Our mountain retreat here in Costa Rica offers not only stunning vistas and tranquil rainforests, but also an unparalleled opportunity to witness the incredible diversity of birdlife. Today, we turn our attention to a nocturnal resident, the aptly named Short-tailed Nighthawk (Lurocalis semitorquatus).

While you won’t find them flitting about during your morning yoga session, these fascinating creatures are quite common throughout Costa Rica, inhabiting a range that stretches from Mexico down to Argentina.

A Master of Camouflage

The Short-tailed Nighthawk is a member of the nightjar family, and with good reason. Their plumage is a masterpiece of camouflage, with a mottled blend of dark browns, buffs, and rufous speckles that allows them to disappear seamlessly into the bark of trees during the day. Their relatively large size (around 8 inches long) is masked by their exceptional perching habits, where they sit upright with their short tails pressed against the branch.

Nighttime Hunters

As dusk falls, the Short-tailed Nighthawk comes alive. With wide, owl-like eyes and large mouths, they take flight to become aerial insectivores. Their powerful wings allow for agile maneuvers as they snatch flying insects like moths, termites, and beetles. Their short beaks are equipped with bristles that act as flytraps, guiding prey into their waiting mouths.

A Song in the Darkness

While not known for elaborate melodies, the Short-tailed Nighthawk does possess a distinctive vocalization. Listen for a loud, buzzy trill that they use to communicate with each other, particularly during the breeding season.

Finding the Short-tailed Nighthawk

While you won’t see them perched during the day at our mountain retreat, their presence can be felt in the nighttime chorus. Head out after dark and listen for their calls echoing through the valley. Short-tailed Nighthawks are more commonly found in lowland areas with open spaces, so birding expeditions closer to the coast or in the Central Valley region might offer better chances of a sighting.

Not Just a Pretty Face

The Short-tailed Nighthawk plays a vital role in the Costa Rican ecosystem. By preying on large quantities of insects, they help control populations and maintain a healthy balance. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy environment.

So, the next time you’re in Costa Rica and hear an unusual trill pierce the night sky, remember the Short-tailed Nighthawk, a master of disguise and a vital cog in the intricate web of life.

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