Report of a bird watching trip to Costa Rica · Explored the area beyond the lodge in early morning, drove to Manuel Antonio for a coffee and continued to Golfo Dulce. Golfito, Esquinas

Report of a bird watching trip to

Costa Rica from 28 July to 18 August 2018 by Inge and Dick Meijer

Snowcap, Rancho Naturalista and Humpback Whale, mother with calf, off Corcovado National Park.

Introduction

Attracted by its overwhelming nature, we (Inge and Dick Meijer) decided to pay a three–week–visit to Costa Rica. We hoped to be able to take decent photographs of Costa Rica's wild life and to find a few species of bird missed during a previous visit to the country in 1991 and more recent visits to Mexico (2004 + 2017), Belize (2004), Guatemala (2004) and Panama (2010). We focused on the central highlands and the Pacific coast, including Peninsula de Osa.

We recorded 351 species of bird of which 17 (not too bad!) were heard only. We found 3 of the 6 Costa Rican endemic species of bird and 40 of the 68 near–endemic species of bird which Costa Rica shares with Western Panama. The three best species were: Snowcap in Rancho Naturalista, Streak–chested Antpitta in Carara and Black–crested Coquette in Rancho Naturalista. Of the missed species Snowy Cotinga (La Selva Biological Station), Bicolored Hawk (breeding pair around Rancho Naturalista), Red–fronted Parrotlet (Silent Mountain near Rancho Naturalista) and my bogey bird in South and Central America Striped Owl (Esquinas Rainforest lodge) rank high.

We recorded 22 species of mammal of which Baird's Tapir in Serena was the most appreciated one; Humpback Whale and Pantropical Spotted Dolphin were other goodies.

Traveling in Costa Rica is quite easy. We hired a Daihatsu Terios, which could handle all types of – even the very steep – dirt roads. We did not want to cross the Rio Tigre with it, however. We waded through that river and another 4 W–drive car took our luggage. Most roads are rather quiet, we only had a traffic jam in San José in the afternoon.

We were quite satisfied with the accommodations we had booked (via www.booking.com or www.hotels.com), though some hotels were superior to others in terms of comfort, food and service. Wifi was available at most places, only in Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge and in Jungla del Jaguar it was not easy to get a connection with the Internet.

At several places we worked with a local bird–watching or a general nature– guide. Without exception they were very knowledgeable and very kind persons. It was a great pleasure being guided by them.

Plenty of ingredients for a frequent experience of 'Pura Vida', Costa Rica's unique selling–point!

Itinerary

Date Transport and activities Accommodation

28–07–18

Flight Amsterdam – Detroit – Atlanta – San José. San José, Vista los Volcanes.

29–07–18

San José – Turrialba – Rancho Naturalista; walked around the lodge.

Tuis, Rancho Naturalista.

30–07–18

Walked around the lodge and deeper into the forest, drove down to the valley.

Tuis, Rancho Naturalista.

31–07–18

Drove to Rio Reventazon and Silent Mountain and continued to La Selva Biological Station near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui; walked the Rio Station trail.

Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, La Selva Biological Station.

01–08–18

Walked trails across the bridge before breakfast, did the general nature tour after breakfast and walked the trail in front of the bridge in the afternoon.


02–08–18

Walked along the access road before breakfast and walked the trail in front of the bridge after breakfast.


03–08–18

Walked along the access road in early morning, drove to Chocolate Tours counter to take photographs of Scarlet Macaws and continued to Arenal. Explored the route to Mistico Hanging Bridges Park.

Arenal, Volcano Gold Loft.

04–08–18

Walked in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park in the morning and drove to Santa Elena in the afternoon.

Sante Elena, Apartamento ArteSana.

05–08–18

Walked in Santa Elena reserve in the morning and visited the Hummingbird Gallery in the early afternoon, made a night walk in Santa Elena.

Santa Elena, Apartamento ArteSana.

06–08–18

Walked in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve in early morning, visited the Hummingbird Gallery again and drove to the coast.

Puntarenas, Hotel Cerro lodge.

07–08–18

Walked in Carara National park and made a boat trip on the Tarcoles river.

Puntarenas, Hotel Cerro lodge.

08–08–18

Explored the area beyond the lodge in early morning, drove to Manuel Antonio for a coffee and continued to Golfo Dulce.

Golfito, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

09–08–18

Walked around the lodge in the morning, drove the access road in the afternoon and again in the dark after dinner.

Golfito, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

10–08–18

Walked around the lodge again before and after breakfast and drove to Dos Brazos, where we walked the trail to the lagoon from Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

Dos Brazos, Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

11–08–18

Went uphill before dawn, drove to Rincon bridge with stops at Dos Brazos and Playa Sandalo and walked to the ridge above the lodge in the afternoon.

Dos Brazos, Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

12–08–18

Went uphill again before dawn, drove to Sierpe, went to Drake Bay by boat and further to Jungla del Jaguar and did a whale trip in the afternoon.

Corcovado, Drake Bay, Jungla del Jaguar.

13–08–18

Went to Serena by boat, walked in Corcovado National Park and went back to Jungla del Jaguar.

Corcovado, Drake Bay, Jungla del Jaguar.

14–08–18

Went to Drake Bay by boat and further to Sierpe, drove to KM. 70 in the central highlands.

KM. 70, Cerro de la Muerte, Mirador de Quetzales.

15–08–18

Drove to Trinity in the morning and to San Gerardo de Dota in the afternoon, took photographs in Batsu and went back to Mirador de Quetzales.

KM. 70, Cerro de la Muerte, Mirador de Quetzales.

16–08–18

Drove to San Gerardo de Dota, drove back to Mirador de Quetzales, walked the Robledal trail and continued to San José.

San José, Vista los Volcanes.

Table 1: Itinerary in Costa Rica

Day–by–day–account

28 July

Left home at 5.15 hrs. to be taken to Schiphol airport by taxi. Flew with KLM flight KL 6035, executed by Delta Air, from Amsterdam to Detroit (7 hours and 50 minutes) and continued with Delta Air flight DL 0325 from Detroit to San José with a stopover in Atlanta (1 hour and 25 minutes and 3 hours and 25 minutes). Arrived in warm and humid San José at 19.53 hrs. (8 hours time difference) and were taken to hotel Vista los Volcanes by the hotel shuttle. Slept in hotel Vista los Volcanes (http://www.residencias–volcanes.com and +50622654246), a Bed–and–Breakfast accommodation, which was very much okay.

29 July

Did some pre–breakfast bird watching around the hotel which produced some common species. Were taken to the airport by the free hotel shuttle and from the airport to the nearby Europcar office at Mango Plaza by Europcar, arranged our rental car and drove to Rancho Naturalista (3 hours). Had lunch at the platform of this luxurious and tastefully decorated hotel watching and photographing the many hummingbirds at the feeders and flowers in the garden. Saw our first female Snowcap and met talkative landlady Lisa and not much later our guide Cali. Found our first male Snowcap – which would become the best bird of the trip! – next to the parking of our car and walked the trail to the hummingbird pool and the feeders in the forest (Band–tailed Barbthroat). Had beautiful and dry weather, no wind, and temperatures of 24 ˚C. Slept in Rancho Naturalista (http://www.ranchonaturalista.net), which was fantastic with an interesting garden, excellent services, a very friendly landlady and delicious meals, without doubt the best place we stayed during our trip.

17–08–18

Flight San José – Atlanta – Amsterdam. On the plane.

18–08–18

Were driven home from the airport. At home.

