Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s highlands, we’re surrounded by a symphony of birdsong. But while our haven boasts a stunning variety of feathered residents, there’s a chance you might encounter a visitor from a completely different world – the Great Shearwater.
Yes, you read that right! Though Costa Rica is renowned for its rainforests and volcanic peaks, the Great Shearwater, a magnificent seabird, graces our skies during its annual migration. Let’s delve into the fascinating life of this oceanic adventurer:
A Globetrotting Master:
The Great Shearwater is a true nomad of the skies. While they breed on just a handful of remote islands in the South Atlantic, their non-breeding season takes them on an incredible journey. They travel thousands of miles north, reaching the cooler waters off the coasts of North and Central America, including Costa Rica. This means that during their northern migration (roughly from May to September), you might be lucky enough to spot them soaring over the mountains surrounding our retreat!
Built for the Open Ocean:
The Great Shearwater is a master of flight, perfectly adapted for life on the open seas. They have long, narrow wings, held rigidly during flight, allowing them to glide effortlessly across vast distances. Their stiff wingbeats propel them forward, while air currents skimming the ocean’s surface keep them aloft for hours on end.
Spotting the Ocean Wanderer:
While not as common as some of our resident birds, keen observers might catch a glimpse of the Great Shearwater during their Costa Rican sojourn. Keep an eye out for a large (wingspan of up to 7 feet!) dark-capped bird with a white neck collar. In flight, they often hold their wings straighter than other shearwaters, with a characteristic brown smudge visible on the underbelly.
A Life Less Ordinary:
The Great Shearwater’s life is one of constant movement. They spend most of their time far out at sea, only returning to land to breed. Their diet consists mainly of fish and squid, which they snatch from the surface or pursue by diving underwater. These birds are also known for their “last hurrah” behavior before returning to their breeding grounds, engaging in aerial displays and playful chases.
A Glimpse of a Different World:
A sighting of the Great Shearwater here in the Costa Rican mountains is a truly special event. It’s a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet, a chance to witness a creature that spends most of its life in a completely different environment. So, the next time you’re gazing up at the Costa Rican sky, keep an eye out for this incredible avian visitor. You might just be rewarded with a glimpse of the ocean world soaring high above the rainforest canopy.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
