Our secluded mountain retreat here in Costa Rica offers a symphony of sights and sounds unlike any other. From the vibrant calls of toucans to the delicate hum of hummingbirds, the Costa Rican rainforest brims with life. Today, we turn our attention to a rather raucous resident of the forest canopy, the Red-throated Caracara.

A Striking Socialite

Imagine a bird with a wingspan that stretches nearly two feet, a plumage of slate grey accented by a crisp white belly, and a face and throat that burst with a vibrant red. This, my friends, is the Red-throated Caracara (Ibycter americanus). Unlike its solitary caracara cousins, the Red-throated Caracara thrives in social groups of four to eight individuals. Their loud, incessant calls often pierce the rainforest air, announcing their presence and perhaps gossiping about the latest forest happenings.

The Art of the Larval Lunch

While caracaras are typically known for their scavenging habits, the Red-throated Caracara takes a unique approach to its diet. This bird’s true passion lies in the world of wasps and bees, particularly their wriggling larvae. With a keen eye for spotting nests tucked within the forest canopy, the Red-throated Caracara employs a fascinating technique. They’ll use their powerful beaks to knock down these unsuspecting homes, sending cascades of honeycomb and grubs plummeting to the forest floor. Once the feast has landed, the caracaras swoop down to enjoy a protein-rich, wriggling meal.

A Forest Feast Beyond the Buzz

But the Red-throated Caracara isn’t a one-trick pony when it comes to cuisine. While wasp and bee larvae are their primary indulgence, they’re also known to indulge in a buffet of other delights. Adult insects, fruits, and berries all find their way onto the caracara’s menu, making them important players in maintaining the delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem.

A Glimpse of Paradise

While the Red-throated Caracara isn’t as common as some Costa Rican birds, their presence adds a touch of drama and intrigue to the rainforest. Here at our mountain retreat, nestled within the lush embrace of the Costa Rican mountains, you might just be lucky enough to witness a group of these social soarers soaring through the trees or hear their raucous calls echoing through the forest.

Keep an eye out for future posts!

As we continue our exploration of the incredible avian diversity of Costa Rica, be sure to stay tuned for our next blog post where we’ll delve into the life of another fascinating feathered friend.

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

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)