Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, enveloped by lush rainforest and echoing with the symphony of nocturnal creatures, you might encounter a truly unforgettable resident: the Crested Owl. With its striking appearance and otherworldly calls, this magnificent bird is sure to leave a lasting impression.

A Crown of Feathers:

As its name suggests, the Crested Owl is easily identified by its spectacular headgear. Unlike other owls with rounded heads, this medium-sized wonder boasts a pair of long, white or buff-colored ear tufts that project dramatically from its head. These “eyebrows” extend from a prominent whitish eyestripe, creating a stern, almost regal expression.

A Master of the Night:

The Crested Owl is a strictly nocturnal bird, meaning its peak activity occurs under the cloak of darkness. During the day, you might catch a glimpse of this elusive creature perched motionless in the dense forest canopy, its cryptic plumage – a mix of dark chocolate-brown or rufous-brown – providing excellent camouflage. But as dusk descends, the Crested Owl comes alive.

With its exceptional eyesight and hearing, it hunts for prey amongst the rainforest foliage. Its diet consists primarily of large insects like beetles and caterpillars, but it can also take down small vertebrates like rodents and lizards.

A Haunting Call:

While spotting a Crested Owl can be challenging due to its nocturnal habits, you might be lucky enough to hear its distinctive call echoing through the mountains. Described as a deep, frog-like croak, it’s a sound both haunting and strangely beautiful. The owl often repeats this call every 5-10 seconds, making it a helpful clue to its location.

A Creature of the Rainforest:

The Crested Owl is a resident bird, meaning it doesn’t migrate and remains in the same general area year-round. Here at our mountain retreat, nestled within the rainforest ecosystem, we are fortunate to provide a perfect habitat for this unique owl. It prefers old-growth forests, particularly those close to water sources, and thrives in the dense vegetation that offers excellent shelter and hunting grounds.

Conservation Conscious:

The Crested Owl, thankfully, is considered a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. However, habitat loss due to deforestation remains a threat. By protecting the rainforest surrounding our retreat, we not only provide a sanctuary for the Crested Owl but also contribute to the overall health and biodiversity of this irreplaceable ecosystem.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter:

If you’re lucky enough to spot or hear the Crested Owl during your stay at our Costa Rican retreat, consider yourself privileged. This magnificent creature is a true symbol of the rainforest’s wonders, and its presence adds a touch of magic to your mountain experience.

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