Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, we take pride in the incredible biodiversity that surrounds us. But while many of the birds you’ll encounter here are vibrant residents of the tropics, occasionally, a fascinating visitor graces our skies with its presence – the Long-tailed Jaeger.
This slender seabird, more at home in the vastness of the Arctic Ocean, might seem like an oddity in our mountain paradise. But during their migrations, sometimes these opportunistic predators take a detour, offering a rare glimpse into their unique lifestyle.
A Master of the Open Ocean
The Long-tailed Jaeger is the smallest member of the jaeger family, known for their aggressive tactics in acquiring food. With a wingspan reaching up to 58 cm (23 in) and a weight of around 300 grams (10.5 oz), it cuts a graceful figure in the air. Adults are unmistakable with their sleek, dark bodies contrasted by a neat black cap and a white chest. But the true showstopper is their namesake – a pair of long, pointed central tail feathers that extend far beyond the rest during breeding season.
Unlike many birds you’ll find in Costa Rica, the Long-tailed Jaeger spends most of its life far from land. They’re true ocean nomads, venturing thousands of kilometers across the open waters. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot potential meals from afar, be it fish flitting near the surface or other seabirds carrying their hard-won catch.
A Pirate of the Skies
Jaegers are infamous for their kleptoparasitic behavior – stealing food from other birds. The Long-tailed Jaeger is no exception. They’ll chase terns, gulls, and even boobies, harassing them until they regurgitate their meal, which the jaeger then snatches mid-air. This opportunistic strategy allows them to conserve energy while still acquiring a nutritious meal.
A fleeting Visitor
Spotting a Long-tailed Jaeger in Costa Rica is a rare treat. Their preferred habitat lies far north in the Arctic tundra, where they breed during the summer months. During their non-breeding season, they migrate south, with some individuals venturing as far as the Southern Hemisphere. Occasionally, their journey takes them through Central American waters, offering a fleeting glimpse of their agile flight and impressive hunting skills.
While you might not see them every day, the chance encounter with a Long-tailed Jaeger adds another layer of wonder to the birding experience at our Costa Rican retreat. It’s a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet and the extraordinary journeys these feathered wanderers undertake.
Keep an eye out! While sightings are uncommon, with a little patience and a good pair of binoculars, you might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of this magnificent Arctic visitor soaring through the Costa Rican skies.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
