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This tour targets some of the unique, off-the-beaten-path birds that you might not find on a typical tour of central Costa Rica. The rare Yellow-billed Cotinga certainly qualifies, and was a major highlight of this year's tour. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
From the comfortable breezes of the Central Valley to the misty heights of the Cerro de la Muerte and the steamy rainforests of the southern Pacific coast, this tour really packed in a LOT of habitat and elevational diversity into 8 full days in Costa Rica. Some participants stayed on for Part II in the northern reaches of the country.
After arriving from the airport in San Jose, we began with a breezy evening of birding at the Hotel Bougainvillea in Santo Domingo de Heredia, finding White-tailed Kite, Rufous-naped Wren, and Crimson-fronted Parakeets.
Our first full day of the tour was primarily a travel day. We birded in several spots in the montane forests of Cerro de la Muerte, but this was mostly in passing during our driving to Talari Mountain Lodge near San Isidro. While our endeavors were a bit hampered by light rain and fog, we found a great mixed flock along the entrance road to Paraiso Quetzal -- here we had Flame-throated Warblers, Yellow-winged Vireo, and Black-thighed Grosbeaks. We had a hard time focusing on our nice lunch at the Paraiso Quetzal lodge because of all of the hummingbirds zipping around outside. Fiery-throated Hummingbirds, common here, stole the show. We descended from the chilly highlands to our warmer lodging in the forest at Talari Mountain Lodge, where Fiery-billed Aracaris and a large flock of swifts helped to put the day to bed.
The next day found us exploring Alexander Skutch's estate at Los Cusingos. Charming Hummingbird, skulking Great Tinamous, Rufous Piha, and a plethora of tanagers met us in the hill forest here. We returned to Talari Mountain Lodge for the afternoon, where a watch along the river sent Peregrine Falcon and Lineated Woodpecker our way for great views. We capped the evening off with a Tropical Screech-Owl just outside our rooms.
After a morning walk on the trails at Talari turned up White-winged Becard, Red-crowned Ant-Tanager, and others, we hopped back on the bus and headed to the hills along the coast, to the steamy but very impressive Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. Birding the open rice fields along the entrance road was very exciting, with Purple Gallinules everywhere, Crested Guan and Black-mandibled Toucan perched up in trees, and Costa Rican Swifts and Muscovy Ducks flying by. In a short period of time before dinner, we found about 70 species in the open habitats along the entrance road.
The next day, we awoke to the whistled song of the very local Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager outside our rooms while Great Curassows paraded around on the grounds and a Baird's Trogon sang endlessly from the canopy. We headed to the Golfito Road, where the track through the forest gave us the opportunity to see several endemic Black-cheeked Ant-Tanagers very well at close range. Other highlights along the road included White-necked Puffbird and a soaring King Vulture. In Golfito, we enjoyed shorebirds on the mudflats and especially the Scarlet Macaws munching on almonds near the town center. A return to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge gave us time to again peruse the rice fields along the entrance road, this time turning up an adult Gray-lined Hawk among other goodies.
A very early morning drive the next day took us to the Rincon Bridge at the base of the Osa Peninsula. Here, we delighted in oodles of stunning cotingas, including at least 18 Yellow-billed Cotingas and 3 male Turquoise Cotingas -- wow! Additionally, Gray-headed Kites circled overhead, Boat-billed Herons perched along the river, and a Cinnamon Becard delighted in the forested edge.
After our final night at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, we struck out across the hot lowlands toward the Panama border, stopping en route to bird at the Coto 47 marsh. Here we found such recent additions to the Costa Rican avifauna as Veraguan Mango and Rusty-margined Flycatcher and enjoyed low views of Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture as well. Our ascent toward San Vito led us to Wilson Botanical Gardens, our home for two nights.
Wilson offered plenty of options during our two days there. Some enjoyed the hummingbirds best -- we found a few remarkable Purple-crowned Fairies here; others took delight in the flocks of forest birds, including the charismatic Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant and the stealthy Black-faced Antthrush; night birding here turned up a most cooperative Mottled Owl as well.
The final day found us traveling back to San Jose. We took a route along the Pacific Coast, with a lovely stop at the Rio Tarcoles in the afternoon. Here we admired huge American Crocodiles in the river and also saw Turquoise-browed Motmot and Bat Falcons, among others. A bit of a struggle through evening traffic in San Jose took us back to the Hotel Bougainvillea, where we enjoyed a delightful dinner and toasted our good birding fortune for the week.
We had a great group, and whether this was a first time in the tropics or an opportunity to find a few out-of-the-way endemics, I think everyone enjoyed their time birding the south of Costa Rica. For Jay and myself, thank you all, and pura vida!
-Tom Johnson
KEYS FOR THIS LIST
One of the following keys may be shown in brackets for individual species as appropriate: * = heard only, I = introduced, E = endemic, N = nesting, a = austral migrant, b = boreal migrant
BIRDS
Tinamidae (Tinamous)
GREAT TINAMOU (Tinamus major) – We heard these large tinamous in several places, but our only visual was of two birds that Vernon spotted from the trail at Los Cusingos.
LITTLE TINAMOU (Crypturellus soui) – We heard the quavering whistles of these skulkers along the Golfito Rd. [*]
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl)
BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) – A large flock was at the pond at the Coto 47 marsh.
MUSCOVY DUCK (Cairina moschata) – A small flock circled and landed in the rice fields along the entrance road to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge on our first evening there.
BLUE-WINGED TEAL (Anas discors) – Small groups were at Coto 47 marsh and the San Joaquin marsh.
Cracidae (Guans, Chachalacas, and Curassows)
GRAY-HEADED CHACHALACA (Ortalis cinereiceps) – Our best views were near Wilson Botanical Gardens; a flock flopped through the trees at the site where we saw Costa Rican Brush-Finch and Rufous-browed Peppershrike.
CRESTED GUAN (Penelope purpurascens) – Fairly common in forest at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge and Wilson Botanical Gardens.
Lesser Yellow-headed Vultures often fly quite low, allowing for close study of their colorful head skin. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
GREAT CURASSOW (Crax rubra) – These massive Cracids were very approachable on the grounds of Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. Male/ female pairs gave us spectacular views at close range, and we heard the low frequency thumping of the males' calls.
Odontophoridae (New World Quail)
MARBLED WOOD-QUAIL (Odontophorus gujanensis) – The rollicking cries of these forest-dwellers echoed across the river at Rincon Bridge during our cotinga watch. [*]
Ciconiidae (Storks)
WOOD STORK (Mycteria americana) – These huge waders were mostly seen in flight; on our drive in to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, we had the good fortune to compare soaring Wood Storks with a nearby King Vulture.
Fregatidae (Frigatebirds)
MAGNIFICENT FRIGATEBIRD (Fregata magnificens) – Common along the Pacific Coast.
Phalacrocoracidae (Cormorants and Shags)
NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) – Our best views were of birds sitting on pilings in Golfito; others were seen while driving in the southern lowlands.
Anhingidae (Anhingas)
ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) – A few singletons were soaring in the vicinity of Coto 47 marsh.
Pelecanidae (Pelicans)
BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) – Common along the immediate Pacific Coast; we saw these all along our drive on the final day of the tour.
