High up in the canopy of the Costa Rican rainforest, a flash of emerald green catches your eye. It’s the Rufous-tailed Jacamar, a dazzling near-passerine bird with a surprisingly long, black bill that gives it an air of regality. This little wonder is a common sight at our mountain retreat, flitting amongst the leaves in its never-ending quest for tasty insects.
A Look Like No Other
Standing at a petite 26-27 centimeters tall, the Rufous-tailed Jacamar boasts a plumage that is both beautiful and practical. Its back and crown are a stunning iridescent copper-green, shimmering with an otherworldly sheen as sunlight filters through the leaves. This green camouflage blends perfectly with the rainforest foliage, making it nearly invisible to predators.
The underparts tell a different story. The chest is a warm honey-brown, creating a delightful contrast with the green upperparts. But the true showstopper is the tail. As the name suggests, it’s a vibrant rufous (reddish-brown) color, adding a pop of color that makes the Jacamar stand out when perched.
A King Amongst Hummingbirds (Sort Of)
The Jacamar’s long, pointed bill might have you mistaking it for a hummingbird. Nicknamed the “king hummingbird” by some, the Jacamar does share some similarities with its smaller cousins. Both are insectivores, flitting from perch to perch in search of their next meal. However, the Jacamar’s bill is much sturdier, designed for capturing larger prey like butterflies, dragonflies, and even wasps.
Spotting a Rufous-Tailed Jacamar
These little hunters favor the humid tropical lowlands, particularly the edges of evergreen forests and clearings. While they’re not shy birds, they can be difficult to spot due to their excellent camouflage. Your best bet is to listen for their loud, high-pitched shrieking calls, which often betray their location.
Once you do find one, take a moment to appreciate its beauty. Watch as it perches upright on a vine, its head constantly swiveling as it scans for prey. See how it sallies out from its perch with impressive agility, its long bill snapping shut on an unsuspecting insect.
The Rufous-tailed Jacamar is a true gem of the Costa Rican rainforest, a bird that embodies the vibrancy and wonder of this incredible ecosystem. The next time you visit our mountain retreat, keep your eyes peeled for this dazzling avian acrobat. With a little patience and a keen ear, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this feathered wonder.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
