Here at our Costa Rican retreat nestled amidst the emerald embrace of the mountains, we take pride in sharing the wonders of our biodiversity with you. Today, we turn our gaze to a magnificent resident of the rainforest canopy, the Crested Guan.

Adorned with a captivating crown, the Crested Guan (Penelope purpurascens) is a captivating member of the Cracidae family, distantly related to the turkeys you might see strutting around farmyards. Standing tall at 76 to 91.5 cm (30 to 36 inches) and weighing a proud 1.6 to 2.4 kg (3.5 to 5.3 lbs), this impressive bird is a sight to behold.

A Look Like No Other

Both males and females of the Crested Guan share a similar plumage, a dusky olive brown that shimmers with a faint greenish or purplish iridescence – a dazzling display when the sunlight catches their feathers just right. Their underparts boast a rich chestnut belly and crissum, while the feathers on their breast and belly are edged with a touch of elegant white.

But the true showstopper is the impressive crest that graces their head. This bushy crown of feathers adds an air of regality, making the Crested Guan a true avian monarch of the rainforest. Their faces are adorned with grayish bare skin around the eyes, further accentuated by a pair of bright red wattles and dewlaps on their throats – a vibrant splash of color that adds to their distinctive appearance.

A Life Among the Leaves

The Crested Guan is a quintessential arboreal bird, meaning they spend most of their days perched high up in the lush foliage of the rainforest canopy. Adept climbers and walkers, they navigate the branches with grace, searching for the fruits, leaves, and flowers that make up their diet.

These social birds are often seen in pairs or family groups of up to 6-12 individuals. Their calls, a loud, booming series of “whrroo-whrroo” sounds, can often be heard echoing through the rainforest, a testament to their presence hidden amongst the leaves.

A Species of Concern

While the Crested Guan is not currently classified as endangered, it is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN. Habitat loss due to deforestation is a major concern for this magnificent bird. Here at our Costa Rican retreat, we are committed to sustainable practices that protect the rainforest ecosystem and the incredible biodiversity it shelters.

Spotting the Crested Guan

While the Crested Guan can be elusive, keeping your eyes peeled on the upper levels of the rainforest canopy during your nature walks might just reward you with a glimpse of this feathered wonder. Their loud calls can also be a good indicator of their presence.

With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just be lucky enough to witness the Crested Guan in all its glory, a true testament to the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica’s avian life.

Come experience the magic for yourself!

Our mountain retreat offers the perfect base to explore the wonders of the Costa Rican rainforest. With its towering trees and lush vegetation, it provides the ideal habitat for the Crested Guan and countless other bird species. Book your stay with us and embark on a journey of discovery into the heart of nature’s paradise.

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

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)