Ardeidae (Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns)
BARE-THROATED TIGER-HERON (Tigrisoma mexicanum) – We saw both a a striking adult and a rusty juvenile from the Rincon Bridge on the Osa Peninsula.
GREAT EGRET (Ardea alba) – Common in the lowlands.
This Tropical Screech-Owl was a nice bonus feature of our excellent accommodations at Hotel Bougainvillea. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
LITTLE BLUE HERON (Egretta caerulea) – Numerous, both in freshwater marshes and on the coastal mudflats in Golfito.
TRICOLORED HERON (Egretta tricolor) – Ours were on the mudflats in Golfito, sprinkled in with lots of Little Blue Herons.
CATTLE EGRET (Bubulcus ibis) – Very common, especially in agricultural areas with livestock.
GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) – Fairly common in wetlands.
BOAT-BILLED HERON (Cochlearius cochlearius) – Both immatures and adults were roosting along the river just upstream from the Rincon Bridge; great scope views of these funky herons.
Threskiornithidae (Ibises and Spoonbills)
WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) – Scattered throughout the southern lowlands.
ROSEATE SPOONBILL (Platalea ajaja) – We saw two - best was one in the river downstream from Rincon Bridge.
Cathartidae (New World Vultures)
BLACK VULTURE (Coragyps atratus) – Abundant.
TURKEY VULTURE (Cathartes aura) – Abundant.
LESSER YELLOW-HEADED VULTURE (Cathartes burrovianus) – This species is rare in lowlands both in the north and south of Costa Rica. Here, we had stellar views of at least one that careened back and forth past us in the heat at Coto 47 marsh.
KING VULTURE (Sarcoramphus papa) – Our first of these magnificent vultures was over the Golfito Road, but we later had extended views of one soaring with Wood Storks near Esquinas Rainforest Lodge on our way back to the lodge from the Rincon Bridge. At least two more were in the vicinity of the Wilson Botanical Gardens near the end of the tour.
Pandionidae (Osprey)
OSPREY (Pandion haliaetus) – One flew over at Talari Mountain Lodge; we later had better views at Coto 47.
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
PEARL KITE (Gampsonyx swainsonii) – What a bird! We had extended scope views of a perched bird that Vernon spotted while driving the bus between Talari Mountain Lodge and Los Cusingos.
WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) – We saw these handsome birds at several spots during our drives early in the tour; our best, however, was the very first evening when we walked across the street from the Hotel Bougainvillea and watched a kite perched in the top of a fig tree.
GRAY-HEADED KITE (Leptodon cayanensis) – Four of these distinctive raptors soared over at Rincon Bridge; two even did their floppy display flight, which was amusing and amazing to watch.
SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) – We saw these regularly during the last four days of the tour; best views probably came from the bus and also from the terrace at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
BLACK HAWK-EAGLE (Spizaetus tyrannus) – Two circled over as they displayed at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
DOUBLE-TOOTHED KITE (Harpagus bidentatus) – A few of these small raptors soared over; one of our better views was of one soaring underneath Gray-headed Kites and a Short-tailed Hawk at the Rincon Bridge.
This Band-tailed Barbthroat was perched low along the Golfito Rd., providing our only study of the species for the tour. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
ROADSIDE HAWK (Rupornis magnirostris) – Common; we had especially nice views in the scope at the entrance to Los Cusingos.
BROAD-WINGED HAWK (Buteo platypterus) – Common; these circled over at several locations, including along the road near Wilson Botanical Garden on multiple occasions.
GRAY HAWK (Buteo plagiatus) – Most of this tour was outside the range of this northern species, but we did manage to see a few nicely from the bus during our long drive back to San Jose on the last day between Dominical and the Rio Tarcoles.
GRAY-LINED HAWK (Buteo nitidus) – This is the recently split "Gray Hawk of the South"; indeed, we saw the barred back of the first adult we encountered at the rice fields near Esquinas Rainforest Lodge; others soared over at Coto 47.
SHORT-TAILED HAWK (Buteo brachyurus) – Common; both dark and light morphs.
Rallidae (Rails, Gallinules, and Coots)
WHITE-THROATED CRAKE (Laterallus albigularis) – This was the growling crake that we heard in numbers, especially at the Esquinas rice fields. We almost saw them there, as well as at the San Joaquin marsh near San Vito, but visuals remained elusive. [*]
GRAY-BREASTED CRAKE (Laterallus exilis) – Heard only at the Esquinas rice fields. [*]
GRAY-NECKED WOOD-RAIL (Aramides cajaneus) – We saw these on most days. Memorable views came of a roosting pair during a night walk at Talari Mountain Lodge and also along the entrance road to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, where 2-3 often walked chicken-like along the road edge.
PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinicus) – Abundant along the entrance road to Esquinas; most were seen in flight or perching up to eat seeds.
COMMON GALLINULE (Gallinula galeata) – Nice views at San Joaquin Marsh near San Vito.
Recurvirostridae (Stilts and Avocets)
BLACK-NECKED STILT (Himantopus mexicanus) – Good views in a small stream at Coto 47; others were seen along the road during our return drive to San Jose.
Charadriidae (Plovers and Lapwings)
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) – Golfito mudflats.
SOUTHERN LAPWING (Vanellus chilensis) – We saw these in Golfito and at Coto 47.
Short bills sometimes equal shortcuts to nectar in the hummingbird world. This Purple-crowned Fairy attacked the base of red flowers as we watched near the canopy tower at Wilson Botanical Gardens. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
SEMIPALMATED PLOVER (Charadrius semipalmatus) – Golfito mudflats.
Jacanidae (Jacanas)
NORTHERN JACANA (Jacana spinosa) – Common in freshwater marshes and wet fields. Many were in the rice fields near Esquinas.
Scolopacidae (Sandpipers and Allies)
SPOTTED SANDPIPER (Actitis macularius) – These were along rivers at several sites during the tour; best views were probably the ones that continuously flew back and forth under the Rincon Bridge.
GREATER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa melanoleuca) – These were seen during the second half of the tour in several places, including Coto 47 and the San Joaquin marsh, where we compared one with a flock of Lesser Yellowlegs.
WILLET (Tringa semipalmata) – Golfito mudflats.
LESSER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa flavipes) – At least 22 were in the San Joaquin Marsh near San Vito.
WHIMBREL (Numenius phaeopus) – Golfito mudflats.
RUDDY TURNSTONE (Arenaria interpres) – Golfito mudflats.
LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla) – These tiny peeps were in the river at Rincon Bridge, and also on the Rio Tarcoles on our last day.
WESTERN SANDPIPER (Calidris mauri) – These were the long-billed, gray peeps of the Golfito mudflats.
Laridae (Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers)
LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) – Golfito.
ROYAL TERN (Thalasseus maximus) – Golfito; the carrot-billed tern here.
SANDWICH TERN (Thalasseus sandvicensis) – Jay picked one out at Golfito; it then sat with a Royal Tern, but views through the heat shimmer left something to be desired.
Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves)
ROCK PIGEON (Columba livia) – Not very widespread away from major towns. We saw these in San Jose and in larger towns in the south like Golfito and San Vito. [I]
PALE-VENTED PIGEON (Patagioenas cayennensis) – A few flew over or perched up at various points in the south. Fred pointed one out in the Golfito mangroves, and others were seen along our drives.
