Welcome back, birding enthusiasts, to another exciting encounter with the phenomenal feathered residents of Hotel Rivel! Today, we venture into the realm of the quirky and social Groove-billed Ani (Crotophaga sulcirostris). Don’t be fooled by their seemingly plain black attire; these boisterous birds are a delight to observe, with interesting habits and a surprisingly vocal repertoire.

A Distinctive Beak

The Groove-billed Ani is a member of the cuckoo family, but it lacks the flamboyant plumage of some of its relatives. Instead, it boasts a sleek, completely black body, roughly 34 cm (13 in) long. The true eye-catcher is their undeniably oversized, curved beak. This impressive bill isn’t just for show – those distinctive grooves along its upper mandible help them forage effectively for food.

Spotting a Tijo

Listen for the lively chatter before you catch a glimpse of these energetic birds. In Costa Rica, they’re known as “tijos,” a fitting name derived from their loud, two-toned call – a clear “TEE-ho, TEE-ho!” Look for them flitting about in small flocks, crashing awkwardly but endearingly through the understory of the rainforest. They favor open and semi-open habitats, particularly in the tropical lowlands and foothills, so keep your eyes peeled as you explore the lush grounds of Hotel Rivel.

A Life of Cooperation

Unlike many solitary birds, Groove-billed Anis are highly social creatures. They live in cooperative breeding groups, where several females will lay eggs in a single nest and all members of the group participate in raising the chicks. This communal effort ensures a higher chick survival rate. Watching these animated groups squabbling playfully or working together to find food is a fascinating display of avian cooperation.

A Feast for the Forager

The Groove-billed Ani is an opportunistic feeder, with a diet that includes insects, fruits, and even small lizards. Their large beaks are adept at tearing into grubs and extracting juicy berries. They also play a vital role in the ecosystem by helping to control insect populations.

A Sight (and Sound) to Behold

While their plumage may not be the most dazzling, the Groove-billed Ani’s charm lies in its unabashed personality and fascinating social behavior. Their loud calls and energetic movements will surely capture your attention as you explore the trails around Hotel Rivel. Keep an eye out for these gregarious birds, and you might just witness a remarkable display of avian cooperation amidst the vibrant Costa Rican rainforest.

Have you encountered the Groove-billed Ani on your Costa Rican adventures? Share your sightings with us in the comments below!

Coming up next: We delve into the world of the resplendent quetzal, a true jewel of the Costa Rican cloud forest. Stay tuned!

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

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