Birds Of Costa Rica: Beautiful Birds In Beautiful Locations

Author, Cynthia Ross Tustin – April 24th, 2023

Birds of Costa Rica. They are as stunning and awe-inspiring as the country itself. In this place, there may actually be more birds than people here! With over 900 species of birds and the fact that it forms a natural land bridge between two oceans and two continents, it’s not at all surprising that this nation is a mecca for birdwatchers.

In this post, I’ll share some of the wonders of birdwatching in Costa Rica, from iconic species to the lesser-known but equally fascinating ones.

I’ll also provide you with a list of locations to pick and choose from for your birdwatching adventures. then I’ll highlight some of the amazing lodges that cater to amateur ornithologists, identify some useful resources, and finish off with some guided tour suggestions if you don’t want to go it alone!

The Wonders of Birdwatching in Costa Rica

Birdwatching is one of the most popular tourist activities worldwide. Costa Rica just seems to be able to amp it up a notch. Perhaps it’s the abundance of magnificent birds. Or it’s the birds combined two oceans, coastal mangroves, volcanic mountains, and lush jungles. Regardless, birdwatching can be part of a fun and exciting vacation. Or it can be the entire purpose of your trip.

And let’s not forget the “one with nature” aspect that adds numerous benefits for your health and well-being. Studies have shown that birdwatching can reduce stress levels, improve cognitive function, and increase feelings of happiness and relaxation.

One of the most coveted birdwatching experiences in Costa Rica occurs in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. It’s here in this portion of the misty jungle, that you can hear the distinctive call of the Resplendent Quetzal. Birders flock here (pun intended) to catch a glimpse of the stunning bird with its iridescent green and red feathers. I’ve been to Costa Rica four times, and I’ve seen this bird six times.

The Monteverde Birdwatching Experience is a stunning, early morning tour on the Curi-Cancha Reserve. The reserve sits at some of the highest elevations in Monteverde, between 4,750 and 5,300 feet (1,450 and 1,615 meters). About half of the land is primary forest and the other half is secondary forest. There are also some cleared areas with flowering and fruiting plants.

The Monteverde Birdwatching Experience is a 4-hour hike, rain or shine. Requires moderate fitness, and is rated 5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜

You can find more details here!

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Want to see what birdwatching in Costa Rica can be like? Check out this YouTube video from my friend over at Bike Hike Botany as she takes some avid birders out to see some of the amazing birds in the Jaco area!

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Top 5 Must-See Birds of Costa Rica

Resplendent Quetzal

The Resplendent Quetzal is the national bird of Costa Rica and one of the most flamboyantly colored birds found here. This tiny bird is about 14 inches long, but most of that is the tail feather. It boasts bright green and red plumage, with iridescent feathers that shimmer in the light. The long, flowing tail feathers (that can actually be as long as three feet in length) were highly prized by the indigenous people of Central America, who used them for ceremonial purposes.

Habitat

The Resplendent Quetzal loves the habitat up in the cloud forests at high altitudes. Here, the air is both cool and moist. These conditions are the perfect environment for the growth of the mosses and ferns that this bird relies on for food. You must go to the Resplendent Quetzal. It will not come to you.

So put on your best hiking shoes, grab some water, and your gear, because this bird takes some effort!

Despite the exercise required to see a Resplendent Quetzal in the wild is well worth the effort. Locals will tell you that the best place to spot these birds is either the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or the Savegre Valley. And if you can to Costa Rica between February and June, which is the breeding season, you might catch the male Resplendent Quetzals performing his elaborate courtship displays.

Check out the Resplendent Quetzal on the Monteverde Birdwatching Experience.

Courting rituals/behaviors of the male Quetzal are reminiscent of the aerial cartwheels done by Bald Eagles during their mating season. The male Quetzal courtship display involves a timed series of calls in combination with some pretty feisty acrobatics. They are capable of flying backward and upside-down with their long tail feathers trailing behind them.

Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect the Resplendent Quetzal and its habitat. The bird is considered a symbol of national pride in Costa Rica.

The Monteverde Birdwatching Experience is a 4-hour hike, rain or shine. Requires moderate fitness, and is rated 5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜

You can find more details here!

