Costa Rica is a true jewel of Central America and is world-renowned not only for its incredible biodiversity but also as one of the top birding destinations worldwide. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this small country boasts around 950 bird species, making it a must-visit for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Tourism began back in the 19th century along with the global rise in the concept. Aided by the Industrial Revolution freeing up more time and disposable income for wealthier swathes of society, and abetted by advancements in transportation, Europeans and North Americans visited Costa Rica in their droves. Tourism flourished through the mid-20th century, and when ecotourism gained popularity in the 80s and 90s, the country was well-positioned to promote its natural landscapes of tropical rainforests and cloud forests. Unlike some of its neighbors, Costa Rica’s stable democratic governance and strong environmental policies helped protect its natural heritage early on, making it accessible and attractive to international visitors, and it never experienced the political turmoil or military dictatorships that kept other Central American countries off many travelers’ radar. This political stability, combined with pioneering conservation efforts, helped Costa Rica become a global leader in ecotourism.
Today, Costa Rica is a hotspot for sustainable travel, with an emphasis on preserving wildlife habitats while welcoming millions of tourists each year. Birdwatching is a major draw, with well-maintained trails, national parks, and reserves that offer glimpses of colorful and rare species. Owen recently returned from an unforgettable trip there and has shared some breathtaking photos of birds he encountered. Here are just a few of the incredible species to be found.
A common yet impressive raptor throughout Central and South America, the Roadside Hawk gets its name from its propensity to perch along roadsides and forest edges, scanning for prey. Combined with this visibility, its sharp eyes and agile flight make it a familiar sight for birders.
Known for its silky plumage and dramatically long tail, the Long-tailed Silky-Flycatcher is an elegant inhabitant of Costa Rica’s montane and cloud forests. Males have a lemon-yellow body, gray head and crest, and black wings and tail, while females are similar but paler with a more muted contrast. Its soft calls and graceful movements add magic to the mountain birding experience.
This vividly colored Central American bird with a turquoise crown and eyebrow, olive-green back, and striking blue racquet-tipped tail feathers is a favorite among bird photographers and can often be spotted in open woodlands and gardens. Its bold facial mask, red eyes, and unique tail-wagging display make it both visually iconic and behaviorally distinctive.
This member of the unique toucan family stands out with its beautiful mix of colors. Their mostly black head, throat and upper chest helps dramatize that vibrant orange-red upper mandible of its bill, giving the bird its name. The mostly yellow belly with the large dark breast spot and a band of warm red through the middle is completed by deep greenish-black wings and chestnut tail. Aracaris are social birds that exhibit playful behavior and travel in small groups, and their colorful presence enlivens the rainforest canopy.
Whether you dream of tropical birding or are planning your next adventure, the website is a fantastic resource. Use the interactive globe or browse the country list to explore bird photos from around the world, and you can also filter by activity, so each species tells its own unique story.
Ready to see more birding wonders? Visit Owen’s website and start exploring!
