High in the canopy, a flurry of feathers flits from branch to branch. Its sharp eyes scan the leaves, its tiny beak poised for action. This energetic resident of the Costa Rican mountains is the Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, a captivating little bird with a surprising song.

A Splendid Splash of Color

While diminutive in size (barely reaching 4 inches!), the Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet boasts a beautiful plumage. Its head is a cool, smoky gray, offset by a bright white eyebrow that stretches like a surprised arch above its eye. A flash of sunshine yellow adorns the crown, though catching a glimpse of it can be a fleeting pleasure as this little bird rarely stays still. The underparts are a warm, buttery yellow, contrasting with the olive-green back and wings. Bold white wingbars add another dash of character to its appearance.

A Master of the Canopy

The Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet is most at home in the leafy embrace of the rainforest canopy. Here, it flits amongst the branches with impressive agility, its small size allowing it to navigate the dense foliage with ease. Though primarily found in the mountains of Costa Rica, it can also be spotted in the foothills and even some heavily degraded forests, making it a potential companion on your retreat adventures.

Listen for the “Free Beer” Song

While the Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet may be a champion of camouflage, its presence is often betrayed by its distinctive song. Often referred to as the “Free Beer” bird by locals, its high-pitched, whistled call – “dee-DEER!” – rings through the forest canopy. This simple yet charming melody is the most reliable way to identify this tiny songbird.

An Insectivorous Powerhouse

The Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, like many flycatchers, is an insectivore. Its sharp eyes scan the leaves for unsuspecting prey, and with a burst of lightning-fast agility, it snatches them up in its slender beak. From tiny midges to grasshoppers, this little bird plays a vital role in keeping the rainforest insect population in check.

A Tiny Treasure of the Mountains

A sighting of the Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet is a delightful reward for those exploring the mountain forests of Costa Rica. Its vibrant colors, energetic flitting, and charming song make it a captivating addition to the rich tapestry of avian life you’ll encounter on your retreat. So, keep your eyes peeled (and ears tuned!) as you venture into the rainforest canopy, and you might just catch a glimpse of this tiny dynamo.

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

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