SCALED PIGEON (Patagioenas speciosa) – A stunner; one sat up VERY nicely for us to scope at the San Joaquin marsh. This beautiful pigeon was one of Bob's picks for favorite bird of the trip.
RED-BILLED PIGEON (Patagioenas flavirostris) – Common in the Central Valley; we saw many of these at Hotel Bougainvillea and during our drives in the San Jose area.
RUDDY PIGEON (Patagioenas subvinacea) – We found these pigeons around Wilson Botanical Gardens. Though we did scope one nicely from our rooms there, it was also fun to hear this bird's distinctive "Hit the foul pole!" calls from the forest canopy.
A specialty of the highlands, Fiery-throated Hummingbird was perhaps the most colorful hummer of the tour. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
INCA DOVE (Columbina inca) – We found these small doves in the Central Valley at the beginning and end of the tour. Several were across the street from Hotel Bougainvillea on one of our first walks.
RUDDY GROUND-DOVE (Columbina talpacoti) – Common; we saw these on every day of the tour.
BLUE GROUND-DOVE (Claravis pretiosa) – This small, flighty dove was common along the entrance road to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.
WHITE-TIPPED DOVE (Leptotila verreauxi) – We saw these stocky doves shuffling around near lodges and in the forest on most days.
GRAY-CHESTED DOVE (Leptotila cassinii) – We saw two of these quite well during a walk on the grounds of Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. The Pacific race birds that we saw have striking rusty napes.
WHITE-WINGED DOVE (Zenaida asiatica) – These were in the Central Valley; we saw them at Hotel Bougainvillea and during our drives on the first and last days of the tour.
Cuculidae (Cuckoos)
SQUIRREL CUCKOO (Piaya cayana) – The snappy, whistled calls of this large cuckoo were a frequent feature of the soundscape on this tour. We had some especially nice views on the Golfito Rd.
STRIPED CUCKOO (Tapera naevia) – One perched up for us along the road at Coto 47, whistling its odd, two-note song.
SMOOTH-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga ani) – This was the ani of the south that we saw during most of the tour away from the Central Valley.
GROOVE-BILLED ANI (Crotophaga sulcirostris) – We saw these in the Central Valley and north of Dominical on our last day's drive.
Strigidae (Owls)
TROPICAL SCREECH-OWL (Megascops choliba) – One perched above us at Hotel Bougainvillea at night before the trip started; another came in for views just outside our rooms at Talari Mountain Lodge.
CRESTED OWL (Lophostrix cristata) – We heard one in the distance at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge at night. [*]
SPECTACLED OWL (Pulsatrix perspicillata) – Hearing these at night and pre-dawn was a fun part of staying at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. One evening, a few of us got to see one fly over the parking lot.
MOTTLED OWL (Ciccaba virgata) – One called on both of our nights at Wilson Botanical Gardens. A portion of the group pursued it and found it with a flashlight. The bird calmly faced us and continued calling. Understandably, this one was one of Ian's favorites of the tour.
Caprimulgidae (Nightjars and Allies)
LESSER NIGHTHAWK (Chordeiles acutipennis) – A few distant birds bounded around over the hills surrounding the rice fields at Esquinas.
The namesake bird of Alexander Skutch's Los Cusingos estate, this Fiery-billed Aracari was perched outside the dining porch at Talari Mountain Lodge. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) – We saw these frequently during night drives, and they called just outside our rooms at Talari Mountain Lodge. One took up a hunting spot on the driveway under a light near the dining porch at Talari, too.
Nyctibiidae (Potoos)
COMMON POTOO (Nyctibius griseus) – Two were sitting along the edge of a field during our night drive from Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. The spotlight illuminated the eyes of the close one very well, and we all had nice scope views as it sat vertically on a fencepost.
Apodidae (Swifts)
WHITE-CHINNED SWIFT (Cypseloides cryptus) – At least one was part of a mixed flock of swifts that boiled over at Talari Mountain Lodge; while it was frustratingly high, Tom's photos allowed for an ID.
SPOT-FRONTED SWIFT (Cypseloides cherriei) – A few of these were mixed with Chestnut-collared and at least one White-chinned Swift at Talari Mountain Lodge; Tom's photos confirmed the ID.
CHESTNUT-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne rutila) – This was the most common swift in the large, confusing swarm at Talari Mountain Lodge; their long, very tapered wings and a bit of chestnut on the nape helped to nail the ID.
WHITE-COLLARED SWIFT (Streptoprocne zonaris) – We saw these huge swifts on a number of occasions. The best views came at Rincon Bridge and then again near Coto 47, where a small group zoomed just overhead while we searched a row of flowering trees for hummingbirds.
VAUX'S SWIFT (Chaetura vauxi) – This was the small swift that we saw in flocks and heard chattering at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
COSTA RICAN SWIFT (Chaetura fumosa) – We saw these small swifts in the lowlands - the best experience was over the rice fields at Esquinas, where we saw the high-contrast band across the rumps. This species was split from Band-rumped Swift in 1998.
LESSER SWALLOW-TAILED SWIFT (Panyptila cayennensis) – We never had stunning views at this skinny swift, but we did have a few mixed with Costa Rican Swifts at the Esquinas rice fields and also nearby at the "King Vulture overlook" on the Golfito Rd.
Trochilidae (Hummingbirds)
WHITE-NECKED JACOBIN (Florisuga mellivora) – We found males flycatching insects from the tops of trees at several locations in the south. The best views of this behavior came from the Rincon Bridge; the Jacobin there shared its hunting perch with a Yellow-billed Cotinga at one point!
BAND-TAILED BARBTHROAT (Threnetes ruckeri) – One perched very nicely for us along the Golfito Rd.
GREEN HERMIT (Phaethornis guy) – During our foray down the hill to the canopy tower at Wilson BG, we found a few males singing from their leks, low to the forest floor. Otherwise, our views were limited to birds zooming past us during their trapline foraging trips.
LONG-BILLED HERMIT (Phaethornis longirostris) – A few of these were trapline feeding around the buildings and the driveway at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.
STRIPE-THROATED HERMIT (Phaethornis striigularis) – Formerly part of "Little Hermit", this species entertained us as it fed at flowers at Talari Mountain Lodge, Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, and Wilson Botanical Gardens.
GREEN VIOLETEAR (Colibri thalassinus) – These gorgeous montane hummers fed in the light rain at Paraiso Quetzal; their nonstop songs accompanied several of our birding stops during that first day of birding on Cerro de la Muerte.
PURPLE-CROWNED FAIRY (Heliothryx barroti) – One of these little stunners fed at a small red-and-yellow flower in front of the group during our second walk down to the canopy tower at Wilson BG.
VERAGUAN MANGO (Anthracothorax veraguensis) – Vernon spotted one of these recent additions to the Costa Rican list at Coto 47 marsh, where the species is now expected.
These Black-mandibled Toucans were scouting for food along the entrance road near Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, much to the dismay of an excited group of songbirds. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
LONG-BILLED STARTHROAT (Heliomaster longirostris) – We saw at least three individuals; very nice views came from atop a tree at Talari Mountain Lodge and on a utility wire in San Vito.
