High up in the Costa Rican canopy, flitting amongst the leaves, lives a little wonder – the Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant. This diminutive denizen of the forest might be easy to miss, but for the keen-eyed adventurer at our mountain retreat, a sighting of this feathered friend is a true delight.

Smaller Than a Golf Ball

The Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant, with its scientific name Myiornis atricapillus, is the undisputed king (or perhaps, more fittingly, prince) of compactness in the Costa Rican passerine world. At a mere 6.5 cm long and weighing a featherlight 5.2 grams, it’s no bigger than a golf ball! Despite its size, this little tyrant boasts a surprisingly bold personality.

Sharp Looks for a Tiny Bird

Look for a flash of contrasting colors as you explore the forest edges and second growth areas near our retreat. The Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant lives up to its name with a jet-black crown that stands out against its olive-green back. But the most distinctive feature is its charming “spectacles” – a bright white ring around the eyes. The underparts are a delightful contrast, with a clean white throat and chest that fades to a subtle grey on the flanks and a pale yellow belly.

Spotting a Pygmy Masterclass

While the Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant might be tiny, its presence is anything but subtle. Keep an ear out for its vocal repertoire, a series of sharp chirps and whistles that echo through the trees. These calls are a great way to pinpoint their location, even if you can’t see them at first glance.

Patience is key when searching for this little gem. While they can be found high up in the canopy, they also venture down to lower branches and forest edges, making them more accessible to watchful observers.

A Glimpse into the Pygmy’s Life

The Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant is an insectivore, expertly hawking after flying prey from perches or sallying forth in mid-air to snatch a tasty morsel. They are territorial birds, and you might even witness them chasing away larger birds that dare to enter their domain.

During breeding season, the Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant builds a cup-shaped nest in a sheltered nook, often tucked away in the dense foliage. Both parents share incubation duties and the joys of raising their tiny chicks.

A Tiny Testament to Costa Rica’s Biodiversity

The Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant is a wonderful example of the incredible avian diversity that Costa Rica boasts. Their presence in the mountain forests surrounding our retreat adds a touch of magic to the environment. So, next time you’re exploring the lush trails, keep your eyes peeled and your ears open for this little wonder of the rainforest. A sighting of the Black-capped Pygmy-Tyrant is sure to be a highlight of your Costa Rican adventure!

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

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