30 July

Started bird watching with our guide Cali ([email protected]) from the platform of the hotel 5.30 hrs. (Black–throated Wren heard only), walked to the insect lamp (Tawny–chested Flycatcher) and along the forest feeders (Band–tailed Barbthroat and Stripe–breasted Wren) to the Quail–Dove trail (Russet Antshrike and Dull–mantled Antbird). Chiriqui Quail–Dove could not be found here. Went back to the lodge and drove downhill to the valley, where we found White–throated Flycatcher and Olive–crowned Yellowthroat as well as White–throated Crake to our surprise. Drove uphill to the lodge again and found in the garden of Wayne Easley, the owner of Rancho Naturalista, Black–crested Coquette and Garden Emerald, two highly sought–after hummingbirds. Had rain in the afternoon but could make a short walk after 15.30 hrs. Slept in Rancho Naturalista again.

31 July

Birded around the lodge from 5.30 hrs. and found Sulphur–rumped Flycatcher near the forest feeders. Walked downhill along access road to the lek of White–crowned Manakins, where now also Black–throated Wren could be seen very well. Drove to Silent Mountain after breakfast and found a – from a photographer’s point of view – very cooperative Sunbittern near the bridge over Rio Reventazon to the sugar mills. Higher up the mountain a Cabanis’s Wren showed itself very well finally. Searched Red–fronted Parrotlet and Bicolored Hawk in vain and said goodbye to our excellent guide. Drove to La Selva Biological Station (= OTS) from 11.00 to 15.00 hrs., where hospitality, quality of the room and food were in stark contrast with the place we came from. Walked the Rio Station trail in beautiful primary forest across the bridge (Buff–rumped Warbler, Rufous Motmot and Collared Peccary). High humidity and temperatures made walking a sweaty affair. No rain yet. Slept in La Selva Biological Station (https://www.threepaths.co.cr/laselva_general_info.shtml), which was just okay, but yet the least pleasant place we stayed during our trip.

1 August

Walked trails across the bridge again before breakfast (Slaty–breasted Tinamou seen at close quarters) and made an interesting ‘general nature walk’ after breakfast perfectly guided by George (Rufous–winged

Woodpecker and Tamandua, great fun!). Walked the trail in front of the bridge in secondary forest in the afternoon, but were washed away by heavy rain. Slept in La Selva Biological Station.

2 August

Birded along the access road to the reception, in the neighborhood of the soccer field and the bridge in the morning guided by George, but the much sought–after Snowy Cotinga remained unseen. Walked the trail in front of the bridge again after breakfast without a guide, but this was rather uneventful. In the afternoon heavy rainfall made any activity impossible. Slept in La Selva Biological Station again.

3 August

Till 10.00 hrs. searched once more Snowy Cotinga, but the birds didn’t perch on one of the well–known trees they often use. Drove to the Chocolate Tours counter near Sarapiqui, along the road to Arenal, met Rudolpho there (brother of Joel, main guide in La Selva) and could take photographs of Green–and–black Poison–Dart Frog and Scarlet Macaw. Great Green Macaws decided to feed elsewhere. Drove to Fortuna and Arenal and quickly found the new Volcano Gold Loft hotel. Explored the road to the Mistico Hanging Bridges Park (45 minutes each way) and slept and ate in Volcano Gold Loft ([email protected] and +50624790306): excellent room, but far too expensive wine.

4 August

Drove to the Mistico Hanging Bridges Park ([email protected] and www.misticopark.com) at 5.00 hrs. and made a productive walk (66 species) expertly guided by Donald Alpizar ([email protected]) in the park from 6.00 to 11.00 hrs. Noteworthy species were: Great Curassow,

Rufous–winged Tanager, White–throated Shrike–Tanager, Spot–crowned

Arenal Volcano, Arenal.

Antvireo, two obliging Black–capped Nightingale–Thrushes, King Vulture and Swallow–tailed Kite. Missed the hoped for Blue–and–gold Tanager. Drove back to our hotel to collect our luggage and continued to Santa Elena near Monteverde (4 hours) where we found the access road to Apartamento ArteSAna with some difficulty. Skipped our planned night walk because of rain. Slept in Apartamento ArteSAna (https://www.gites.fr/gites_apartamento–artesana_monte–verde_h1904239_en.htm), a Bed–and–Breakfast accommodation, which was okay, especially thanks to the very helpful landlady.

5 August

Walked the trails of Santa Elena reserve guided by Eber (again excellent) in constant, now and then heavy rain fall, together with the Belgian lady Grethel. Best species were: Yellowish Flycatcher (on the parking) and Spangle–cheeked Tanager, also Black Guan, Silvery–fronted Tapaculo (albeit heard only) and Chestnut–capped Brushfinch. Missed Turquoise–browed Motmot and Plain–capped Starthroat. Drove to the Hummingbird Gallery

opposite the entrance of Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve with good opportunities to take photographs of the 8 species of hummingbird, which were feeding at that time. Made an interesting night walk in good weather (Two–toed Sloth and Mottled Owl). Slept in Apartamento ArteSAna again.

6 August

Walked in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve from 7.00 to 10.00 hrs. by ourselves, which was rather uneventful. Missed Highland Tinamou and Rufous–necked Wood–Quail. Went back to the Hummingbird Gallery to take decent photographs of Stripe–tailed Hummingbird we had missed so far. Drove downhill to Carara from 11.00 to 15.00 hrs., where the pleasant Hotel Cerro lodge was easily found. Enjoyed the view from the restaurant and arranged our excursions for the next day. Slept in the very much okay Hotel Cerro lodge (http://hotelcerrolodge.com) which had very helpful staff.

7 August

Walked in Carara National Park from 8.00 to 12.30 hrs. guided by Michael (excellent guide again) with Northern Bentbill, Streak–chested Antpitta (incredibly good views!) and American Redstart (totally unexpected) as best species. Missed the hoped for Pacific Screech–Owl and Turqoise–browed Motmot. Nice walk, but it’s a shame the park does not open earlier: at 8.00 hrs. the best time for birding is already at an end. Drove to Tarcoles to join the 13.30 a.m.–boat trip by Jungle Crocodile Safari ([email protected] and www.junglecrocodilesafari.com) with Mangrove Vireo, Boat–billed Heron and a few huge American Crocodiles (with names like ‘Osama bin Laden’, because hard to find and ‘Mike Tyson’, because of an aberrant ear) as highlights, expertly guided by Milky and his anonymous boatman. Slept in Hotel Cerro lodge again.

8 August

Explored the area beyond the lodge before breakfast, which produced a few ‘wet’ species. Drove south after breakfast, had a short stop at Manuel Antonio (‘not our cup of tea’, too crowded and too inhospitable) and continued to Esquina Rainforest lodge in Golfo Dulce, where we arrived at 15.30 hrs. Arranged our excursion for the next day with Manuel and André and enjoyed the scenery and luxury of this beautiful place. Slept in Esquina

Rainforest lodge (www.esquinasrainforestlodge.com), which provides excellent accommodation, food and services.

9 August

Birded around the lodge from 6.00 to 12.15 hrs. guided by André (again a knowledgeable guide), which produced Orange–collared Manakin, the endemic Black–cheeked Ant–Tanager, Golden–naped Woodpecker, Spot–crowned Euphonia and Charming Hummingbird. Drove the access road in the afternoon to find Costa Rican Swift above the pastures. Did some fruitless ‘owling’ after dinner and only found Common Pauraque, perhaps due to the rainy weather. Missed Striped Owl and Black–and–white Owl for that reason. Slept in Esquinas Rainforest lodge again.