FIERY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Panterpe insignis) – These super colorful hummingbirds really stole the show at the feeders at Paraiso Quetzal. This is a highland species restricted to Costa Rica and western Panama
VOLCANO HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus flammula) – These were the tiny hummingbirds that we saw in the highlands of Cerro de la Muerte on the first travel day of the tour. They were frequent visitors to feeders and flowers, and we even saw a female gathering nesting material and adding it to her nest at Paraiso Quetzal.
GARDEN EMERALD (Chlorostilbon assimilis) – These active hummingbirds were along the marsh edge at the San Vito Airport Marsh along with the Snowy-bellied Hummingbirds.
SCALY-BREASTED HUMMINGBIRD (Phaeochroa cuvierii)
CROWNED WOODNYMPH (Thalurania colombica)
WHITE-TAILED EMERALD (Elvira chionura) – Ian and Tom saw one of these small hummingbirds briefly below the rooms at Wilson BG in our final minutes of birding there.
CHARMING HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia decora) – We ended up seeing this hummingbird in many different locations, but the scope views of our first, at Los Cusingos, were pretty sweet. One of the favorites for Hans for the trip.
SNOWY-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia edward) – We had a few tantalizing views, but our best collective group experience came along the road at the San Vito airport marsh.
RUFOUS-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia tzacatl) – This was the common hummingbird through lower and middle elevations; we saw them every day.
BLUE-THROATED GOLDENTAIL (Hylocharis eliciae) – We had several brief sightings of this hummingbird, including at Rincon Bridge and the Coto 47 marsh.
Trogonidae (Trogons)
SLATY-TAILED TROGON (Trogon massena) – The repeated "cow-cow-cow..." calls of this trogon followed us through the woods at several locations in the south; we had very nice scope views of two at Los Cusingos.
BAIRD'S TROGON (Trogon bairdii) – A few very vocal birds serenaded us at Esquinas. After a bit of dancing back and forth to find the perfect angle, we had great scope views of a singing male up in the forest canopy (near the spot where we saw Gray-chested Doves).
GARTERED TROGON (Trogon caligatus) – One sat out for us at Los Cusingos; another was along the road near Rincon Bridge.
BLACK-THROATED TROGON (Trogon rufus) – One lovely individual perched right above the driveway upon our arrival at Los Cusingos.
COLLARED TROGON (Trogon collaris) – One was at Wilson BG on our final morning there.
Momotidae (Motmots)
BLUE-CROWNED MOTMOT (LESSON'S) (Momotus coeruliceps lessonii) – This was the common motmot of the tour; we had some memorable experiences with close birds, especially early in the mornings at Talari and Esquinas. Their deep "whoop! whoop!" calls were particularly loud and resonant.
TURQUOISE-BROWED MOTMOT (Eumomota superciliosa) – In Costa Rica, this motmot is restricted to the northwest, a part of the country that we merely grazed on this tour during our return drive to San Jose. Jay picked out one sitting along the riverbank at Rio Tarcoles, and then we saw a few more while driving into the Central Valley from the west.
Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)
RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquata) – This huge kingfisher "KLACK"ed past us at the Rincon Bridge.
Brown-throated Parakeets arrived in Costa Rica from Panama recently. These two were near Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
GREEN KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle americana) – One perched just downstream from the Rincon Bridge.
AMERICAN PYGMY KINGFISHER (Chloroceryle aenea) – Super! This tiny kingfisher was supervising the caiman pond at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. It stayed put long enough for everyone to enjoy scope views.
Bucconidae (Puffbirds)
WHITE-NECKED PUFFBIRD (Notharchus hyperrhynchus) – Two of these chunky puffbirds gave us great scope views; one was at Golfito Rd. near our Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager spot, and the other was along the edge of the mangroves just up the road from the Rincon Bridge.
Galbulidae (Jacamars)
RUFOUS-TAILED JACAMAR (Galbula ruficauda) – We saw this jacamar twice - once along Golfito Rd. near the small bridge, and another time along the forest edge above the canopy tower on the trail at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
Ramphastidae (Toucans)
FIERY-BILLED ARACARI (Pteroglossus frantzii) – This spunky toucan was actually fairly confiding for us in several locations in the south. Particularly memorable were our views of the small group above the feeding station at Los Cusingos and the close pair above us at Talari Mountain Lodge.
BLACK-MANDIBLED TOUCAN (CHESTNUT-MANDIBLED) (Ramphastos ambiguus swainsonii) – This was the common large toucan of this tour, and we saw LOTS. A pair investigated cavities in some very active field-side trees near Esquinas, which drew the ire of a whole host of passerines.
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
OLIVACEOUS PICULET (Picumnus olivaceus) – A hyperactive pair approached us and even mated at the entrance to Los Cusingos; another was seen from the dining porch at Talari Mountain Lodge the next day, too.
GOLDEN-NAPED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes chrysauchen) – While we heard it in a few different locations, we had excellent views in the forest at Los Cusingos.
RED-CROWNED WOODPECKER (Melanerpes rubricapillus) – This was the common species of red-crowned, bar-backed woodpecker in the south, replacing Hoffmann's Woodpecker there. During our brief stop at Rio Tarcoles, in the contact zone between these two species, we saw a Red-crowned x Hoffmann's Woodpecker hybrid clinging to a tree in the river bed.
HOFFMANN'S WOODPECKER (Melanerpes hoffmannii) – This species replaces Red-crowned Woodpecker in the northwest and Central Valley; we saw them very well around Hotel Bougainvillea. A hybrid between this species and Red-crowned Woodpecker was at Rio Tarcoles.
SMOKY-BROWN WOODPECKER (Picoides fumigatus) – This species performed admirably at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
RUFOUS-WINGED WOODPECKER (Piculus simplex) – We saw this woodpecker briefly at Esquinas; most of our detections were by its squealing call.
GOLDEN-OLIVE WOODPECKER (Colaptes rubiginosus) – We had some nice views of a bird by the office at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
LINEATED WOODPECKER (Dryocopus lineatus) – While we saw this large, Pileated-like woodpecker in several places, our best views were certainly of the close bird that flew in and perched in one of the close cecropias at the river overlook at Talari Mountain Lodge.
PALE-BILLED WOODPECKER (Campephilus guatemalensis) – A pair flew in and gave us nice views near the feeders at Los Cusingos.
Falconidae (Falcons and Caracaras)
CRESTED CARACARA (Caracara cheriway) – This large caracara was a fairly common sight in open areas in the south.
YELLOW-HEADED CARACARA (Milvago chimachima) – This is the common small caracara, a frequent site in open and edge habitats in the south of the country.
This Scarlet Macaw was part of a small group eating almonds in downtown Golfito. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
BAT FALCON (Falco rufigularis) – A quick flyby at the Rincon Bridge was definitely eclipsed by perched views of a pair on the wires above the north bank of the Rio Tarcoles.
PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) – We saw two - one was a close flyover along the river at Talari Mountain Lodge; the other was another flyover near Esquinas.
Psittacidae (New World and African Parrots)
ORANGE-CHINNED PARAKEET (Brotogeris jugularis) – Seen on most days, these were the small parakeets that chattered harshly as they flew over us. Our best views of the namesake orange chins came as we were about to leave Rincon Bridge.
BROWN-HOODED PARROT (Pyrilia haematotis) – Our nicest view was of one that Ian spotted in the canopy on the trail at Los Cusingos.
