Here at Hotel Rivel, nature’s wonders surround us. From the towering peaks to the vibrant flora, our mountain retreat offers a haven for Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity. Today, we set our sights on a resident of the lower and middle forests – the intriguing Carmiol’s Tanager (Chlorothraupis carmioli).

A Chunky Delight

Unlike the brightly colored tanagers that flit through the Costa Rican canopy, the Carmiol’s Tanager boasts a more subdued appearance. This chunky bird is entirely olive-green, with a hint of yellowish green on its throat and upper breast. Both males and females share this plumage, making them indistinguishable to the untrained eye.

Spotting the Secretive Songster

While not the most visually arresting bird, the Carmiol’s Tanager makes its presence known through its vocalizations. Listen for their loud, fast-paced songs, a unique blend of whistles and chips. These energetic melodies often include grating, squeaky scold calls, making them quite recognizable once you’ve heard them.

Spotting these birds can be a challenge. They tend to move in small flocks through the understory and middle levels of the humid forests. Their olive-green plumage provides excellent camouflage amidst the foliage. However, their foraging habits might give them away.

Following the Flock

Carmiol’s Tanagers are social birds, often joining mixed feeding flocks with other tanager species and insectivores. Keeping a keen eye on these mixed groups can lead you to discover the Carmiol’s Tanager cleverly hidden amongst them.

Habitat Haven

Here at Hotel Rivel, nestled within the mountains, we offer prime Carmiol’s Tanager habitat. The humid forests that sprawl around our retreat provide the perfect environment for these secretive birds. If you’re an avid birder, venturing into these forests with a guided nature walk might just lead you to encounter this intriguing tanager.

Beyond the Olive Green

While their plumage may not be the flashiest, the Carmiol’s Tanager plays a vital role in the Costa Rican ecosystem. Their diet consists mainly of insects and fruits, helping to control insect populations and disperse seeds.

Listen, Look, and Learn

Next time you explore the verdant rainforests around Hotel Rivel, keep your ears tuned for the Carmiol’s Tanager’s distinctive song. With a little patience and a watchful eye, you might just catch a glimpse of this special resident flitting through the understory. The Carmiol’s Tanager may be a challenge to spot, but the thrill of discovery makes encountering this unique bird an unforgettable experience.

Come Experience the Magic

Hotel Rivel offers the perfect base to embark on your Costa Rican birding adventure. Our expert guides can help you navigate the lush rainforests and point you towards hidden avian gems like the Carmiol’s Tanager. Book your stay today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime!

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

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