Even with hundreds of resident bird species calling Costa Rica home, some feathered friends grace us with their presence only during specific times of the year. The Long-billed Curlew is one such visitor, arriving on our Pacific shores during their southbound migration. So, keep your eyes peeled on the mudflats and beaches if you’re visiting between September and April, because you might just spot this fascinating shorebird.
A Striking Silhouette
The Long-billed Curlew is unmistakable. It’s the largest shorebird regularly seen in North America, and its impressive size translates to Costa Rica’s shores as well. Imagine a bird reaching 20-26 inches in length, with a wingspan stretching over 3 feet. But the most striking feature is undoubtedly the bill – a marvel of evolution, long, slender, and gracefully curved downwards, reaching lengths of up to 9 inches! This bill is perfectly adapted for probing deep into mud and sand, allowing the Curlew to extract hidden treats like worms, crustaceans, and insects.
Spotting a Curlew
While Long-billed Curlews can be found along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica, the Pacific coast offers better chances of encountering them. Look for them in open areas like mudflats, estuaries, beaches, and even saltpans. Their buff-colored bodies with a warm cinnamon wash on the wings make them well-camouflaged against sandy backgrounds. But their long legs and, of course, that extraordinary bill, often give them away.
A Life on the Move
The Long-billed Curlew’s life revolves around migration. They breed in the grasslands of central and western North America, and come fall, they embark on a long journey south. Costa Rica falls within their wintering grounds, offering them a haven for several months before they head back north in the spring.
A Call Like No Other
If you’re lucky enough to spot a Curlew, listen carefully. Their distinctive call, a clear, whistled “cur-lee!”, often betrays their presence before you even see them. This call serves multiple purposes, from communication within flocks to defending territories.
A Conservation Concern
The Long-billed Curlew was once a common sight. However, habitat loss and degradation in both their breeding and wintering grounds have caused population declines. While the species is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN, conservation efforts are underway to ensure these magnificent birds continue their graceful migrations for years to come.
Witnessing a Wonder
Spotting a Long-billed Curlew on the pristine shores of Costa Rica is a truly special experience. Their impressive size, unique bill, and fascinating life cycle make them a captivating addition to the country’s avifauna. So, next time you’re on the coast during the migratory season, keep an eye out for these remarkable visitors. With a little patience, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this avian marvel.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