BLUE-HEADED PARROT (Pionus menstruus) – We found these attractive parrots several times between Esquinas and Wilson. The nicest views were of the small flock along the entrance road to Esquinas.
WHITE-CROWNED PARROT (Pionus senilis) – These small parrots posed for us on several occasions; one of the best was along the Esquinas entrance road.
RED-LORED PARROT (Amazona autumnalis) – This was the common large parrot during our adventures in the south.
YELLOW-NAPED PARROT (Amazona auropalliata) – One flew in and landed above us across the street from Hotel Bougainvillea on the first evening.
WHITE-FRONTED PARROT (Amazona albifrons) – Our only White-fronted Parrots were calling flyovers during our walking tour of the Rio Tarcoles bridge. We had reasonably nice views of at least two small groups as they sped past.
MEALY PARROT (Amazona farinosa) – At least one of these large, dusty-looking parrots flew over calling during "parrot mania" on the Rincon Bridge.
BROWN-THROATED PARAKEET (Eupsittula pertinax) – We saw these only twice in the south; two that allopreened atop a tree along the entrance road to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge were particularly accommodating.
SCARLET MACAW (Ara macao) – While we did see these magnificent huge parrots from the bus along our drive along the coast on the tour's last day, nothing could beat the amazing views we had of a small flock munching on almonds in the middle of the town of Golfito.
CRIMSON-FRONTED PARAKEET (Psittacara finschi) – This was the most numerous parrot that we saw during the tour. Their raucous calls and red-and-yellow underwings helped us to identify them in flight
Thamnophilidae (Typical Antbirds)
BLACK-HOODED ANTSHRIKE (Thamnophilus bridgesi) – This was one of the antbirds that we heard and saw most frequently in the forests on this tour; a pair in a mixed flock along the road near Rincon Bridge gave us some very nice views.
RUSSET ANTSHRIKE (Thamnistes anabatinus) – Our walks down to the canopy tower at Wilson Botanical Gardens provided for some nice views of a few pairs of these; they acted like foliage-gleaners, an interesting departure from typical antshrike behavior.
PLAIN ANTVIREO (Dysithamnus mentalis) – These were along the trail at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
SLATY ANTWREN (Myrmotherula schisticolor) – Our only one was on our last morning during a walk at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
This gorgeous Black-striped Woodcreeper sat up near the lodge at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge as we were about to leave. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
DUSKY ANTBIRD (Cercomacra tyrannina) – Our only one was in a dense tangle along the driveway of Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.
CHESTNUT-BACKED ANTBIRD (Myrmeciza exsul) – While we heard this handsome antbird at several locations, we only saw it once. One posed in the open for us in the understory along Golfito Rd. for memorable views.
Grallariidae (Antpittas)
STREAK-CHESTED ANTPITTA (Hylopezus perspicillatus) – One was singing along Golfito Rd., but as it was across the river, there was no chance of seeing it. [*]
Formicariidae (Antthrushes)
BLACK-FACED ANTTHRUSH (Formicarius analis) – Right up until the last morning of the tour, it seemd that this widespread and common forest species was destined to remain "heard only"; then, the group that hiked down to the Wilson Botanical Garden canopy tower struck gold with two birds that walked across the trail in the dawn gloaming.
Furnariidae (Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers)
OLIVACEOUS WOODCREEPER (Sittasomus griseicapillus) – We saw these small, short-billed woodcreepers only on our last two days of the tour during our walks at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
WEDGE-BILLED WOODCREEPER (Glyphorynchus spirurus) – This small woodcreeper appeared for us in the forest at Esquinas (our best views) and Wilson.
NORTHERN BARRED-WOODCREEPER (Dendrocolaptes sanctithomae) – One posed on a tree trunk in the gardens at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. At one point, you only had to pivot a short distance to swing your binoculars from the woodcreeper to a Crested Guan hidden in the subcanopy.
COCOA WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus susurrans) – This was the common large woodcreeper that we encountered at Los Cusingos, Rincon Bridge, and Esquinas.
BLACK-STRIPED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus lachrymosus) – We kept hearing this beautifully-patterned woodcreeper up the slope at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, but it waited until we were about to leave to appear on a tree right above the parked bus. Then, its mate appeared for excellent views as well. Wow!
SPOTTED WOODCREEPER (Xiphorhynchus erythropygius) – This was the eye-ringed woodcreeper that we saw on the trails at Wilson.
STREAK-HEADED WOODCREEPER (Lepidocolaptes souleyetii) – This slim, well-patterned woodcreeper put in several appearances during the tour, including at Esquinas and Wilson.
PLAIN XENOPS (Xenops minutus) – One was along the road near the Rincon Bridge; we also saw the species along the edge of the forest at Wilson on the last days of the tour.
BUFF-THROATED FOLIAGE-GLEANER (EXSERTUS) (Automolus ochrolaemus exsertus) – While we did hear this forest Furnariid during our stay at Esquinas, our best views came on two consecutive walks at Wilson Botanical Gardens. The foliage gleaning behavior on the last morning at Wilson was particularly delightful, and prompted Sue to choose it as one of her favorites.
RUDDY TREERUNNER (Margarornis rubiginosus) – This was one of the prizes of the sudden mixed flock we encountered along the road in to Paraiso Quetzal after a long quiet stretch, helping to underscore Jay's "feast or famine" description of forest birding in the tropics (specifically the "feast" aspect).
RED-FACED SPINETAIL (Cranioleuca erythrops) – Ian spotted one of these skulkers a few days before Jay's group caught up to one on the trails at Wilson.
PALE-BREASTED SPINETAIL (Synallaxis albescens) – We found this squeaky spinetail near Esquinas and at San Joaquin Marsh.
Tyrannidae (Tyrant Flycatchers)
SOUTHERN BEARDLESS-TYRANNULET (Camptostoma obsoletum) – We heard this drab flycatcher at several spots around San Isidro; we saw one nicely just above the feeding station at Talari Mountain Lodge.
YELLOW TYRANNULET (Capsiempis flaveola) – Nice views along the Esquinas entrance road.
GREENISH ELAENIA (Myiopagis viridicata) – One at calling and seen briefly at Talari Mountain Lodge was our only one of the tour.
YELLOW-BELLIED ELAENIA (Elaenia flavogaster) – We heard this flycatcher's breezy whistle on many occasions, but good views eluded most of the group until the last morning at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
OLIVE-STRIPED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes olivaceus) – One was near Paraiso Quetzal on our first travel day.
OCHRE-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Mionectes oleagineus) – We found this flycatcher at Los Cusingos and Esquinas, but our best views were near the Rincon Bridge.
This Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant showed off its fancy crown feathers along the forest trails at Wilson Botanical Gardens. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
SCALE-CRESTED PYGMY-TYRANT (Lophotriccus pileatus) – The trail near the canopy tower at Wilson proved to be good for this tiny flycatcher.
NORTHERN BENTBILL (Oncostoma cinereigulare) – One posed nicely on the afternoon walk along the stream at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge; another was calling on the Golfito Rd.
SLATE-HEADED TODY-FLYCATCHER (Poecilotriccus sylvia) – Fred and Ian eventually found this spunky flycatcher after it taunted everyone else by calling from a hidden tangle along the Esquinas driveway.
COMMON TODY-FLYCATCHER (Todirostrum cinereum) – Fairly common, especially near water at Talari, Esquinas, and Rincon Bridge.