10 August

Birded around the lodge and on the Riverbed trail from 6.00 to 8.30 hrs. again, which produced only improvements of species seen before:

Orange–collared Manakin, Little Tinamou and Black–faced Antthrush on the trail and Golden–naped Woodpecker. Left Esquinas Rainforest lodge at 11.00 hrs. and drove to Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge close to the village of Dos Brazos near Puerto Jiminez at Peninsula de Osa. Arrived there at 13.30 hrs. and met talkative Elizabeth Jones and quiet Abraham Gallo, who escorted us while wading through the river on foot and took our luggage to the lodge by their 4W–drive car. Slept in Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge which is striking by the lack of windows, delicious meals and its positioning across a river that is sometimes hard to cross. (www.bosquedelriotigre.com and [email protected]).

11 August

Walked uphill from the lodge before 5.00 hrs. and heard the much sought–after Scaly–throated Leaftosser. Drove to Rincon bridge with stops around Dos Brazos, where Abraham discovered a Turquoise Cotinga and Boat–billed Heron at a small lagoon. Found a Yellow–billed Cotinga and a

second Turquoise Cotinga at Rincon Bridge. Stopped on the way back at Playa Sandalo where Mangrove Hummingbird was present, but the Black–and–white Owl roosting here often could not be found. Went uphill again to the very ridge in the afternoon, where we found Spot–crowned Euphonia,

Scarlet Macaw and Mealy Parrot. Also found a hovering Bronzy Hermit just above the lodge; missed Yellow–bellied Tyrannulet heard around the lodge earlier today. Slept in Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge lodge again.

12 August

Went uphill again before 5.00 hrs. and had great views of Scaly–throated Leaftosser this time, whereas Tawny–winged Woodcreeper was heard. Left Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge at 7.30 hrs. after having paid the steep price. Drove to Sierpe at the northern side of Osa Peninsula, and drove with skipper Chachan by boat to Drake and further west to Jungla del Jaguar (one hour and 45 minutes at sea), which pleased us from the very beginning. Made a mini whale trip in the afternoon, which produced multiple views of Humpback Whale with calves and Pantropical Spotted Dolphins. Slept in Jungla del Jaguar – the best value for money of all accommodations we stayed in during our trip – cooled by a sea breeze (www.jungladeljaguar.com).

View from Jungla del Jaguar, Corcovado National Park

13 August

Went to Serena in Corcovado National Park at 6.30 hrs. by boat and made a walk with guide – again excellent – Manuel, which produced Baird’s Tapir, Great Curassow, Great Tinamou, Black–throated Trogon at very close quarters and Golden–crowned Spadebill (found by ourselves). Went back on a bumpy sea after lunch in the Serena headquarters. Had much rain and wind the rest of the day; Black or Least Storm–Petrel did not make their appearance, however. Slept in Jungla del Jaguar again.

14 August

Left Jungla del Jaguar on a calm sea at 7.00 hrs. and went to Drake Bay by boat – once more assisted by the helpful and enthusiastic staff of Jungla del Jaguar – and Sierpe. Drove by car to Mirador de Quetzales (3 hours) at an altitude of 2,700 m. in the central mountains, where it was pretty cool. Slept in one of the cabins of Mirador de Quetzales (www.elmiradordequetzales.com and [email protected]), which was okay whereas the meals were very tasty.

15 August

With guide Oscar went 8 kilometers downhill to Trinity, a village with a strawberry nursery and found at least 8 Resplendent Quetzales and a single

, went back to Mirador de Quetzales for breakfast and drove to San Gerardo de Dota to the private garden Batsu opposite hotel Savegre, where a variety of birds visit the feeders, offering great photographic opportunities. Best species here: Scintillant Hummingbird, White–throated Mountain–gem, Golden–browed Chlorophonia and Flame–colored Tanager. In the evening no sign of life of Dusky Nightjar. Slept in Mirador de Quetzales again.

16 August

Drove to San Gerardo de Dota at 5.30 hrs with our guide Jason – though in this case there was no question of guiding and thus the excursion was overpriced – and joined the crowd (over 50 people) at the hillside platform of Los Felos Quetzal view point where we had great views of two

Resplendent Quetzals and a single . Drove back to Mirador de Quetzales, found Wrenthrush just below the hotel, had breakfast at 8.15 hrs. and walked the Robledal self–guided–trail from 9.30 to 12.30 hrs. with

Ochraceous Wren and Hairy Woodpecker as highlights, while Ochraceous Pewee and Chiriqui Quail–Dove we had hoped for, remained unseen. Packed our luggage and drove to San José (2 hours and 15 minutes, despite the traffic jam in San José). Were taken to the Vista los Volcanes hotel by the hotel shuttle, after returning our hired car at Europcar. Had a delicious meal in the atmospheric Peruvian restaurant Tierra Mar. Slept in hotel Vista los Volcanes, which is to be recommended!

17 August

Left Vista los Volcanes hotel – coffee served by the owner at 4.00 hrs., free shuttle perfectly in time available at that very early hour: great service! – at 4.15 hrs. and were taken by the hotel shuttle to Juan Santamaria International Airport of San José. Flew with Delta Airlines flight DL 0902 from San José to Atlanta (4 hours) and with Air France flight AF 3637, executed by Delta Air, from Atlanta to Amsterdam (7 hours and 55 minutes). Slept on the plane.

18 August

Landed at Schiphol airport, Amsterdam at 6.00 hrs. and were taken home by our son Evert.

Targets, endemics and near–endemics

DM came to Costa Rica with a wish–list of 116 targets plus 10 species he had only heard before, of this 126 species 26 species were migratory and thus highly unlikely in July and August. 35 targets were found, one target was heard only (Tawny–winged Woodcreeper) and three species previously only heard were now seen. We found all three (Coppery–headed Hummingbird, Mangrove Hummingbird and Black–cheeked Ant–Tanager) endemic species of bird of Costa Rica's mainland; three more endemics occur on Cocos Island. And we found 40 of the 68 near–endemic species, which Costa Rica shares with Western Panama; 50 near–endemics can be found in the highlands and 18 in the lowlands (http://www.angelfire.com/bc/gonebirding/endemics.html).

Table 2: Number of targets possible and seen, endemics and near–endemics seen or heard per site; + indicates seen at that site but already seen before at another site.

It is very obvious that Rancho Naturalista produced the highest number of 'targets seen' (13), whereas Mirador de Quetzales produced the highest number of 'near–endemics seen or heard' (20). La Selva Biological Station has the lowest score on 'targets seen' and 'near–endemics seen or heard' combined (2), which is unexpected and disappointing. Esquinas Rainforest lodge and Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge both have high scores on ' targets seen' and 'near–endemics seen or heard' combined, 18 and 17 respectively, which is somewhat surprising; perhaps the value of Corcovado National park should not be underestimated.

Annoyances and dangers

There is not much to complain about in Costa Rica. The worst things we experienced were: traffic jam in San José, humid heat in the lowlands

Site Targets possible and seen

Targets heard only

Heard only's

possible and

improved

Ende–mics

seen or heard

Near–endemics seen or heard

Rancho Naturalista 40 ↔ 13 0 4 ↔ 1 0 2

La Selva Biological Station 38 ↔ 1 +

1

0 6 ↔ 0 0 0

Arenal 46 ↔ 4 +

4

0 4 ↔ 0 0 0

Santa Elena and Monte Verde

2 ↔ 2 + 0 0 ↔ 0 1 9

Carara and Rio Tarcoles 29 ↔ 3 0 4 ↔ 1 0 3

Esquinas Rainforest 24 ↔ 5 +

4

0 7 ↔ 1 1 9

Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge and Rincon

27 ↔ 5 + 1 6 ↔ 0 2 9

Jungla del Jaguar and Serena

22 ↔ 1 0 3 ↔ 0 0 1

Mirador de Quetzales and San Gerardo de Dota

17 ↔ 1 0 2 ↔ 0 0 20

accompanied by numerous bugs, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the afternoon and at night and a few overpriced services and articles ordered. We felt absolutely safe everywhere, but took the usual security measures against theft and snakes.

