High in the canopy, a flash of olive green catches your eye. Perched regally on a dead branch, the Olive-sided Flycatcher surveys its domain. This fascinating resident of Costa Rica’s mountain forests is a true marvel for birders and nature enthusiasts alike.

A Master of the Hunt

The Olive-sided Flycatcher, classified as Contopus cooperi, belongs to the Tyrannidae family, also known as Tyrant Flycatchers. Though “tyrant” might sound imposing, this little bird is anything but cruel. It’s a master hunter, using its sharp eyes and agile wings to dominate the skies.

Imagine this: perched upright on the highest point of a dead tree, the Olive-sided Flycatcher becomes a silent sentinel. With a keen eye, it spots a hapless insect flitting through the air. In a flash of green, the bird launches itself in pursuit, its powerful wings propelling it with surprising speed. The insect barely has a chance – the Flycatcher snatches it mid-flight with its sharp bill and returns to its perch, ready for the next meal.

A Vested Wonder

Spotting an Olive-sided Flycatcher is a treat for the eyes. While not the most vibrantly colored bird, its unique markings make it instantly recognizable. At roughly 6.5 inches tall, it’s the largest of the “pewee” flycatchers found in Costa Rica.

Look for an olive-green back that contrasts beautifully with a grayish-brown head. The most striking feature, however, is the “vest.” A broad band of grayish-white streaks across the chest creates the illusion of a tiny feathered waistcoat, making this little hunter look distinguished and assertive.

A Song of Conquest

The Olive-sided Flycatcher isn’t shy about announcing its presence. Its loud, piercing call, often described as a three-part whistle (“quick, three beers!”), echoes through the mountains. This vocal display serves a dual purpose – attracting mates and defending territory.

The Flycatcher is fiercely protective of its nesting grounds, and its calls serve as a warning to rivals and predators. They’ve even been known to chase away much larger birds, showcasing their feisty spirit.

A Long and Challenging Journey

The Olive-sided Flycatcher is a migratory wonder. These birds breed in the mountains of Costa Rica and much of North America during the summer months. Come winter, they embark on a remarkable journey, traveling thousands of miles south to warmer regions in South America.

The incredible distances they cover, coupled with habitat loss in their wintering grounds, have unfortunately contributed to a decline in their population. The Olive-sided Flycatcher is currently classified as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN.

Spotting the Olive-sided Flycatcher at our Retreat

Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, we’re fortunate to have Olive-sided Flycatchers as frequent visitors. Their preferred habitat – coniferous forests with open areas and dead trees – makes our mountainous location ideal for them.

So, keep your eyes peeled as you explore the trails. With a little patience and a keen eye, you might just spot this fascinating little hunter perched high above, surveying its domain with a watchful eye.

Listen closely, and you might even hear its distinctive call echoing through the mountain air. It’s a melody that reminds us of the resilience and beauty of the natural world around us.

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

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