Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of Costa Rica’s highlands, we celebrate the symphony of birdsong that fills the air each morning. But the natural world extends far beyond our mountainous haven, and today, we venture down to the sun-drenched coasts to meet a fascinating feathered resident: the Mangrove Vireo.

Despite its name, the Mangrove Vireo isn’t a constant presence in mangrove forests. This little songbird, measuring a mere 10 cm (3.9 in), prefers the dappled shade of scrubby woodlands, brushy fields, and the thickets that grace the Yucatan Peninsula. In Costa Rica, however, you might encounter them along the Pacific coast, flitting through the occasional mangrove patch.

Look for a flash of olive or olive-grey plumage as the Mangrove Vireo flits through the foliage. A bright yellow patch between the eyes and bill, called the lores, adds a pop of color. Both males and females share this drab yet distinctive attire. Two white wing bars act as helpful identification marks during flight.

Intriguingly, the Mangrove Vireo boasts a surprising level of variation in its appearance. The Caribbean population exhibits two color phases: a vibrant yellow and a more subdued grey. Here in Costa Rica, however, the Pacific population sticks to a single olive-grey palette.

This little songster is a true chatterbox. Their song is a series of short, nasal “chwei-chwei-chwei” notes, a melody that becomes a familiar tune across the Yucatan Peninsula. But the Mangrove Vireo isn’t a one-trick pony. Their repertoire includes a variety of calls, from short, repeated wheezes to a bouncy “breeeee” and a sequence of lively notes that resemble a cartoon spring.

The Mangrove Vireo is an insectivore, flitting through the undergrowth in search of small insects and spiders. Their acrobatic skills allow them to snatch prey mid-air, a testament to their agility.

The good news for birdwatchers is that the Mangrove Vireo is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. So, if you find yourself exploring the Pacific lowlands or venturing further north into the Yucatan Peninsula, keep your ears peeled for their intriguing song and your eyes sharp for a flash of olive amidst the greenery. The Mangrove Vireo, with its surprising inconsistencies and delightful song, is sure to become a memorable part of your Costa Rican birding adventure.

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

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