Weather

Weather is a serious issue in Costa Rica, especially during the rainy season, when we were there. We had heavy rainfall almost every day, often accompanied by severe thunderstorms. Usually the mornings are dry and the showers build up in the course of the afternoon. In the lowlands it is humid and very warm, resulting in wet clothing due to sweating already after a few minutes of walking. In the highlands it is much cooler, even cold at 2,700 m. altitude of Mirador de Quetzales at Cerro de la Muerte (KM. 70).

References

In the field we used the following books:

• Richard Garrigues and Robert Dean, The Birds of Costa Rica, a field guide, second edition, Cornell University Press, 2014, ISBN 978–0–8014. Quite accurate though some immature plumages of hummingbirds are not depicted, e.g. those of Snowcap and White–necked Jacobin.

• Barret Lawson, A Bird–Finding Guide to Costa Rica, Cornell University Press, 2009, ISBN 978–0–8014–7584–9. Handy now and then.

We also used an app in the field:

• The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Merlin, Costa Rica. Contains sound–recording of most Costa Rican birds. Very handy.

While preparing and digesting our trip we also used:

• Louise H. Emmons and François Feer, Neotropical Rainforest Mammals, A Field Guide, The University of Chicago Press, 1990, ISBN 0–226–20716–1

• Matthew D. Firestone, Guyan Mitra and Wensy Yanagihara, (Lonely Planet), Costa Rica, Lonely Planet Publications, 2008, ABN 36005607983. Useful to master logistics at Peninsula de Osa.

• Michal Fogden, Marianne Taylor and Sheri L. Williamson, Hummingbirds, Ivy Press Limited, 2014, ISBN 978–1–78240–422–4. A fine book to digest the seven new hummingbirds we encountered.

• Harold F. Greeney, Antpitta and Gnateaters, Helm Identification Guides, 2018, ISBN 978–1–4729–1964–9. Great new book on these two difficult families, helped us to digest our wonderful views of Streak–chested Antpitta.

• Eldert Groenewoud, Trip Report Costa Rica, February 19th – March 5th 2006.

• Remco Hofland, Costa Rica, 7 – 30 Dec 2015. Very informative with an impressive list of species.

• Claus König, Friedhelm Weick and Jan–Hendrik Becking, Owls, a Guide to the Owls of the World, Pica Press, 1999, ISBN 90–74345–19–0. Helped to shed light upon the striking red morph of a Ferruginous Pygmy–Owl in Tarcoles.

• Dick Meijer, Pacifische kant Costa Rica en La Selva/Braulio Carrillo, 4 augustus tot en met 19 augustus 1991 (in Dutch).

• Birgit Mulder (Marco Polo), Costa Rica, Van Reemst Uitgeverij (in Dutch), 2008, ISBN 978–90–475–0482–5. Could help you to make your itinerary in Costa Rica.

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to Peter van Scheepen and Kees Verburg for their remarks after proof reading an earlier version of this trip report. We thank Bert de Jong for his info on Rio Tarcoles boat trips and birding in San Gerardo de Dota. I thank my wife Inge again for her marvelous photographs.

Dick Meijer, [email protected]

Systematic list of birds

E = Endemic to Costa Rica; NE = Endemic to Costa Rica and Western Panama; I = Introduced; Taxonomy and order follow Clements 2018.

Great Tinamou (Tinamus major)

Heard at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 3 August, in Santa Elena reserve on 4 August, 1 seen in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August, heard in Carara National Park on 7 August and at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 2 seen very well near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Little Tinamou (Crypturellus soui)

2 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 10 August, heard near Rincon bridge on 11 August and 1 seen at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Slaty–breasted Tinamou (Crypturellus boucardi)

2 seen at Rio Station trail at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August.

Black–bellied Whistling–Duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis)

12 seen at Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 2 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August, 3 on the pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 4 near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Gray–headed Chachalaca (Ortalis cinereiceps)

Up to 5 seen at Rancho Naturalista and up to 10 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge daily.

Crested Guan (Penelope purpurascens)

Up to 6 seen at La Selva daily, 2 at Arenal, 2 at Esquinas lodge and heard at Jungla del Jaguar.

Crested Guan, La Selva Biological Station.

Black Guan (Chamaepetes unicolor) NE

2 seen at Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 1 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August.

Black Guan (left–hand bird), Santa Elena and Great Curassow, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

Great Curassow (Crax rubra)

1 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal 2 at Esquinas Rainforest

lodge on 9 and 10 August and 3 at Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Buffy–crowned Wood–Partridge (Dendortryx leucophrys)

A single seen crossing a trail by Inge in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August may have been this species.

Pale–vented Pigeon (Patagioenas cayennensis)

1 heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Band–tailed Pigeon (Patagioenas fasciata)

A single seen at Robledal trail, below Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August.

Short–billed Pigeon (Patagioenas nigrirostris)

Up to 100 seen and heard daily.

Inca Dove (Columbina inca)

1 seen at San José on 29 July and up to 15 around Manuel Antonio and Carara on 6, 7 and 8 August.

Common Ground–Dove (Columbina passerina)

1 seen below Rancho Naturalista on 31 July and 2 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August.

Ruddy Ground–Dove (Columbina talpacoti)

Up to 20 seen in the lowlands on 10 dates.

Blue Ground–Dove (Claravis pretiosa)

1 heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 30 and 10 seen at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 and 12 August.

Blue Ground–Dove, Bosque del Rio Tigre.

White–tipped Dove (Leptotila verreauxi)

Up to 15 seen on 8 dates, often remarkably tame.

White–tipped Dove, Rancho Naturalista.

Gray–chested Dove (Leptotila cassinii)

2 seen and more heard at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 1 seen there on 3 August and 1 heard on 4 August and 1 seen and heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

White–winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica)

5 seen at San José on 29 July and up to 20 around Carara on 6, 7 and 8 August.

Smooth–billed Ani (Crotophaga ani)

3 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9, 10 and 11 August, 1 at Sierpe on 14 August and more common en route to San José on 16 August.

Groove–billed Ani (Crotophaga sulcirostris)

6 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and 4 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August.

Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana)

1 seen beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August, 1 around Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and 1 near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Short–tailed Nighthawk (Lurocalis semitorquatus)

A single seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August.

Common Pauraque (Nyctidromus albicollis)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July and 2 August and 3 seen along access road to Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August.

White–collared Swift (Streptoprocne zonaris)

8 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 8 en route to Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August, 2 near Puerto Jiminez, Peninsula de Osa on 10 August, 12 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August, 20 near Sierpe on 4 August and 6 near Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August.

Costa Rican Swift (Chaetura fumosa) NE

5 seen above pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 4 above foothills of central highlands north of Sierpe on 14 August.

Gray–rumped Swift (Chaetura cinereiventris)

4 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 25 and 10 there on 2 and 3 August.

White–necked Jacobin (Florisuga mellivora)

Common at Rancho Naturalista on 29, 30 and 31 July.

White–necked Jacobin (left–hand bird) and , Rancho Naturalista.

Bronzy Hermit (Glaucis aeneus)

A single seen above Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Band–tailed Barbthroat (Threnetes ruckeri)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July and on 30 July and 1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 2 there on 10 August.

Green Hermit (Phaethornis guy)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, and 3 and 1 seen at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August.

Long–billed Hermit (Phaethornis longirostris)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2, 3 and 4 August, 2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and 4 and 2 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August.

