While our mountain retreat offers breathtaking views and an abundance of rainforest wonders, Costa Rica’s avian diversity extends far beyond the jungle canopy. Today, we set our sights on the ocean, exploring the fascinating Black Storm Petrel, a master of the high seas that occasionally graces our Pacific shores.

A Creature of the Open Ocean:

Unlike many of the birds you might encounter at our retreat, the Black Storm Petrel (Hydrobates melania) is a true child of the open ocean. This small seabird, measuring just 23 cm in length, spends most of its life soaring tirelessly above the waves, rarely venturing close to land. But for those lucky enough to be on the coast during the breeding season, the Black Storm Petrel might put on an unforgettable display.

Masters of Maneuvering:

Black Storm Petrels are aptly named. Their dark plumage, black all over except for a white rump, blends beautifully with the ocean depths. Their wings, with a span of up to 51 cm, are long and slender, allowing for incredibly agile flight. Watch in awe as they skim the waves, seemingly defying gravity with their deep, powerful wingbeats. They dance on the wind, dipping and gliding effortlessly, a testament to their mastery of the aerial currents.

A Life on the Move:

The Black Storm Petrel is a true wanderer. Unlike other storm petrels that typically have one wintering ground, this remarkable bird utilizes two! During the breeding season, they find refuge on rocky islands off the coast of western Mexico. But once breeding is complete, they embark on a fascinating migration pattern. Part of the population heads north towards the California Current, while others travel south towards Central and South America, as far as Colombia and Ecuador. This unique double migration is thought to be a strategy to avoid the hurricane season in their breeding grounds.

A Glimpse of the Ocean Realm:

While sightings from our mountain retreat are unlikely, if you find yourself on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, particularly in southern regions like the Osa Peninsula or Corcovado National Park, keep your eyes peeled for the Black Storm Petrel. Look for them near dawn or dusk, when they are most active, skimming the waves and feeding on zooplankton and small fish.

Seeing a Black Storm Petrel is a truly special experience. It’s a window into the lives of these remarkable ocean wanderers, a testament to the incredible diversity of Costa Rica’s birdlife, both in the mountains and on the vast, wild coast.

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