High in the canopy of Costa Rica’s mountain forests, a flash of cinnamon and black might catch your eye. It’s the Plain Xenops, a tiny acrobat that frequents our retreat here in the heart of the Cordillera Mountains. Though unassuming in its name, this little bird is a marvel of movement and a delightful sight for birdwatchers.

The Plain Xenops, aptly named for its lack of flashy markings, is a member of the Furnariidae family, close relatives to ovenbirds. At only 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 in) long, it’s one of our smaller avian residents. But don’t let its size fool you. This energetic bird is a constant flurry of activity.

A Master of the Climb

Unlike its flashier ovenbird cousins, the Plain Xenops doesn’t construct elaborate mud nests. Instead, it prefers to inhabit the nooks and crannies of the upper forest canopy. With its short, wedge-shaped bill and sharp claws, it’s perfectly adapted for life on the vertical. You’ll see it clambering and clinging to branches, twigs, and vines with impressive agility. It even has a special talent for hanging upside down, much like a chickadee, while meticulously searching for hidden treats.

Spotting the Plain Xenops

The Plain Xenops might not be brightly colored, but it has some key features that make it easy to identify with a good bird guide. Here’s what to look for:

• Subtle Head Markings: Look for a buff or whitish stripe above the eye (supercilium) and a bold white malar stripe running along the cheek.
• Contrasting Plumage: The upperparts are a dull brown or rufous brown, while the underparts are mostly unmarked olive-brown with some buff streaking on the throat.
• Striking Wings and Tail: The wings are a beautiful combination of cinnamon and black, with a prominent ochraceous band across the flight feathers. The tail is also cinnamon, but with a significant amount of black towards the edges.

A Social Butterfly (…of the Bird World)

While the Plain Xenops isn’t shy, you won’t usually find it alone. It’s a social bird, often joining mixed-species feeding flocks that travel through the forest canopy. Keep an eye out for these lively groups as they flit from branch to branch, searching for insects and other invertebrates. You might just spot the Plain Xenops amongst the vibrant tanagers, toucans, and woodcreepers.

A Song on the Breeze

The Plain Xenops’ song is as understated as its appearance. It’s a short, high-pitched trill, often described as liquid or tinkling. While not the most complex melody in the rainforest, it adds a delightful note to the symphony of bird calls that fills the Costa Rican mountains.

Encountering the Plain Xenops at Our Retreat

The Plain Xenops is a resident throughout the mountain ranges of Costa Rica. So, if you’re staying at our retreat, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a glimpse of this fascinating little bird flitting through the trees. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might even spot it hanging upside down, meticulously examining a branch for its next tasty morsel.

The Plain Xenops might not be the most colorful bird in the Costa Rican rainforest, but its acrobatic talents and social nature make it a true delight to observe. So, keep your eyes peeled as you explore the lush forests around our retreat. You never know when this tiny acrobat might put on a show!

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

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