Long–billed Hermit, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

Stripe–throated Hermit (Phaethornis striigularis)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July, 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July and 1 on 1 and 2 August, 6 at Carara National Park on 7 August, 5 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 there on 10 August and 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Brown Violetear (Colibri delphinae)

A single seen at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August.

Brown (left–hand bird) and Lesser Violetears, Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde.

Lesser Violetear (Colibri cyanotus)

At least 10 seen at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August and 15 at Mirador de Quetzales / Paraiso los Quetzales on 14 August, 4 at Mirador de Quetzales on 15 and 16 August and 20 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Green–breasted Mango (Anthracothorax prevostii)

3 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29, 30 and 31 July.

Green Thorntail (Discosura conversii)

Singles seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July and at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August.

Black–crested Coquette (Lophornis helenae)

A single seen in garden of Wayne Easley, Rancho Naturalista on 30 July.

Green–crowned Brilliant (Heliodoxa jacula)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July, 1 in Santa Elena reserve and at least 15 at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August.

admirable Hummingbird (Eugenes spectabilis)

12 seen at Mirador de Quetzales / Paraiso los Quetzales on 14 and 15 August, 10 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August and 5 at Robledal trail on 16 August.

Fiery–throated Hummingbird (Panterpe insignis) NE

7 seen around Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August and 3 there on 15 August.

Purple–throated Mountain–gem (Lampornis calolaemus) NE

1 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 5 at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August.

Purple–throated Mountain–gem (left–hand bird), Hummingbird Gallery Monteverde

and Volcano Hummingbird , Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota.

White–throated Mountain–gem (Lampornis castaneoventris) NE

2 seen at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Volcano Hummingbird (Selasphorus flammula) NE

2 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14, 15 and 16 August and 3 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Scintillant Hummingbird (Selasphorus scintilla) NE


Garden Emerald (Chlorostilbon assimilis) NE

A single seen in garden Wayne Easly, Rancho Naturalista on 30 July.

Violet–headed Hummingbird (Klais guimeti)

Singles seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29, 30 and 31 July and at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August.

Scaly–breasted Hummingbird (Phaeochroa cuvierii)

1 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 11 August and 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Violet Sabrewing (Campylopterus hemileucurus)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista daily, 1 on nest in Santa Elena reserve and at least 6 at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August.

Crowned Woodnymph (Thalurania colombica)

5 seen at Rancho Naturalista daily, 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 2 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 3 and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August.

Stripe–tailed Hummingbird (Euphenisa eximia)

5 seen at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August and 2 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Stripe–tailed Hummingbird, Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota.

Coppery–headed Emerald (Elvira cupreiceps) E

5 seen at Hummingbird Gallery, Monteverde on 5 and 6 August.

Snowcap (Microchera albocoronata)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July, 5 and 4 there on 30 and 31 July. Three different plumages seen very well. Bird of the trip!

Snowcap (left–hand bird), Rancho Naturalista and Coppery–headed Emerald, Hummingbird Gallery,Monteverde.

Blue–chested Hummingbird (Amazilia amabilis)


Charming Hummingbird (Amazilia decora) NE

6 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, 3 there on 10 and 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Mangrove Hummingbird (Amazilia boucardi) E

2 seen in mangroves of Playa Sandalo, Peninsula de Osa on 11 August.

Rufous–tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacati)

6 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 and 30 July, up to 4 at La Selva Biological Station on 2, 3 and 4 August, 4 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 there on 10 August, 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August and 1 heard there on 12 August.

Cinnamon Hummingbird (Amazilia rutila)

2 seen at Cerro lodge on 6 August and 2 and 1 there on 7 and 8 August.

Gray–cowled Wood–Rail (Aramides cajaneus)

3 seen beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August and up to 5 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9, 10 and 11 August.

Purple Gallinule (Porphyrio martinicus)

3 seen around small pool near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

White–throated Crake (Laterallus albigularis)

A single seen in small ditch in valley below Rancho Naturalista on 30 July.

Double–stiped Thick–knee (Burhinus bistriatus)

A single seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus)

2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

Northern Jacana (Jacana spinosa)

3 seen beyond Cerro lodge on 3 August and 2 in wet pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus)

2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and 1 near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla)


Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularius)

6 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and up to 5 along coast of Corcovado National Park on 12, 13 and 14 August.

Willet (Tringa semipalmata)

A single seen at Playa Sandalo, Peninsula de Osa on 11 August.

Brown Noddy (Anous stolidus)

10 seen near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Bridled Tern (Onychoprion anaethetus)

3 seen at Drake Bay, Peninsula de Osa on 12 and 14 August.

Sandwich Tern (Thalasseus sandvicensis)

3 and 1 seen at Drake Bay, Peninsula de Osa on 13 and 14 August.

Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias)

A single seen along Rio Reventazon, Silent Mountain on 31 July.

Sunbittern, Rio Reventazon, Silent Mountain.

Magnificent Frigatebird (Fregata magnificens)

Up to 4 seen along Pacific coast daily.

Brown Booby (Sula leucogaster)

At least 50 seen around Pantropical Spotted Dolphins and Humpback Whales at sea off Jungla del Jaguar on 11 August and 5 there on 13 August.

Anhinha (Anhinga anhinga)

A single seen en route to Monteverde on 4 August.

Neotropic Cormorant (Phalacrocorax brasilianus)

5 seen at Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis)

Up to 6 seen along Pacific coast daily.

Fasciated Tiger–Heron (Tigrisoma fasciatum)

A single seen along Rio Tigre on 10 August.

!

Fasciated Tiger–Heron, Rio Tigre.

Bare–throated Tiger–Heron (Tigrisoma mexicanum)

1 seen at Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 1 in pastures beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August, 1 near Rincon bride on 11 August and 2 near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Bare–throated Tiger–Heron, Rincon bridge.

Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)


Great Egret (Ardea alba)

2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 1 en route to Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August and 2 in pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Snowy Egret (Egretta thula)


Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea)

8 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 1 en route to Esquinas Rainforest lodge, 2 in pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 there on 10 August and 1 en route to Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Tricolored Heron (Egretta tricolor)


Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis)

Up to 30 seen in the lowlands on most days. .

Green Heron (Butorides virescens)

2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 4 seen on pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, 1 near Rincon bridge on 11 August and 2 near Sierpe on 12 August.

Yellow–crowned Night–Heron (Nyctanassa violacea)


Boat–billed Heron (Cochlearius cochlearius)2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and 1 near Dos Brazos, Rio Tigre on 11 August.

Boat–billed Heron, Dos Brazos, Bosque del Rio Tigre.

White Ibis (Eudocimus albus)

7 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 2 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August, 5 in pastures near Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, 4 en route to Rincon bridge on 11 August and 2 near Sierpe on 14 August.

White Ibis, near Rincon bridge.

Green Ibis (Mesembrinibus cayennensis)

2 seen near La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 3 August.

Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea ajaja)


King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa)

2 seen at Arenal on 4 August.

Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus)

Common throughout.

Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)

Common throughout, but less numerous than Black Vulture; though around Golfo Dulce and on Peninsula de Osa Turkey Vulture was more numerous than Black Vulture.

White–tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus)

A single seen near San José on 29 July.

Hook–billed Kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus)

Singles seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 3 August.

Swallow–tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus)

4 seen at Areal on 4 August, 1 at Monteverde on 6 and 7 August, 1 en route to Esquinas Rainforest loge on 8 August and 1 near Sierpe on 10 August.

Double–toothed Kite (Harpagus bidentatus)

Singles seen near Rincon bridge on 11 August and near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Common Black Hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus)

1 seen at Cerro lodge on 6 and 8 August, 3 in Carara National Park and 3 along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 4 around Serena, Corcovado National park and 1 near Sierpe on 14 August.