Scarlet Macaw

The primary colors, are red yellow, blue, and green, and their markings are so vivid, that they appear almost cartoon-like. At almost 3 feet in length, this is not a small bird. That’s especially true when you add in its 4-foot wing span. The sturdily hooked beak adds to their “cartoon” quality appearance, but it’s really for cracking seeds and jungle nuts.

They use their long tails for balance when perched up in the jungle canopy. And they tend to roost at the top of wild almond trees.

This vulnerable species of bird is indigenous to both Central and South America. They’re easy to spot, but hard to find. Wild Scarlet Macaws in Costa Rica are most commonly “spotted” in either the Carara or Corcovado National Parks. Although as long as there’s a cool thick forest at altitude, you’re likely to see some. You can definitely hear squawking, even in midair as they virtually always fly in pairs or groups. They’re chatty!

These are not carrion birds, they’re herbivores prefer fruits, seeds, nuts, and new buds off certain trees.

Mimicry

Scarlet Macaws, as part of the parrot species, have the ability to mimic. These are very smart birds. They don’t come “hardwired” for vocal development, they learn their vocabulary according to Michael Schindlinger, an assistant professor of biology at Lesley University. They learn from the birds around them. Literally, they have their own local dialect.

In the wild, they learn socially from other birds nearby within their own species. In captivity “they learn from their human social partners,” according to Schindlinger. This is also to help with finding a suitable mate…since they mate for life.

Sadly, like the Resplendent, these birds of Costa Rica are considered to be vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and are on their “red list.” The biggest contributors to this sad dilemma are the loss of habitat due to climate change, deforestation, and urbanization. And also because they have been hunted for their feathers, and captured for the pet industry.

Fortunately, conservation efforts like reforesting, creating safe and protected areas, and instituting breeding programs are helping.

You can take the Carara National Park Birdwatching Private Guided Tour Experience It Rates a 5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜 and this private 6-hour tour includes lunch.

You can find more details here!

Keel-billed Toucan

The beak of any Toucan makes them immediately identifiable! But the Keel-billed (Rainbow-billed) Toucan is the most brightly, multicolored beak of all the Toucans! It’s hard to believe it’s real. And their Crayola-colored feathers stand out dramatically against their jet-black bodies.

And their blue feet are the same color as the Blue-footed Boobies found in the Galapagos Islands. There’s so much for birdwatchers to love!

The Keel-billed Toucan is not sexually dimorphic. Rude!? Not really, this just means that, unlike most bird species, you can’t really tell the difference between males and females. As an example, there are obvious visual differences between male and female chickens. The only discernable difference between the sexes is beak size, the males having slightly larger bills than females.

One of the most unique features of this bird is its ability to flick its tongue in and out of its bill, which it uses to catch insects and fruit.

The Keel-billed Toucan is commonly found in the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica, particularly in the Caribbean lowlands and the Osa Peninsula. They can often be seen perched in the canopy of trees or flying overhead in small groups. These toucans are known for their loud, raucous calls that can be heard from far away.

Early Birds

For bird watchers, the best time to see the Keel-billed Toucan is in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. The bird can be spotted in several national parks and reserves throughout the country, including Corcovado National Park, Tortuguero National Park, and Cahuita National Park.

Despite being a relatively common species in Costa Rica, the Keel-billed Toucan is vulnerable to habitat destruction and fragmentation caused by deforestation and human development. Conservation efforts are being made to protect its natural habitat and promote sustainable tourism practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment. Visitors are encouraged to support these initiatives and appreciate the beauty of this remarkable bird in its natural habitat.

Check out this tour, Cahuita National Park (hiking) plus Tortuguero canals, if you want to go Toucan spotting. It’s rated as 4.5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜. It’s 6 hours of nature’s best, birds, animals, and marine life!

You can find more details here!

Magnificent Frigatebird

The Magnificent Frigatebird is a unique and majestic bird that can be found soaring over the Pacific and Caribbean coasts of Costa Rica. This bird is known for its impressive wingspan, which can reach up to 7.5 feet, making it one of the largest seabirds in the world. The male of the species is easily recognizable by its striking red throat pouch, which it inflates to attract a mate during the breeding season. Despite its large size, the Magnificent Frigatebird is a graceful and agile flyer, using its long, pointed wings to soar for hours without flapping.

