Chasing Feathers: A Guide to the Top 9 Most Sought-After Birds in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a birder’s paradise, with an incredibly diverse range of avian life that is sure to captivate and inspire bird enthusiasts of all levels. From toucans to parakeets, hummingbirds to hawks, there is something for everyone in this lush and vibrant country. In this blog post, we will highlight the top ten sought-after birds for bird watchers in Costa Rica.

Resplendent Quetzal: The Resplendent Quetzal is a legendary bird that is highly sought after by bird watchers in Costa Rica. This beautiful bird is known for its striking green, red, and blue plumage, which can reach up to two feet in length. The Resplendent Quetzal is a shy bird and is usually found in the cloud forests of the country, making it a true prize for those who are lucky enough to spot one.

Scarlet Macaw: The Scarlet Macaw is another iconic bird that is highly prized by bird watchers in Costa Rica. This large parrot is known for its striking red and blue plumage and its distinctive screeching calls. The Scarlet Macaw is a social bird and is often seen in pairs or small flocks, making it a great target for birding groups.

Toucan: The Toucan is a large, colorful bird that is easily recognizable by its large, bill. This bird is known for its bright, bold plumage, which can range from black and yellow to green and red. The Toucan is a noisy bird and is often heard before it is seen, making it an excellent target for bird watchers who are listening for its distinctive calls.

The Keel Billed Toucan is known for its colorful beak

Hummingbirds: Costa Rica is home to a diverse range of hummingbirds, including the Violet Sabrewing, the Green Thorntail, and the White-necked Jacobin. These small, fast-flying birds are known for their incredible aerial agility and their bright, iridescent plumage, making them a favorite among bird watchers.

Woodpeckers: Costa Rica is home to several species of woodpeckers, including the Black-cheeked Woodpecker, the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and the American Three-toed Woodpecker. These birds are known for their distinctive drumming and their unique feeding habits, making them a popular target for bird watchers who are interested in these fascinating creatures.

Parakeets: Costa Rica is home to several species of parakeets, including the Olive-throated Parakeet, the Orange-chinned Parakeet, and the Red-lored Parakeet. These colorful birds are known for their playful behavior and their distinctive calls, making them a must-see for bird watchers who are interested in these lively and energetic creatures.

Green parrots sit on a palm tree in the afternoon sun

Hawks: Costa Rica is home to a variety of hawks, including the Broad-winged Hawk, the Swainson’s Hawk, and the Short-tailed Hawk. These birds of prey are known for their sharp eyesight and their impressive aerial skills, making them a popular target for bird watchers who are interested in these powerful and graceful hunters.

Kingfishers: Costa Rica is home to several species of kingfishers, including the Green Kingfisher, the Amazon Kingfisher, and the Ringed Kingfisher. These birds are known for their bright plumage and their distinctive calls, making them a favorite among bird watchers who are interested in these fascinating and beautiful birds.

Tanagers: Costa Rica is home to several species of tanagers, including the Scarlet Tanager, the Summer Tanager

Would you like to go bird watching in Costa Rica? Our experienced travel and tour agents can arrange the experience of a lifetime!