Barred Hawk (Morphnarcus princeps)

A single seen in valley below Rancho Naturalista on 31 July.

Roadside Hawk (Rupornis magnirostris)

Up to 3 seen on seven days.

Semiplumbeous Hawk (Leucopternis semiplumbeous)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August.

Short–tailed Hawk (Buteo brachyurus)

A single seen at Rancho Naturalista on 31 July.

Zone–tailed Hawk (Buteo albonotaus)

A single seen in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Tropical Screech–Owl (Megascops choliba)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July.

Crested Owl (Lophostrix cristata)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 2 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Crested Owl, Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal.

Ferruginous Pygmy–Owl (Glaucidium brasilianum)

A single red morph seen at Tarcoles on 7 August.

Mottled Owl (Cicabba virgata)

2 seen in Santa Elena during night walk on 5 August.

Mottled Owl, Santa Elena.

Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachus mocinno)

8 and 2 seen at Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales on 15 and 2 and

1 seen at view point Los Felos, San Gerardo de Dota on 16 August.

Resplendent Quetzal, Los Felos, San Gerado de Dota.

Slaty–tailed Trogon (Trogon massena)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August, 1 heard at Carara on 7 August and 1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Black–headed Trogon (Trogon melanocephalus)

2 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August and 3 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Baird's Trogon (Trogon bairdii) NE

1 seen and more heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 2 seen there on 10 August.

Gartered Trogon (Trogon caligatus)

Singles seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29, 30 and 31 July and at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August.

Black–throated Trogon (Trogon rufus)

1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 10 August and 3 near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

!

Black–throated Trogon , Serena, Corcovado National Park.

Orange–bellied Trogon (Trogon aurantiiventris) NE

1 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 1 in Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August.

Collared Trogon (Trogon collaris)


Lesson's Motmot (Momotus lessonii)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 and 30 July, 1 in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August, 2 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August, 1 heard at Esquina lodge on 9 August and 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Rufous Motmot (Baryphthengus martii)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 31 July and 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 2, 3 and 4 August.

Rufous Motmot, La Selva Biological Station.

Broad–billed Motmot (Electron platyrhynchum)

A single seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 1 heard there on 2 August.

Ringed Kingfisher (Megaceryle torquata)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July, 1 seen near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August and 1 near Sierpe on 14 August.

Amazon Kingfisher (Chloreceryle amazona)

Singles seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Green Kingfisher (Chloroceryle americana)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July, 2 there on 1 August and 1 on 2 August, 5 along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and 1 or 2 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge daily.

White–necked Puffbird (Notharchus hyperrhynchus)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 2 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August and 1 seen near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

White–whiskered Puffbird (Malacoptila panamensis)

A single seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August and 1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Rufous–tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 1 in Carara National Park on 7 August, 1 heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 seen at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Prong–billed Barbet (Semnornis frantzii) NE

A single seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August.

Northern Emerald–Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus prasinus)


Collared Aracari (Pteroglossus torquatus)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 15 at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 30 and 10 there on 2 and 3 August and 8 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Fiery–billed Aracari (Pteroglossus frantzii)

2 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and 4 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Yellow–throated Toucan (Ramphastos ambiguus)

Up to 10 seen at La Selva Biological Station daily, 1 in Carara National Park on 7 August, 3, 4 and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9, 10 and 11 August and heard at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 and 13 August.

!

Yellow–throated Toucan, La Selva Biological Station.

Keel–billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulphuratus)

10 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 3 there on 31 July, 1 and 2 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 3 August and 2 in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August.

Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus)

At least 3 seen at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Acorn Woodpecker, Datsu, San Gerardo de Dota.

Golden–naped Woodpecker (Melanerpes chrysauchen) NE

1 seen and more heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, 1 there on 10 August and 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Black–cheeked Woodpecker (Melanerpes pucherani)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July and 1 heard there 30 July, 1, 2 and 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1, 2 and 3 August and 1 heard in the Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Red–crowned Woodpecker (Melanerpes rubricapiilus)

Singles seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and en route to Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Hoffmann's Woodpecker (Melanerpes hoffmannii)

1 seen in garden Apartamento Artesana on 4 August and 2 at Cerro lodge on 7 and 8 August.

Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus)

1 heard in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and a single seen along Robledal trail, Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Smoky–brown Woodpecker (Picoides fumigatus)

A single seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Red–rumped Woodpecker (Veniliornis kirkii)

A single seen at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Pale–billed Woodpecker (Campephilus guatemalensis)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August and 2 in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Pale billed Woodpecker, La Selva Biological Station.

Lineated Woodpecker (Dryocopus lineatus)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 and 31 July, 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Chestnut–colored Woodpecker (Celeus castaneus)

3 and 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 3 August.

Chestnut–colored Woodpecker, La Selva Biological Station.

Rufous–winged Woodpecker (Piculus simplex)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August, 1 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Collared Forest–Falcon (Micrastur semitorquatus)

Heard at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, in Carara National Park on 7 August and at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Crested Caracara (Caracara cheriway)

2 seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 2 at Dos Brazos on 10 and 11 August and 1 near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Yellow–headed Caracara (Caracara chimachima)

1 seen at Cerro lodge on 6 August and 6 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August, 2 en route to Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August, 1 near Rincon bridge on 11 August, 2 en route to Sierpe on 12 August, 2 at Jungla del Jaguar on 13 August and 1 near Sierpe on 14 August.

Laughing Falcon (Herpetotheres cachinnans)

A single seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)

A single seen at Atlanta airport (USA) on 17 August.

Barred Parakeet (Bolborhynchus lineloa)

8 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August.

Orange–chinned Parakeet (Brotogeris jugularis)

4 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 29 July, 8 and 4 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 4 August, 15 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 and 10 August and 20 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Brown–hooded Parrot (Pyrelia haematotis)

Heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July.

White–crowned Parrot (Pionus senilis)

10 and 4 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 and 31 July, 4 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 4 near Sierpe on 14 August and 6 en route to San José on 16 August.

Red–lored Parrot (Amazona autumnalis)


Yellow–naped Parrot (Amazona auropalliata)

2 seen and more heard in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Mealy Parrot (Amazona farinosa)

Common at La Selva Biological Station, in Carara National Park, at Esquinas Rainforest lodge and at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

Sulphur–winged Parakeet (Phyrrhura hoffmanni) NE

6 seen at San José on 29 July, 6 at Rancho Naturalista on 31 July and 6 en route to Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August.

Olive–throated Parakeet (Eupsittula nana)

4 and 6 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August.

Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus)

6 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July and 2, 2 and 4 there on 1, 2 and 3 August.

Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao)

4 seen just out of La Selva Biological Station at Chocolate Tours counter on 3 August, 8 at Cerro lodge on 6 August, 12 along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 20 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August, 10 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 10 August, 40 at ridge above Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August, 4 at Jungla del Jaguar on 12 August and 2 near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Scarlet Macaw, Chocolate Tours counter, near La Selva Biological Station.

Crimson–fronted Parakeet (Psittacara finschi)

Several heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 6 seen there 31 July.

Fasciated Antshrike (Cymbilaimus lineatus)

Several heard at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August.

Great Antshrike (Taraba major)

2 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Barred Antshrike (Thamnophilus doliatus)

Several heard in Carara National Park on 7 August and at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August.

Black–hooded Antshrike (Thamnophilus bridgesi) NE

Several heard in Carara National Park on 7 August, at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 10 August, 1 seen at Dos Brazos on 11 August, 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August and 2 seen very well near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Black–hooded Antshrike, Serena, Corcovado National Park.

