Here at our Costa Rican retreat, nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we take pride in showcasing the symphony of life that thrives around us. Today, we turn our gaze skyward, to a magnificent avian kleptoparasite – the Parasitic Jaeger (Stercorarius parasiticus).
While not a permanent resident, this incredible seabird graces our Costa Rican skies during its migratory journeys. So, if you’re lucky enough to be here during the winter months (November to April), keep your eyes peeled for this master thief of the feathered kind.
A Global Wanderer:
The Parasitic Jaeger is a true citizen of the world. It breeds in the high Arctic tundra, stretching from Northern Canada and Alaska across to Siberia and Iceland. Come winter, these birds embark on an epic migration, soaring across vast stretches of ocean to reach their wintering grounds in the Southern Hemisphere.
For some Parasitic Jaegers, this journey brings them to the rich waters off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Here, they become thrilling aerial visitors, gracing us with their presence for a few months before continuing their travels.
The Art of Kleptoparasitism:
The Parasitic Jaeger’s most striking characteristic is its unique feeding strategy – kleptoparasitism. These birds don’t primarily hunt for their own food. Instead, they employ a fascinating tactic of harassing and intimidating other seabirds, particularly terns, gulls, and boobies.
Imagine a scene: a tern dives into the ocean, emerging with a fish in its beak. Suddenly, a sleek Parasitic Jaeger swoops in, its piercing calls echoing across the sky. The tern, startled and threatened, often regurgitates its catch in mid-air. The swift Parasitic Jaeger swoops down and snatches the fish before it even hits the water – a successful act of avian piracy!
More Than Just a Bully:
While kleptoparasitism is a significant part of their diet, Parasitic Jaegers are not above hunting for their own food. They readily scavenge carrion, snatch up small mammals and insects, and even consume berries and carrion. This opportunistic feeding strategy ensures their survival throughout their extensive travels.
Spotting the Aerial Acrobats:
Parasitic Jaegers are medium-sized seabirds, measuring around 20 inches in length. They have a dark brown body with a pale breast and a distinctive white patch on each wing. Their powerful, hooked beaks and sharp talons are perfect for their thieving ways.
If you’re fortunate enough to spot a Parasitic Jaeger during your stay with us, keep an eye out for their incredible aerial acrobatics. They are masters of maneuverability, often performing spectacular stoops and dives to harass their targets and snatch their meals.
A Transient Treasure:
The Parasitic Jaeger’s presence in Costa Rica is a fleeting wonder. But its aerial acrobatics, fascinating feeding strategy, and impressive migratory journey make it a truly remarkable bird to encounter. So, the next time you gaze up at the Costa Rican sky, keep an eye out for this avian pirate – a testament to the remarkable diversity of life that graces our beautiful country.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
