Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the verdant embrace of the mountains, we’re surrounded by a symphony of birdsong. Today, we turn our binoculars to a familiar sight, a tiny acrobat with a big personality – the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet.

While unassuming in size, this little flycatcher is a delightful resident you might spot flitting through the trees around the retreat. Let’s delve into the world of the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet, a common yet captivating bird found throughout Costa Rica and much of South America.

A Tiny Titan: Description and Identification

Standing at a mere 10.2 cm (4 inches) tall, the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet is a compact ball of energy. Its plumage varies slightly depending on location, but here in Costa Rica, you’ll likely see a bird with a dark brown or grey head adorned with a distinctive, erectile crest. This crest adds a touch of regality to their otherwise nondescript appearance.

Their upperparts are a beautiful grey-green, transitioning to a paler rump. The wings are a rich brown with pops of color – yellowish feather edges and two whitish, yellowish, or cinnamon wing bars. Keep an eye out for their tail, which they often hold cocked, adding a touch of avian sass.

The underparts offer a lovely contrast. The throat is a subtle grey, giving way to a yellowish breast and a bright yellow abdomen. Their short, black bill is balanced by a pale base on the lower mandible, a small detail that birders love.

A Vocal Virtuoso: Listen for the Song

While the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet may be small, their voice is anything but. Their song varies geographically, with northern populations offering a series of plaintive whistled “teew, teew, teew” notes. However, here in Costa Rica, listen for a much different melody – a descending sputtering trill that adds a vibrant layer to the morning chorus.

Habitat Hopping: Where to Find the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet

The beauty of this little bird is that you don’t have to venture far to find them. The Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet is incredibly adaptable, at home in a variety of wooded habitats. Whether you’re exploring the dry scrublands or venturing to the edges of the rainforest, you might encounter this feathered friend. They seem particularly fond of second growth areas, so keep an eye out as you explore the lush surroundings of our retreat.

A Busy Life: Behavior of the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet

The Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet is a true live wire. They are constantly on the move, flitting from branch to branch, their bushy crest bobbing as they go. Keen insectivores, they are adept hunters, perching on exposed branches and scanning for their next meal. Once they spot a tasty insect, they launch into a dazzling display of acrobatics, snatching their prey mid-air.

These little dynamos are often seen in pairs or small groups, flitting through the trees in a flurry of activity. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might even witness territorial disputes – a burst of feathery fury as they chase away competitors.

The Importance of the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet

This little bird plays a vital role in the Costa Rican ecosystem. By preying on insects, they help control insect populations, keeping the natural balance in check. Their presence also acts as an indicator of a healthy environment.

So, next time you’re here at our Costa Rican retreat, take a moment to appreciate the Southern Beardless-Tyrannulet. This tiny titan might be easy to miss, but with a little patience and a keen eye, you might just spot this little ball of energy flitting through the trees, adding its own melody to the vibrant tapestry of life in the Costa Rican mountains.

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

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