Russet Antshrike (Thamnistes anabatinus)


Plain Antvireo (Dysithamnus mentalis)


Streak–crowned Antvireo (Dysithamnus striaticeps)


Checker–throated Antwren (Epinecrophylla fulviventris)


Slaty Antwren (Myrmotherula schisticolor)


Dot–winged Antwren (Microrhopias quixensis)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 10 August and 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Dusky Antbird (Cercomacroides tyrannina)

2 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Chestnut–backed Antbird (Poliocrania exsul)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 4 in Carara National Park on 7 August, heard at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 10, 11 and 12 August and near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Dull–mantled Antbird (Sipia laemosticta)

Singles seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Streak–chested Antpitta (Hylopezus perspicillatus)

A single seen very well in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Silvery–fronted Tapaculo (Scytalopus argentifrons) NE

Several heard in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August.

Black–faced Antthrush (Formicarius analis)

1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August, 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 seen very well there on 10 August.

Scaly–throated Leaftosser (Scelrurus rufigularis)

1 heard at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August and a single seen 'leaf tossing' there on 10 August.

Ruddy Woodcreeper (Dendrocincla homochroa)

3 seen in San Gerardo de Dota and 1 at Robledal trail, Midador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Tawny–winged Woodcreeper (Dendrocinlca anabatina)

1 heard at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Plain–brown Woodcreeper (Dendrocincla fuliginosa)

3 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 1, 2 and 3 August.

Wedge–billed Woodcreeper (Glyphorhynchus spirurus)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 2 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 4 August.

Cocoa Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus susurrans)

2 and 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August and 2 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Black–striped Woodcreeper (Xiphorhynchus lacrymosus)

A single seen near Dos Brazos on 11 August.

Streak–headed Woodcreper (Lepidocolaptes souleyetti)

2 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 1 in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August, 1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August, 2 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge and 1 seen near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Streak–headed Woodcreeper, Esquinas Rainforest Lodge.

Plain Xenops (Xenops minutus)


Lineated Foliage–gleaner (Syndactyla subalaris)


Streak–breasted Treehunter (Thripadectes rubobrunneus)


Buff–throated Foliage–gleaner (Automolus ochrolaemus)

1 seen and more heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, heard there on 31 July, heard in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, in Carara National Park on 7 August, at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Spotted Barbtail (Premnoplex brunnescens)


Ruddy Treerunner (Margarornis rubiginosus) NE

4 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August.

Red–faced Spinetail (Cranioleuca erythrops)

2 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 2 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August.

Torrent Tyrannulet (Serpophaga cinerea)

A single seen at Rio Reventazon, Silent Mountain on 30 July.

Olive–striped Flycatcher (Mionectes olivaceus)


Ochre–bellied Flycatcher (Mionectes oleagineus)

Singles seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Mistletoe Tyrannulet (Zimmerius parvus)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 1 heard and 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge and 1 seen at Dos Brazos on 11 August.

Scale–crested Pygmy–Tyrant (Lophotriccus pileatus)

A single seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 heard in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Northern Bentbill (Oncostoma cinereigulare)

A single seen in Carara National Park on 7 August and 2 heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Slate–headed Tody–Flycatcher (Poecilotriccus sylvia)

1 heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August.

Common Tody–Flycatcher (Todyrostrum cinereum)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 31 July, 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August.

Eye–ringed Flatbill (Rhynchocyclus brevirostris)

Singles seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and at Playa Sandalo on 11 August.

Yellow–olive Flycatcher (Tolmomyias sulphurescens)


Golden–crowned Spadebill (Platyrhinchus coronatus)

A single seen very well near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

White–throated Spadebill (Platyrinchus mystaceus)


Royal Flycatcher (Onychorhynchus coronatus)

1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Sulphur–rumped Flycatcher (Myiobius sulphureipygus)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 seen there on 31 July and 2 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 10 August.

Tawny–chested Flycatcher (Aphanotriccus capitalis)

1 heard and 1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 seen there on 31 July.

Tufted Flycatcher (Mitrephanes phaeocercus)


Dark Pewee (Contopus lugubris) NE

A single seen at Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August.

Tropical Pewee (Contopus cinereus)


White–throated Flycatcher (Empidonax albigularis)


Yellowish Flycatcher (Empidonax flavescens)


Yellowish Flycatcher, Santa Elena reserve.

Black–capped Flycatcher (Empidonax atriceps)

A single seen at Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August.

Black Phoebe (Sayornis nigricans)

2 seen at Rio Reventazon, Silent Mountain on 30 July.

Long–tailed Tyrant (Colonia colonus)


Bright–rumped Attila (Attila spadiceus)


Rufous Mourner (Rhytipterna holerythra)

A single seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Dusky–capped Flycatcher (Myiarchus tuberculifer)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Panama Flycatcher (Myiarchus panamensis)


Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulpuratus)

Common throughout.

Boat–billed Flycatcher (Megarhynchus pitangua)

Singles seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Rusty–margined Flycatcher (Myiozetetes cayanensis)

4 seen along access road to Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Social Flycatcher (Myiozetetes similis)

Common at Rancho Naturalista, La Selva Biological Station, Arenal, Carara and 2 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Gray–capped Flycatcher (Myiozetetes granadensis)

2 and 1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August.

White–ringed Flycatcher (Conopias albovittatus)

Singles seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 3 August.

Streaked Flycatcher (Myiodynastes maculates)

1 seen in Carara National Park on 7 August and 2 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 11 August.

Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus)

Common throughout in open areas.

Turquoise Cotinga (Cotinga ridgwayi) NE

1 seen at Dos Brazos and 1 at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Three–wattled Bellbird (Procnias tricarunculatus)

Several heard in garden of Apartemento Artesana, Santa Elena on 4 August.

Yellow–billed Cotinga (Carpodectes antoniae) NE

A single seen at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

White–ruffed Manakin (Corapipo altera)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 there on 31 July and 1 heard at Santa Elena reserve on 5 August.

White–collared Manakin (Manacus candei)

12 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 31 July and 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August.

Orange–collared Manakin (Manacus aurantiacus)

2 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, 1 and 1 there on 10 August and 1 heard on 11 August.

White–crowned Manakin (Dixiphia pipra)

3 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July.

Masked Tityra (Tityra semifasciata)

3 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August and 2 at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Masked Tityra, La Selva Biological Station.

Cinnamon Becard (Pachyramphus cinnamomeus)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 1 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 2 in Carara National Park on 7 August.

White–winged Becard (Pachyramphus polychopterus)

A single seen at Dos Brazos on 11 August.

Rose–throated Becard (Pachyramphus aglaiae)


Scrub Greenlet (Hylophilus flavipes)

1 heard at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Green Shrike–Vireo (Vireolanius pulchellus)

1 heard at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August.

Lesser Greenlet (Pachysylvia decurtata)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 4 seen in Carara National Park on 7 August and 1 heard at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Mangrove Vireo (Vireo pallens)

2 seen and more heard in mangroves along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

Mangrove Vireo, Rio Tarcoles, Carara.

Yellow–winged Vireo (Vireo carmioli) NE

A single seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Yellow–green Vireo (Vireo flavoviridis)


White–throated Magpie–Jay (Calocitta formosa)

2 seen in foothills below Monteverde on 4 August and 7 August.

Brown Jay (Psilorhinus morio)

Common at Rancho Naturalista, Santa Elena reserve and in Pacific lowlands.

Blue–and White Swallow (Pygochelidon cyanoleuca)

Common in the hills and mountains.