In Costa Rica, the Magnificent Frigatebird can be seen year-round, but the best time to spot them is during the breeding season from December to March. The Pacific coast, particularly the Guanacaste region, is a great place to see these birds, as they nest on rocky islands just off the shore. The Caribbean coast, including Tortuguero National Park, is another excellent location to spot these birds. During the breeding season, males can be seen perched on trees or rocks, inflating their red-throat pouches to attract a mate.

Pirates!

The Magnificent Frigatebird is not only impressive in appearance but also in behavior. These birds are known for their pirating behavior, stealing food from other birds such as boobies and terns. They also have a unique reproductive strategy, with males attracting mates by displaying their red-throat pouches while females are busy constructing nests. Once a female has chosen a mate, she will lay a single egg and both parents will take turns incubating it. After hatching, the chick will stay in the nest for several months before fledging.

What is a flock of Frigate birds called?

What are they called? Just what you would expect, a fleet or a flotilla.

In recent years, the Magnificent Frigatebird has faced threats such as habitat loss and degradation, marine pollution, and disturbance from human activities. However, efforts are being made to protect their nesting sites and conserve their populations. As an important species for both ecotourism and the marine ecosystem, it is crucial that we continue to protect and appreciate these magnificent birds in Costa Rica.

Headed to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast? Take a look and see if the Private Rainforest Walk Through the Guanacaste National Park fits into your plans. 6 hours of birdy goodness!

You can find more details here!

White-crowned Parrot

The White-crowned Parrot, also known as the Yellow-naped Parrot, likes it hot and humid. That’s why it thrives in Costa Rica and other parts of Central America. And it loves the Pacific slopes (who doesn’t) according to the Beauty of Birds official website. Experts from this site describe this lovely little bird as “a medium parrot averaging 9 to 10 inches (24 cm) in length and 230 – 260 g in weight.”

They also say that the “males are generally larger and have deeper and more extensive blue than females and have larger heads and beaks.” It’s only the adult males that have distinctive white heads, or “crowns.” Their beautiful plumage and socialness are why this bird is often found in captivity as a pet.

The Beauty of Birds describes their throats as “white, and the rest of the head, neck, and breast are dull dark blue. The belly is light green, and the upper parts are dark green, with a yellow-olive shoulder patch. In flight, the blue underwings and red vent are conspicuous features.” It’s because of these colorings, they are very hard to spot in the Rainforest because, let’s face it, everything is green!

They are social birds and fly and perch together as a flock.

What’s a flock of parrots called?

Glad you asked! A flock of parrots is called a “pandemonium”. Seriously!

In terms of habitat, the White-crowned Parrot is commonly found in tropical and subtropical forests, as well as in savannas and mangrove swamps. They are also known to inhabit agricultural areas, where they feed on crops such as maize, guava, and papaya. Their diet also includes nuts, seeds, and fruit. These parrots have a unique way of feeding; they use their feet to hold their food while they eat.

If you’re birdwatching on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, then Tortuguero and Cahuita National Parks are your best options for seeing these specific birds. Headed to the Pacific coast? Then head to either Carara or Manuel Antonio National Park. All of these parks are full of parrot species.

While the White-crowned Parrot is not currently considered endangered, habitat loss and poaching are threats to their population. They are also popular in the pet trade, which has contributed to their decline in some areas. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitat and limit their capture for the pet trade.

Heading to Quepos? Get more details about the Birdwatching Tour Manuel Antonio / Esquipulas Private Tour here. Rated with 5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜. Not only will your private guide bring your lunch, but they will also keep count of your bird sightings.

You can find more details here!

Lesser-Known But Equally Fascinating Birds

Sunbittern

The Sunbittern (Eurypyga Helias) is a distinctive bird species found in the neotropical region of Central and South America, including Costa Rica. The Sunbittern is distinctive not just for its striking, almost Grouse-like, plumage and Heron-like neck; but also for its “unstriking” plumage.

It has a geometrically bold, black-and-white striped pattern when spreads its wings, and a vivid yellow-orange neck. Then you add in its vivid blue head and you have a truly unique plumage display. This bird stands out in the tropical rainforest until it’s ready to hide. The Sunbittern completely changes the appearance of its feathers when it folds its wings in. When it makes itself “compact”, it blends into the high trees.

