Here at the Costa Rican Retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we pride ourselves on being a haven for all creatures, great and small. But our avian visitors hold a special place in our hearts. Today, we turn our gaze to a rather uncommon guest, a true globetrotter of the skies – the Manx shearwater.
The Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) isn’t a resident of Costa Rica. This medium-sized seabird, belonging to the shearwater family, hails from the faraway shores of the North Atlantic. They spend their breeding seasons on islands off the coasts of Europe and North America, and then embark on incredible migrations, journeying all the way to the South Atlantic for the winter.
While uncommon, Manx shearwaters have been spotted off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, particularly in the cooler waters. So, if you’re lucky enough to be gazing out at the vast expanse of the ocean during your stay, keep an eye out for this fascinating visitor.
Spotting a Manx Shearwater
These birds are masters of the open ocean, rarely venturing close to land except for breeding. But their unique flight pattern makes them a sight to behold. Here’s what to look for:
- Black and White Beauty: The Manx shearwater boasts a classic black and white plumage. The upper body is a dark, sooty black, while the underside is a bright white.
- Shearing Flight: True to their name, Manx shearwaters exhibit a characteristic “shearing” flight style. They glide on stiff wings held at right angles to their body, dipping from side to side with minimal wingbeats. The wingtips almost brush the water’s surface, creating a mesmerizing dance.
- Flashing White: As they shear through the air, the contrasting black and white colors create a striking effect. The white underparts flash momentarily as the bird dips, making it easier to spot against the vast blue canvas of the sky.
A Life on the Move
Manx shearwaters are true champions of long-distance travel. They can cover astounding distances – up to 10,000 kilometers – during their migrations. They spend most of their lives at sea, only returning to land for breeding purposes. They are nocturnal on land, nesting in burrows on islands free from predators.
A Coastal Feast
These incredible birds are adept hunters, feeding on small fish, squid, and krill. Their keen eyesight and “tubular nostrils” – special nostrils positioned on the top of their bill – help them locate prey even in rough seas. They often follow feeding ships, taking advantage of the stirred-up waters to snatch a quick meal.
A Glimpse into a Wandering World
While the Manx shearwater might be a rare sight here at the Costa Rican Retreat, spotting one is a truly special experience. It’s a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet and the incredible journeys undertaken by some of its creatures. So, the next time you find yourself gazing out at the ocean, keep an eye out for this enigmatic visitor, a fleeting glimpse into a world beyond the mountains.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
