High in the Costa Rican mountains, amidst the verdant tapestry of the cloud forest, resides a fascinating little resident – the Nicaraguan Seed-Finch. While its range extends into neighboring countries, spotting this unique bird adds a touch of the exotic to your Costa Rican birding adventure. So, keep your eyes peeled and binoculars ready, because this charismatic finch might just surprise you!

A Bird of Bold Contrasts

The Nicaraguan Seed-Finch is a captivating study in contrasts. The male is a sight to behold – a sleek, jet-black body gleaming with an almost glossy sheen. This dark plumage is dramatically offset by the pièce de résistance: a ridiculously oversized, bubblegum pink bill! This behemoth of a beak adds a touch of whimsy to the bird’s appearance and is sure to grab your attention.

Females, on the other hand, are considerably more subdued. They sport a warm, rich brown coat that blends beautifully with their surroundings. However, they share the same outsized bill with the males, although theirs is a more subdued dark gray. This impressive beak size is a key adaptation, allowing them to crack open even the toughest seeds.

Habitat Hopping

While you might encounter the Nicaraguan Seed-Finch in our mountain retreat, their preferred habitat is a little more diverse. They favor open areas with scattered shrubs, including:

• Subtropical or tropical moist shrubland
• Swamps and marshes
• Heavily degraded former forests

So, if you’re venturing outside the mountains on your Costa Rican explorations, keep an eye out for these adaptable finches in these locations.

A Life of Seeds

As the name suggests, the Nicaraguan Seed-Finch is a dedicated seed eater. Their large bills allow them to tackle a variety of seeds, including grasses and weeds. They’re not fussy feeders and will readily explore different options depending on what’s available.

These little finches are non-migratory, meaning they stay put in their chosen territory year-round. This resident nature makes them a reliable addition to your Costa Rican birding list, provided you know where to look.

A Sight to Remember

Spotting a Nicaraguan Seed-Finch is a delightful experience. Their bold appearance, with the contrasting black plumage and the oversized pink bill in the males, makes them truly unforgettable. They’re a vibrant reminder of the incredible biodiversity that Costa Rica has to offer.

So, the next time you’re exploring the lush mountains or venturing into the open plains of Costa Rica, keep an eye out for this little gem. With a bit of patience and some keen observation skills, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of the Nicaraguan Seed-Finch, a unique resident that adds a touch of the extraordinary to the Costa Rican birding experience.

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

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