This bird primarily walks but will take flight when frightened. So you can see this bird better on the ground than perched in trees.

What’s a flock of Bitterns called?

They’re known as a siege or a pretence.

Habitat

The best places to spot the Sunbittern in Costa Rica are in the country’s well-wooded forests and along shallow streams and rivers in the wetlands. Some of the best locations include the Osa Peninsula, Corcovado National Park, and the Tortuguero Canals. They are hardwired to hide when threatened, but if you’re patient and a knowledgeable guide, you can observe their unique displays and behavior.

The Smithsonian’s Conservation Biology Institute lists them as “least concern” in terms of endangerment. But all birds suffer when they lose habitat and food sources.

Just like the Keel-Billed Toucan, you can look for the Sunbittern on this tour, Cahuita National Park (hiking) plus Tortuguero canals. It’s rated as 4.5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜. It’s 6 hours of nature’s best, birds, animals, and marine life!

You can find more details here!

Three-Wattled Bellbird

The Three-Wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculata, try saying that three times fast!) is a unique and striking bird found in the cloud forests of Central America, including Costa Rica. This large, fruit-eating bird is known for its loud, distinctive calls.

The organization called Birds of the World will tell you that this bird “makes three main vocalizations, “whistle”, “swish”, and a “bong”. And they also have confirmed that a male’s “vocalizations” can reach over 100 decibels when trying to attract a mate. that sound like a bell or a gong. It’s a big deal if you can catch this behavior while birdwatching.

Those three wattles are pretty unique too. Most birds with wattles only ever have two. In the bird world, three is a “lot of bling”. Just FYI, wattles are loose bird skin without feathers. And since birds don’t sweat, they act as a cooling feature.

Furthermore, when they’re engorged (they are 2 inches long after all), some birds find them threatening. That makes their wattles a defensive feature. And of course, the lady Three Wattled Bellbirds find them hot! So that makes them a breeding feature.

The Three-Wattled Bellbird is primarily found in the high-altitude cloud forests of Costa Rica, particularly in the cloud forests of Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota areas. These birds prefer to live in remote areas with thick vegetation, and they can be difficult to spot due to their elusive nature. However, their calls can be heard from a distance, which makes them easier to locate.

Mating Season

The breeding season for Three-Wattled Bellbirds in Costa Rica is from February to July. During this time, males will perch on high branches and perform a unique mating display, where they puff up their feathers, lower their wings, and swing their heads back and forth while making their distinctive bell-like calls. The female bellbirds are less colorful than the males and have a more subdued call.

Due to habitat loss and fragmentation in their range, the Three-Wattled Bellbird is considered to be “vulnerable to extinction” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Their unique calls and appearance make them a popular target for trophy hunting and capture for the pet trade. However, conservation efforts are being made to protect their habitat and ensure their survival in the wild. As a result, visitors to Costa Rica have the opportunity to see this fascinating and endangered bird in its natural habitat.

If you were taking the Monteverde Birdwatching Experience to see the Resplendent Quetzal, then take this tour for a glimpse of the Three-Wattled Bellbird as well. It’s a 4-hour hike, rain or shine. Requires moderate fitness, and is rated 5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜

You can find more details here!

Long-Tailed Silky-Flycatcher

The Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher, scientifically known as Ptilogonys caudatus, is a strikingly beautiful bird found in the cloud forests of Costa Rica. This species has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. Its plumage is mostly blue-gray with a black face mask and a bright yellow-orange underbelly. The bird has a long, flowing tail that is black with white edges, and it also has a distinct crest on top of its head. The male and female have similar coloration, but the male is slightly larger in size.

This species is a member of the family Ptilogonatidae, which includes other silky-flycatcher species found in the Americas. The Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher is known for its acrobatic flying and its melodious, flute-like song. They feed on fruits, insects, and small arthropods. They are often found in small groups and can be seen foraging high in the canopy of the forest.