EYE-RINGED FLATBILL (Rhynchocyclus brevirostris) – Several folks had scope views at Esquinas.
YELLOW-OLIVE FLYCATCHER (Tolmomyias sulphurescens) – We found this peculiar flycatcher first at Los Cusingos for our best views.
RUDDY-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Terenotriccus erythrurus) – This tiny flycatcher buzzed around us on the trail at Los Cusingos for outstanding views.
SULPHUR-RUMPED FLYCATCHER (Myiobius sulphureipygius aureatus) – This striking flycatcher was flitting around near the ground at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
BRAN-COLORED FLYCATCHER (Myiophobus fasciatus) – One called repeatedly and briefly hopped into the open at San Joaquin Marsh.
OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER (Contopus cooperi) – One of these boreal migrants gleaned insects high above the fruit feeder at Los Cusingos.
WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE (Contopus sordidulus) – We saw one of these boreal migrants perch out in the open and even heard its distinctive calls along the Golfito Rd.
YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER (Empidonax flaviventris) – We found these "cute", large-eyed Empids at several spots, including Golfito Rd. and Wilson.
ACADIAN FLYCATCHER (Empidonax virescens) – This Empid showed off its whitish throat, wide-based bill, and long primary projection along the driveway at Talari Mountain Lodge.
WILLOW FLYCATCHER (Empidonax traillii) – One "whit"ed and was seen briefly by some along the road at Coto 47 marsh.
BLACK-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Empidonax atriceps) – A common flycatcher during our forest birding in the mountains on Cerro de la Muerte.
BLACK PHOEBE (Sayornis nigricans) – One tail-pumped at Talari Mountain Lodge near the river.
BRIGHT-RUMPED ATTILA (Attila spadiceus) – The startlingly loud whistles of this canopy flycatcher followed us almost everywhere. We scored visuals at Esquinas and from the canopy tower at Wilson.
RUFOUS MOURNER (Rhytipterna holerythra) – We heard this loud forest bird at Esquinas, and some of the group managed good views at Rincon Bridge
DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tuberculifer) – We found this slim, mournful-sounding Myiarchus at Talari, Esquinas, and Rincon Bridge.
GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) – Abundant and widespread.
BOAT-BILLED FLYCATCHER (Megarynchus pitangua) – Common and widespread; mostly near water.
RUSTY-MARGINED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes cayanensis) – This Social Flycatcher-lookalike responded to calls and approached us along the road at Coto 47 marsh. It is a recent arrival in southern Costa Rica.
SOCIAL FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes similis) – Common and widespread.
GRAY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (Myiozetetes granadensis) – Common, but less abundant than Social Flycatcher. We had good looks in the Fork-tailed Flycatcher field near San Isidro and along the entrance road at Esquinas.
STREAKED FLYCATCHER (Myiodynastes maculatus) – This large, stripey flycatcher was seen at Rincon Bridge and Esquinas.
PIRATIC FLYCATCHER (Legatus leucophaius) – We scoped one at Rincon Bridge.
TROPICAL KINGBIRD (Tyrannus melancholicus) – The ominpresent "TK"; everywhere in open habitats.
So nice, we featured it twice; the 18 Yellow-billed Cotingas that we saw at Rincon Bridge on the Osa Peninsula were some of the rarest birds we saw during the tour. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
FORK-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus savana) – We found this outrageous flycatcher in field habitats near San Isidro and again in the Esquinas rice fields.
Cotingidae (Cotingas)
TURQUOISE COTINGA (Cotinga ridgwayi) – Three stunning males perched out for us at Rincon Bridge. What colors!
RUFOUS PIHA (Lipaugus unirufus) – One posed very cooperatively in the forest at Los Cusingos. Its ear-splitting song was remarkably tough to localize, but it stayed put long enough for us to eventually find its song perch.
YELLOW-BILLED COTINGA (Carpodectes antoniae) – We found a whopping 18 of this endangered species at Rincon Bridge. The brilliant males bopped around in the treetops; one repeatedly flew sorties across the river, right over our heads!
Pipridae (Manakins)
WHITE-RUFFED MANAKIN (Corapipo altera) – We found these handsome manakins at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
BLUE-CROWNED MANAKIN (Lepidothrix coronata) – Our best views were at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge, though we settled for the greenish females instead of a black-and-blue male.
ORANGE-COLLARED MANAKIN (Manacus aurantiacus) – These handsome manakins played hide-and-seek with us at Los Cusingos, Talari, and Esquinas, but we eventually saw them quite well.
RED-CAPPED MANAKIN (Ceratopipra mentalis) – This was one of Ann-Margreth's favorites for the tour -- best views came of two males right over the trail at Los Cusingos.
Tityridae (Tityras and Allies)
BLACK-CROWNED TITYRA (Tityra inquisitor) – One perched in a treetop at Rincon Bridge as we were boarding the bus.
MASKED TITYRA (Tityra semifasciata) – We found this "pajaro chanco" at Rincon Bridge and at Wilson.
CINNAMON BECARD (Pachyramphus cinnamomeus) – Our only one was a bird that posed nicely along the road near Rincon Bridge.
WHITE-WINGED BECARD (Pachyramphus polychopterus) – A nice pair foraged overhead near the tennis courts at Talari Mountain Lodge; another was near Wilson.
ROSE-THROATED BECARD (Pachyramphus aglaiae) – We found these in several spots in the south, including Wilson, but failed to find any rose throats (resident birds here, even the males, lack this feature).
Vireonidae (Vireos, Shrike-Babblers, and Erpornis)
YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons) – Fairly common migrant from the north; seen on most days in forest.
YELLOW-WINGED VIREO (Vireo carmioli) – This highland specialty of Costa Rica and western Panama put in a nice appearance above us at Paraiso Quetzal.
LESSER GREENLET (Hylophilus decurtatus) – These nondescript vireos were widespread in mixed flocks.
GREEN SHRIKE-VIREO (Vireolanius pulchellus) – We heard this canopy dweller's song at Los Cusingos and Esquinas. [*]
RUFOUS-BROWED PEPPERSHRIKE (Cyclarhis gujanensis) – This stocky vireo posed and sange its cheery song for us at two sites in the vicinity of Wilson Botanical Gardens.
Corvidae (Crows, Jays, and Magpies)
BROWN JAY (Psilorhinus morio) – Our only group views of this boisterous jay were at Talari Mountain Lodge, where we found a group of 4 including a pale-billed immature.
Hirundinidae (Swallows)
BLUE-AND-WHITE SWALLOW (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca) – These bicolored swallows were in the hills near San Isidro and San Vito, but absent in the lowlands near the Pacific Coast.
SOUTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis) – These were flying circuits over the river at Rincon Bridge.
This Flame-throated Warbler, a highland specialty of western Panama and Costa Rica, was in a busy mixed flock on the Cerro de la Muerte. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
MANGROVE SWALLOW (Tachycineta albilinea) – Common at Rincon Bridge, Golfito, Rio Tarcoles and other low-lying coastal areas.
BARN SWALLOW (Hirundo rustica) – We saw these northern migrants in several open areas between San Isidro and Golfito.
Troglodytidae (Wrens)
HOUSE WREN (Troglodytes aedon) – Common and widespread.
