Here at our Costa Rican mountain retreat, the symphony of the rainforest surrounds you. But amidst the chorus of calls and songs, some birds stand out for their striking appearance and vocalizations. Today, we turn our binoculars to a charismatic resident of the mid-story and upper canopy: the White-fronted Nunbird.
A Bird Dressed for the Part
True to its name, the White-fronted Nunbird (Monasa morphoeus) boasts a distinctive white patch adorning its forehead, contrasting sharply with its dark brown crown. This “nun’s veil” extends down the sides of the face, framing a bright red bill. The rest of the plumage is a study in contrasts – rich chestnut red cloaks the underparts, while the upper body and wings are a deep, almost black, brown. Keen eyes will spot a flash of white on the chin, completing the elegant ensemble.
A Creature of the Forest
The White-fronted Nunbird is a fairly large bird, reaching lengths of up to 25 centimeters (9.8 inches). It inhabits a variety of forested areas within Costa Rica, from the lowland rainforests to the foothills where our retreat is nestled. You might encounter them in terra firme forests, those that are not seasonally flooded, or even in secondary forests that have regenerated after disturbance. Surprisingly adaptable, they can also be found in partly cleared areas, shaded cacao plantations, and even abandoned clearings with a few scattered trees.
While their range extends from Honduras down to Bolivia, here in Costa Rica, you’ll find them primarily in the lowlands, typically below 300 meters (980 feet) in elevation. However, their altitudinal tolerance increases as you travel further north, reaching up to 750 meters (2,500 feet) in Panama.
A Life in the Trees
The White-fronted Nunbird is an arboreal bird, meaning it spends most of its time perched on branches within the forest canopy. Here, they patiently observe their surroundings, scanning for prey. They are insectivores, with their diet consisting mainly of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates they glean from the leaves and branches. Their sharp eyesight and powerful bill make them adept hunters.
A Vocal Leader
The White-fronted Nunbird is not a shy bird. Their loud, raucous calls can often be heard echoing through the forest. These vocalizations, described as “squawking” and “rollicking,” serve multiple purposes. They help to establish territories, maintain communication within pairs or family groups, and might even attract other bird species to feeding areas, with the White-fronted Nunbird acting as a sort of feathered flock leader.
A Sight (and Sound) to Behold
If you’re fortunate enough to spot a White-fronted Nunbird perched on a branch, take a moment to appreciate its regal bearing and contrasting colors. Keep your ears open for their distinctive calls, for they might just lead you to this charismatic resident of the Costa Rican rainforest canopy.
So, next time you’re exploring the trails around our mountain retreat, keep your eyes peeled and your ears tuned. The White-fronted Nunbird, with its striking appearance and vocal presence, might just become a highlight of your Costa Rican birding adventure.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