The best places to see the Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher in Costa Rica are the highland cloud forests of Monteverde, San Gerardo de Dota, and the Turrialba Volcano National Park. The bird is more active in the morning and can be seen perching on treetops or flying between them. It is essential to listen for their distinctive calls, which are usually heard before the bird is seen.

What’s a flock of flycatchers called?

Their flocks are called outfields, swattings, zappers, or zippers.

The Long-tailed Silky-flycatcher is not considered to be a threatened species, but their population numbers have decreased in some areas due to habitat destruction caused by deforestation. However, many protected areas in Costa Rica provide suitable habitats for this species, and efforts are being made to conserve their habitat to ensure their survival. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts who visit the cloud forests of Costa Rica should keep an eye out for this beautiful bird and enjoy its acrobatic flying and melodious songs.

These Silky Flycatchers can be found in similar habitats to the White-crowned Parrots. See both on the Birdwatching Tour Manuel Antonio / Esquipulas Private Tour here. Rated with 5 out of 🦜🦜🦜🦜🦜. Not only will your private guide bring your lunch, but they will also keep count of your bird sightings.

You can find more details here!

Bird Conservation Efforts in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its efforts towards preserving its rich biodiversity, particularly its avian population. The country has established numerous national parks and reserves to protect the habitats of its bird species. Additionally, many conservation organizations and initiatives have been created to promote bird conservation in the country.

National Parks

Birds, like tourists, love Costa Rica because it has incredibly lush, verdant rainforests, and complex biodiversity. One of the options every nation has to protect and preserve their country’s natural beauty is through the creation of numerous national parks and bird refuges that visitors can explore. Here is a comprehensive list of some of the most popular and important protected areas for birdwatching in Costa Rica.

1. Corcovado National Park
2. Manuel Antonio National Park
3. Tortuguero National Park
4. Cahuita National Park
5. Palo Verde National Park
6. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
7. Carara National Park
8. La Selva Biological Station
9. Santa Rosa National Park
10. Arenal Volcano National Park
11. San Gerardo de Dota Cloud Forest Reserve
12. Tenorio Volcano National Park
13. Curi-Cancha Reserve
14. Las Pumas Wildlife Refuge
15. Bosque de Paz Private Biological Reserve

Government

The Costa Rican government has taken a strong stand in preserving its own natural environment, and it too implemented various initiatives to protect and conserve bird populations. For instance, the government established the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) in 1998, which includes 29 protected areas that cover over a quarter of the country’s land area. Many of these protected areas are important habitats for bird species, and the government has implemented various management strategies to ensure their conservation.

Citizen Science

The Costa Rican Bird Route is a non-profit organization that aims to promote sustainable birdwatching and the conservation of bird habitats in Costa Rica. This organization provides training and certification for local guides, develops birdwatching routes, and supports research and conservation projects.

The Christmas Bird Count, a bird-counting initiative that began in Europe in 1900 by Frank Chapman of the newly formed Audubon Society, took hold in Costa Rica in 1985. Thanks to the privately owned Selva Biological Station (almost 15 years ahead of government conservation initiatives), the Christmas Bird Count has so much data, it’s used in scientific studies.

Ecotourism

Ecotourism is a growing industry in Costa Rica, and birdwatchers play an important role in the conservation of the Resplendent Quetzal and all bird species. And scientific studies back this up. 64% of tourists who visited Costa Rica in 2019 chose the country to enjoy ecotourism, with 12% mentioning they had enjoyed birdwatching and even had special equipment.

By visiting the bird’s habitat and supporting ecotourism initiatives, travelers can help to promote conservation efforts and ensure the survival of the birds of Costa Rica for generations to come.

Bird Lodges

Costa Rica is a popular destination for birdwatchers, and there are many lodges throughout the country that cater to birding enthusiasts. These lodges provide comfortable accommodations, knowledgeable guides, and access to some of the best birding sites in the country. Here is a list of just some of the top birding lodges in Costa Rica.