OCHRACEOUS WREN (Troglodytes ochraceus) – We saw a pair working vines from the porch at Paraiso Quetzal.
TIMBERLINE WREN (Thryorchilus browni) – This small wren was singing at several sites in Cerro de la Muerte; views came with difficulty in the vines and ground-level tangles.
RUFOUS-NAPED WREN (Campylorhynchus rufinucha) – These large wrens were along scrubby edges at Hotel Bougainvillea and at Rio Tarcoles.
BLACK-BELLIED WREN (Pheugopedius fasciatoventris) – We found these striking wrens in tangles at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.
RUFOUS-BREASTED WREN (Pheugopedius rutilus) – These wrens were widespread in dense vegetation in the lowlands.
PLAIN WREN (Cantorchilus modestus) – While we found the species at Hotel Bougainvillea before we left for the south, we had to wait until Day 5 for great views along the Esquinas entrance road. One sat in the scope for at least five minutes.
RIVERSIDE WREN (Cantorchilus semibadius) – This wren was heard far more often than it was seen, but we did track it down at several points in the lowlands.
WHITE-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucosticta) – This was the lowland wood-wren that we heard at Los Cusingos and Wilson. [*]
GRAY-BREASTED WOOD-WREN (Henicorhina leucophrys) – This was the highland wood-wren that played games with us along Providencia Rd. while we were searching for the Timberline Wren.
Polioptilidae (Gnatcatchers)
LONG-BILLED GNATWREN (Ramphocaenus melanurus) – We had brief views at the entrance to Los Cusingos and heard another at Wilson.
TROPICAL GNATCATCHER (Polioptila plumbea) – We saw several of these hyperactive gnatcatchers at Los Cusingos, Talari Mountain Lodge, and Esquinas.
Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)
BLACK-BILLED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus gracilirostris) – A few posed nicely along the entrance road into Paraiso Quetzal.
ORANGE-BILLED NIGHTINGALE-THRUSH (Catharus aurantiirostris) – A singing bird near the river at Talari Mountain Lodge eventually posed for the entire group.
SOOTY THRUSH (Turdus nigrescens) – A few of us had brief views near the Volcano Junco spot on Cerro de la Muerte.
CLAY-COLORED THRUSH (Turdus grayi) – Common and widespread; the national bird of Costa Rica.
WHITE-THROATED THRUSH (Turdus assimilis) – One was at Wilson BG on the last morning of the tour.
Mimidae (Mockingbirds and Thrashers)
TROPICAL MOCKINGBIRD (Mimus gilvus) – Increasing in the south; we actually found them in quite a few towns in the areas of San Isidro and San Vito.
Parulidae (New World Warblers)
NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Parkesia noveboracensis) – A common boreal migrant, seen well at Esquinas and near Rincon Bridge.
This Speckled Tanager was interested in the delicious bananas on the veranda at Wilson Botanical Gardens. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) – Boreal migrant, seen at Talari Mountain Lodge and Wilson BG.
FLAME-THROATED WARBLER (Oreothlypis gutturalis) – A highland specialty of Costa Rica and western Panama, we found this beauty along the road at Paraiso Quetzal.
TENNESSEE WARBLER (Oreothlypis peregrina) – Common and widespread migrant.
MASKED YELLOWTHROAT (CHIRIQU) (Geothlypis aequinoctialis chiriquensis) – We found two of these localized warblers in a small marsh near the Panama border below Wilson Botanical Gardens.
AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) – One of these boreal migrants was along the driveway at Talari Mountain Lodge.
TROPICAL PARULA (Setophaga pitiayumi) – We finally found this widespread warbler on the last morning at Wilson.
YELLOW WARBLER (Setophaga petechia) – Common and widespread. We saw one especially pale individual along the entrance road to Esquinas.
CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Setophaga pensylvanica) – Abundant boreal migrant; seen every day of the tour.
BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Setophaga virens) – We saw this boreal migrant at Paraiso Quetzal and Wilson BG.
RUFOUS-CAPPED WARBLER (Basileuterus rufifrons) – We had brief views at Hotel Bougainvillea and also near Esquinas.
BLACK-CHEEKED WARBLER (Basileuterus melanogenys) – Comon in highland flocks near Paraiso Quetzal and the Providencia Rd.
BUFF-RUMPED WARBLER (Myiothlypis fulvicauda) – Seen well, flitting in the open at Esquinas and Wilson Botanical Garden.
WILSON'S WARBLER (Cardellina pusilla) – Fairly common during our montane forest birding on Cerro de la Muerte.
SLATE-THROATED REDSTART (Myioborus miniatus) – We saw several of these active warblers spreading their wings and tails at Wilson on the last days of the tour.
COLLARED REDSTART (Myioborus torquatus) – Common in flocks in the forest at Cerro de la Muerte.
WRENTHRUSH (Zeledonia coronata) – We heard their ringing calls in tangly forest ravines on Cerro de la Muerte, but never saw this unique species. [*]
Thraupidae (Tanagers and Allies)
GRAY-HEADED TANAGER (Eucometis penicillata) – Our best views of this tanager came at the fruit feeders at Los Cusingos.
CHERRIE'S TANAGER (Ramphocelus costaricensis) – This is one of the most common songbirds in the forests of southern Costa Rica; we saw them all over the place, including at several fruit feeders. This is the southern/ Pacific replacement species for Passerini's Tanager.
BLUE-GRAY TANAGER (Thraupis episcopus) – Very common and widespread.
PALM TANAGER (Thraupis palmarum) – Very common and widespread.
GOLDEN-HOODED TANAGER (Tangara larvata) – Common and widespread.
Volcano Juncos are endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
SPANGLE-CHEEKED TANAGER (Tangara dowii) – We were happy to find this stunning tanager in the forest near Paraiso Quetzal.
BAY-HEADED TANAGER (Tangara gyrola) – We found these extremely colorful tanagers at Los Cusingos and at Wilson BG.
SILVER-THROATED TANAGER (Tangara icterocephala) – This was a common species at Wilson Botanical Garden; we got to see its splendid colors at close range at the fruit feeders there.
SCARLET-THIGHED DACNIS (Dacnis venusta) – A female was with a mixed flock at Talari Mountain Lodge.
BLUE DACNIS (Dacnis cayana) – We saw this striking small tanager in mixed flocks and feeders at several locations in the south.
SHINING HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes lucidus) – Fred found one along the road at Esquinas.
RED-LEGGED HONEYCREEPER (Cyanerpes cyaneus) – These bright sprites attended fruit at several feeding stations; we also found them in mixed flocks throughout the southern lowlands.
GREEN HONEYCREEPER (Chlorophanes spiza) – Common at fruit feeders, especially at Talari Mountain Lodge and Los Cusingos.
SLATY FLOWERPIERCER (Diglossa plumbea) – Several were in flocks on Cerro de la Muerte.
BLUE-BLACK GRASSQUIT (Volatinia jacarina) – These active "Johnny Jump-ups" were displaying frequently in grassy areas in the lowlands. Many were in the rice fields near Esquinas.
RUDDY-BREASTED SEEDEATER (Sporophila minuta) – A male popped up for views along the Esquinas entrance road as we headed toward Coto 47.
THICK-BILLED SEED-FINCH (Sporophila funerea) – A few were mixed in with seedeaters along the Esquinas entrance road.
