hunt. The Ochraceous Pewee is a true hidden gem of the Costa Rican cloud forests.
Keep an eye out for the Ochraceous Pewee on your next visit to our mountain retreat. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this fascinating creature.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
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