Bird Lodge	Closest National Park(s)	Closest Airport(s)
Selva Verde Lodge & Rainforest Reserve	Manuel Antonio, Carara	Juan Santamaria, Quepos
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa	Arenal Volcano	Juan Santamaria, Quepos
Bosque de Paz Lodge	Bosque de Paz Private Biological Reserve	Juan Santamaria, Quepos
La Selva Biological Station	Manuel Antonio, Carara	Juan Santamaria, Quepos
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens	Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve	Juan Santamaria, Tambor
Rancho Naturalista	Private Reserve	Juan Santamaria, Limon
Savegre Mountain Lodge	San Gerardo de Dota Cloud Forest Reserve	Juan Santamaria, Quepos
Trogon Lodge	Manuel Antonio	Juan Santamaria, Quepos
Villa Lapas	Corcovado	Juan Santamaria, Tambor
Luna Lodge	Corcovado	Juan Santamaria, Tambor

Each of these lodges offers a unique experience for birdwatchers, from the rainforest surroundings of Selva Verde Lodge to the high-altitude birding opportunities at Bosque de Paz Lodge. Many of these lodges also offer other activities, such as hiking and wildlife tours, to complement the birdwatching experience. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodations, from rustic cabins to luxurious suites, depending on your preferences and your budget.

See the Birds of Costa Rica – Get the Gear

Birdwatching is a great hobby that requires minimal equipment. Here is a list of the basic equipment an average birdwatching enthusiast may need:

1. Binoculars – A good pair of binoculars is essential for birdwatching. Look for binoculars with a magnification of at least 8x and an objective lens of 32mm or larger. Try the Adorrgon 12×42 HD Binoculars. They are a large view with a clear low light vision. But I like it because you use it with a phone adapter.
   Yes, your phone! You hold the binoculars in the usual way, but your cell phone goes in between. You can look at your screen and focus with the binoculars.
2. Field guide – A field guide is a book that helps birdwatchers identify the birds they see. Look for a guide specific to the birds of Costa Rica, as this will include the most common and unique bird species found in the country. Keep reading, I have a list of the top five field guides for birdwatching in Costa Rica.
   But spoiler alert, and if you don’t read down that far, my favourite is The Birds of Costa Rica: A Field Guide because the authors live in Costa Rica.
3. Camera – Many birdwatchers like to capture photos of the birds they see, either for identification purposes or as a memento of their trip. A digital camera with a zoom lens can be a great addition to your birdwatching gear.
   My cellphone camera is great for up close stuff. But since the best chance of seeing a Magnificent Quetzal is in the air, I “borrowed” my daughter’s Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR (she’s “borrowed” my stuff for years, it’s totally fair!). It’s Wi-Fi enabled and also shoots video. It’s a true beginner’s digital camera and it makes me look more expert than I actually am!
4. Clothing – Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is important for birdwatching. Lightweight, breathable clothing in muted colours will help you blend in with your surroundings and avoid startling the birds. Try this Men’s Rain Jacket from 33,000ft. It’s perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Just remember to get it in a dark or dull colour for birdwatching.
5. Footwear – Comfortable, sturdy footwear is important for navigating uneven terrain and staying comfortable during long birding hikes. Personally, when hiking in Costa Rica, I only wear the MOAB 3 Ladies Mid Waterproof Hiking Shoe. (Not a sponsored endorsement, this shoe is just super comfortable and fits all my hiking and walking needs.)
6. Water bottle and snacks – Staying hydrated and fueled up during long birding hikes is important. Bring a water bottle and some snacks to keep you energized and alert.
   We’re all doing our best for the planet (and because I also hate carrying a bulky empty water bottle) get a collapsible bottle. I suggest a reusable one like the silicon Special Made water bottle. It holds 600ml and collapses down to 5cm when empty.
7. Field bag – A small backpack or shoulder bag can be useful for carrying your gear, field guide, and any snacks or water you need during your birding adventures. Try the one from Outlander. The Outlander Travel Daypack is 100% waterproof (great for the rainy season). It weighs less than half a pound when empty, and it folds and stuffs into its own small travel pouch – so it fits into your purse or carry-on

Remember, while having equipment can enhance your birdwatching experience, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the incredible bird species that Costa Rica has to offer.

Download Your Free Birdwatching Packing List

Get a Guidebook and Go Birdwatching

Costa Rica is home to over 900 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. For those planning a trip to Costa Rica to see its incredible avian diversity, guidebooks can be an invaluable resource. Here are some of the top guidebooks written about the birds of Costa Rica:

The Birds of Costa Rica: A Field Guide

“The Birds of Costa Rica: A Field Guide” by Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean. This is probably the most used book by birdwatchers, both novice and experienced. It’s small enough to carry while birding but still large enough for accurate photos and illustrations.