VARIABLE SEEDEATER (Sporophila corvina) – Common and widespread; males of the Pacific race we encountered were pied with pale bellies and rumps.
WHITE-COLLARED SEEDEATER (Sporophila torqueola) – Fairly common; most of ours were along the entrance road to Esquinas.
YELLOW-BELLIED SEEDEATER (Sporophila nigricollis) – A few popped up in the rice along the Esquinas entrance road.
SLATE-COLORED SEEDEATER (Sporophila schistacea) – Scarce; just a few males popped up in the rice and roadside vegetation along the Esquinas entrance road.
BANANAQUIT (Coereba flaveola) – Common and widespread.
YELLOW-FACED GRASSQUIT (Tiaris olivaceus) – We saw a male briefly from the veranda at Wilson.
BUFF-THROATED SALTATOR (Saltator maximus) – Common and widespread.
This Black-cheeked Ant-Tanager was one of a small group of this localized Costa Rican endemic that we saw along the Golfito Road. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
STREAKED SALTATOR (Saltator striatipectus) – At least one approached to feed at the fruit feeder at Wilson.
Emberizidae (Buntings and New World Sparrows)
YELLOW-THIGHED FINCH (Pselliophorus tibialis) – One of these large finches with the puffy yellow leg feathers appeared outside the window and caused brief pandemonium during our lunch at Paraiso Quetzal.
LARGE-FOOTED FINCH (Pezopetes capitalis) – One of these huge finches approached us through the undergrowth and sat in the open along the road at Paraiso Quetzal.
ORANGE-BILLED SPARROW (Arremon aurantiirostris) – A few folks saw these at Esquinas, but our best group views came from along the trail at Wilson Botanical Gardens.
COSTA RICAN BRUSH-FINCH (Arremon costaricensis) – After some searching, we eventually found this secretive species down the hill from Wilson Botanical Gardens.
BLACK-STRIPED SPARROW (Arremonops conirostris) – Our best views came near the office at Wilson.
RUFOUS-COLLARED SPARROW (Zonotrichia capensis) – Common in the hills and highlands, but absent in the lowlands near the coast.
VOLCANO JUNCO (Junco vulcani) – A few very curious individuals with their bright yellow eyes approached us at close range near the radio towers on Cerro de la Muerte.
COMMON CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus flavopectus) – These were common near the feeders at Wilson.
SOOTY-CAPPED CHLOROSPINGUS (Chlorospingus pileatus) – Quite common in forest in the highlands of Cerro de la Muerte.
Cardinalidae (Cardinals and Allies)
SUMMER TANAGER (Piranga rubra) – A common boreal migrant; seen every day.
WHITE-WINGED TANAGER (Piranga leucoptera) – We found a male at Wilson Botanical Gardens on the last morning of the tour.
RED-CROWNED ANT-TANAGER (Habia rubica) – We found these skulking forest songbirds on the trails at Talari and Wilson.
BLACK-CHEEKED ANT-TANAGER (Habia atrimaxillaris) – This endemic forest ant-tanager was a delightful feature of our stay at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge. While we heard them each morning at the lodge itself, our good views came from the dense forest along Golfito Rd. [E]
BLACK-THIGHED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus tibialis) – One of these highland specialties was eating fruit above the pond at Paraiso Quetzal.
ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus ludovicianus) – A small group was near the feeders at Talari Mountain Lodge.
Icteridae (Troupials and Allies)
EASTERN MEADOWLARK (Sturnella magna) – These were in grasslands in the Central Valley and near Esquinas.
RED-BREASTED BLACKBIRD (Sturnella militaris) – A few were in open pastures along the road in to Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.
MELODIOUS BLACKBIRD (Dives dives) – Common in the Central Valley, including at Hotel Bougainvillea.
GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE (Quiscalus mexicanus) – Common and widespread.
SHINY COWBIRD (Molothrus bonariensis) – We found this recent invader in small groups between Esquinas and Golfito.
BRONZED COWBIRD (Molothrus aeneus) – These were in small roadside flocks in the south, including mixed with Shiny Cowbirds between Esquinas and Golfito.
GIANT COWBIRD (Molothrus oryzivorus) – One was near Ciudad Neily during our drive to Wilson Botanical Gardens.
ORCHARD ORIOLE (Icterus spurius) – Several were in flowering trees near Coto 47.
BALTIMORE ORIOLE (Icterus galbula) – We found these boreal migrants near Hotel Bougainvillea and in the San Isidro area.
Male Euphonias are snazzy, but even the females can be well-marked. This female Spot-crowned Euphonia was at Wilson Botanical Gardens. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
CRESTED OROPENDOLA (Psarocolius decumanus) – We stopped at a small colony uphill from Ciudad Neily and another in San Vito.
Fringillidae (Finches, Euphonias, and Allies)
YELLOW-CROWNED EUPHONIA (Euphonia luteicapilla) – We found these at a few places in the south, including in mixed flocks at Talari.
THICK-BILLED EUPHONIA (Euphonia laniirostris) – These were along the Esquinas entrance road and at Wilson.
SPOT-CROWNED EUPHONIA (Euphonia imitans) – These were at Esquinas and Wilson; several attended feeders at the latter site.
LESSER GOLDFINCH (Spinus psaltria) – Seen on a few occasions near Wilson.
Passeridae (Old World Sparrows)
HOUSE SPARROW (Passer domesticus) – We found these introduced birds in the San Jose area and while driving through San Isidro. [I]
MAMMALS
LONG-NOSED BAT (Rhynchonycteris naso) – Roosting on a tree and under the roof of a cabin at Esquinas.
GREATER WHITE-LINED BAT (Saccopteryx bilineata) – The "bar bats" at Esquinas.
JAMAICAN FRUIT-EATING BAT (Artibeus jamaicensis) – Day-roosting at Los Cusingos.
WHITE-THROATED CAPUCHIN (Cebus capucinus) – Small groups at Los Cusingos, Wilson Botanical Gardens, and along the road.
VARIEGATED SQUIRREL (Sciurus variegatoides)
RED-TAILED SQUIRREL (Sciurus granatensis)
MEXICAN HAIRY PORCUPINE (Coendou mexicanus) – Found on a day roost at Los Cusingos by Vernon.
CENTRAL AMERICAN AGOUTI (Dasyprocta punctata)
KINKAJOU (Potos flavus) – Feeding at night above the parking lot at Esquinas; viewed with a spotlight.
Herps
GREEN IGUANA (Iguana iguana)
American Crocodiles smiled at us from the sandbars below the Rio Tarcoles bridge on the last day of the tour. Photo by guide Tom Johnson.
TROPICAL HOUSE GECKO (Hemidactylus mabouia)
BOA CONSTRICTOR (Boa constrictor) – A large specimen was stretched out on the Golfito Rd. in front of the bus.
AMERICAN CROCODILE (Crocodylus acutus) – Around three dozen of these magnificent beasts lounged on sand bars below the bridge over the Rio Tarcoles.
SPECTACLED CAIMAN (Caiman crocodilus) – Several were in the pond at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.
CANE TOAD (Bufo marinus)
BRILLIANT FOREST FROG (Rana warszewitschii)
MESO-AMERICAN SLIDER (Trachemys venusta)
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Totals for the tour: 329 bird taxa and 9 mammal taxa