And just FYI, the authors, Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean both live in Costa Rica. Richard is one of the preeminent birding guides in Costa Rica, with more than twenty-five years of experience leading birding and natural history tours. Robert Dean is an avid birder and natural history illustrator.

A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica

“A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica” by F. Gary Stiles and Alexander F. Skutch. This book serves as a portable and highly readable encyclopedia of the fascinating and ever-surprising birds of Costa Rica. It is a valuable resource for a diverse audience, including birders, naturalists, professional and amateur ornithologists, ecologists, travelers, and conservationists throughout the northern Neotropics.

Birds of Costa Rica

“Birds of Costa Rica” by Carrol L. Henderson. She is the author of several books on birding, this one is considered the best based on her thorough knowledge, and her highly skilled illustrator, Steve Adams. It’s a great portable reference guide. But if you prefer tech, it is available on Kindle.

The Costa Rica Wildlife Guide

“The Costa Rica Wildlife Guide” by Les Beletsky. The author is a wildlife biologist and an experienced eco-traveler.

The lush tropical forests of Costa Rica are a top attraction for travelers seeking to catch glimpses of its exotic wildlife, including toucans and parrots, hummingbirds and hawks, monkeys and big cats, frogs and toads, crocodiles, and even snakes. So this guide is a bit more “all-purpose” than other guidebooks!

A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica

“A Photographic Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica” by Michael Fogden, Patricia Fogden, and Robert Dean. Published in 2005, this is still considered an excellent reference guide, with high-detail photography.

Each of these guidebooks offers unique features and insights into Costa Rica’s bird species, from detailed illustrations to helpful descriptions of behavior and habitat. Some also include information on other wildlife and natural history in Costa Rica. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced birder, these guidebooks can help you identify and appreciate the many bird species found in this beautiful country.

Birdwatching? There’s an App for That!

There are many phone apps available that can be useful for birdwatchers visiting Costa Rica. Here are some apps that may enhance your birding experience in Costa Rica:

1. eBird – eBird is a citizen science project that allows users to record and share bird observations. This app can be useful for tracking your sightings and discovering new birding locations in Costa Rica. eBird also has a great downloadable list, specifically for the birds of Costa Rica. Print it out and take it with you to keep track of your sightings.
2. Merlin Bird ID – Merlin Bird ID is a free app that uses AI to help you identify bird species based on photos or descriptions. This app can be useful for quickly identifying new bird species you may encounter during your birdwatching adventures.
3. Audubon Bird Guide – The Audubon Bird Guide app includes information on bird identification, behavior, and habitat. It also includes a list of the most common bird species found in Costa Rica.
4. Costa Rica Birds – Costa Rica Birds is a free app that includes photos and descriptions of the most common bird species found in Costa Rica. It also includes bird calls and songs for each species.

These apps can be helpful tools for identifying and tracking the birds you encounter during your birdwatching adventures in Costa Rica. Remember, however, that nothing can replace the experience of observing birds in their natural habitat with your own eyes and ears.

Birds of Costa Rica FAQs

Let’s Sum Up These Beautiful Birds of Costa Rica

After exploring some of the most unique and beautiful birds in Costa Rica, it is clear that this country is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The 900+ species of birds ensure that there is no shortage of opportunities to witness the beauty of nature up close.

Birdwatching in Costa Rica makes for a great daytrip or an entire vacation. A day out with a reputable guide can encompass many hobbies at once – hiking, photography, sightseeing, and citizen science.

If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, consider visiting some of the many national parks and protected areas that are home to these birds. By supporting ecotourism and responsible travel, you can help ensure that these birds and their habitats are preserved for future generations. Additionally, consider supporting conservation organizations and initiatives that work to promote bird conservation in the country, such as the Costa Rican Bird Observatory or the BirdLife International Partner in Costa Rica.

Let us all do our part in protecting the birds of Costa Rica and preserving the country’s rich biodiversity. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that these birds continue to thrive in their natural habitats.

Cheers,
Cynthia

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