Southern Rough–winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 3 August, 15 and 5 at Arenal on 3 and 4 August, 10 along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 1 en route to Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August and 1 at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Gray–breasted Martin (Progne chalybea)

10 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 5 and 10 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 3 and 4 August and 25 at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Mangrove Swallow (Tachycineta albilinea)

30 seen on Rio Tarcoles on 7 August, 15 at Rincon bridge on 11 August and 10 near Sierpe on 12 and 14 August.

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)


Scaly–breasted Wren (Microcerculus marginatus)


House Wren (Troglodytes aedon)

Small numbers seen or heard throughout.

Ochraceous Wren (Troglodytes ochraceus) NE

A single seen at Robledal trail, Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Band–backed Wren (Campylorhynchus zonatus)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 2 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 1 at Cerro lodge on 6 August.

Rufous–naped Wren (Campylorhynchus rufinucha)

4 seen at San José on 29 July, 6 in Carara National Park on 7 August and 10 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August.

Rufous–naped Wren, Carara National Park.

Black–bellied Wren (Pheugopedius fasciatoventris) NE

Singles seen and more heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August.

Black–throated Wren (Pheugopedius atrogularis)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 1 seen and more heard there on 31 July and 1 August.

Rufous–and–white Wren (Thryophilus rufalbus)4 seen in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Stripe–breasted Wren (Cantorchilus thoracicus)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 1 heard and 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August and 1 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Cabanis's Wren (Cantorchilus modestus)

1 seen and several heard at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 2 seen in Mistcico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Riverside Wren (Cantorchilus semibadius) NE

1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August, 1 seen and more heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 2 there on 10 August, 1 seen at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 10 August and heard there on 11 August.

Bay Wren (Cantorchilus nigricapillus)

1 heard at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 1 heard at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July and 1 August, 1 seen there on 2 August and 1 heard in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

White–breasted Wood–Wren (Henicorhina leucosticta)

Up to 5 seen at Rancho Naturalista daily, 1 heard La Selva Biological Station and 1 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Gray–breasted Wood–Wren (Henicorhina leucophrys)

1 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August, 6 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August and 1 seen and more heard at Mirador de Quetzales on 14, 15 and 16 August.

Long–billed Gnatwren (Ramphocaenus melanurus)

1 heard at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 seen there on 31 July and 1 heard in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

White–lored Gnatcatcher (Polioptila albilorus)1 heard in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Tropical Gnatcatcher (Polioptila plumbea)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 2 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 10 August.

Black–billed Nightingale–Thrush (Catharus gracilirostris) NE

Common in San Gerardo de Dota and at Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Slaty–backed Nightingale–Thrush (Catharus fuscater)


Black–headed Nightingale–Thrush (Catharus mexicanus)


Black–headed Nightingale–Thrush, Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal.

Mountain Thrush (Turdus plebejus)

1 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August, 3 in Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August and 2 in Mirado de Quetzales on 16 August.

Clay–colored Thrush (Turdus grayi)

Common throughout, up to 10 daily.

Sooty Thrush (Turdus nigrescens) NE

2 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14, 15 and 16 August and 2 in San Gerardo de Dota on 14 August.

Tropical Mockingbird (Mimus gilvus)

A single seen at Sierpe on 14 August.

Black–and–yellow Silky–Flycatcher (Plainoptila melanoxantha) NE

2 seen at Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August and 3 at Robledal trail, Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Long–tailed Silky–Flycatcher (Ptilogenys caudatus) NE

2 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August, 5 seen at Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales on 15 August, 1 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August and 1 at Robledal trail on 16 August.

Golden–browed Chlorophonia (Chlorophonia callophrys) NE

A single seen at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Yellow–crowned Euphonia (Euphonia luteicapilla)


Yellow–throated Euphonia (Euphonia hirundinacea)

1 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August, 4 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 1 at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Elegant Euphonia (Euphonia elegantissima)


Spot–crowned Euphonia (Euphonia imitans) NE

4 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August and 2 there on 10 August and 2 at ridge above Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Spot–crowned Euphonia, above Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

Olive–backed Euphonia (Euphonia gouldi)

3 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 5, 2 and 2 at La Selva Biological Station on 1, 2 and 3 August.

Tawny–capped Euphonia (Euphonia anneae)

2 seen at Silent Mountain and 2 at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July.

Ashy–throated Chlorospingus (Chlorospingus canigularis)

A single seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July.

Sooty–capped Chlorospingus (Chlorospingus pileata) NE

2 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August, 1 there and 2 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August and 25 at Robledal trail, Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Common Chlorospingus (Chlorospingus flavopectes)

1 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 15 in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 4 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August.

Stripe–headed Sparrow (Peucaea ruficauda)

A single seen beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August.

Black–striped Sparrow (Arremon conirostris)

2 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 2 and 5 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and 2 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 and 12 August.

Orange–billed Sparrow (Arremon aurantiirostris)

Up to 10 at Rancho Naturalista, at La Selva Biological Station, in Carara National Park, at Esquinas Rainforest lodge and at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge daily.

Chestnut–capped Brushfinch (Arremon brunneinucha)

1 seen and more heard in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August, 1 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August and 2 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Rufous–collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis)

Common at higher elevations.

Large–footed Finch (Pezopetes capitalis) NE

2 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August and 1 at Robledal trail, Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Yellow–thighed Finch (Pselliophorus tibialis) NE

2 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August, 2 or 3 at Mirador de Quetzales daily and 2 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

White–naped Brushfinch (Atlapetes albinucha)


White–naped Brushfinch, Batsu, San Gerardo de

Dota.

Wrenthrush (Zeledonia coronata)

3 seen just below Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Eastern Meadowlark (Sturnella magna)

2 seen in valley below Rancho Naturalista on 29 July.

Chestnut–headed Oropendola (Psarocolius wagleri)

Up to 50 seen at Rancho Naturalista daily, 8 at La Selva Biological Station on 3 August and 1 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Chestnut–headed Oropendola, Rancho Naturalista.

Montezuma Oropendola (Psarocolius montezuma)

Up to 10 seen at Rancho Naturalista daily, heard at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 2 and 6 seen there on 2 and 3 August.

Scarlet-rumped Cacique (Cacicus uropygialis)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August, 1 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 4 and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and 2 at Bosque del Rio Tigre on 11 August.

Red–winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)


Bronzed Cowbird (Molothrus aeneus)

7 seen in Monteverde and Santa Elena on 8 August.

Melodious Blackbird (Dives dives)

1 heard at Silent Mountain on 31 July.

Great–tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus)

Common throughout.

Gray–crowned Yellowthroat (Geothlypis poliocephala)


Masked Yellowthroat (Geothlypis aequinoctialis)


Olive–crowned Yellowthroat (Geothlypis semiflava)


American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)


Tropical Parula (Setophaga petiayumi)

1 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 1 at Robledal trail, Mirador de Quetzales on 16 August.

Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia)

Heard in Carara National Park and at least 10 seen in mangroves along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

Rufous–capped Warbler (Basileuterus rufifrons)


Golden–crowned Warbler (Basileuterus culicivorus)


Costa Rican Warbler (Basileuterus melanotus)


Buff–rumped Warbler (Myiothlypis fulvicaudatus)

Up to 3 seen in La Selva Biological Station daily, 2 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, heard in Carara National Park, 1 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and 1 near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Slate–throated Redstart (Myioborus miniatus)

1 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 4 in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 1 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserveon 6 August.

Collared Redstart (Myioborus torquatus) NE

4 seen in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 1 in Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve on 6 August, 2 in Trinity, below Mirador de Quetzales and 1 at Robledal trail on 16 August.

Flame–colored Tanager (Piranga bidentata)

At least 6 seen at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Red–throated Ant–Tanager (Habia fuscicauda)

6 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August.

Black–cheeked Ant–Tanager (Habia atrimaxillaris)

5 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August, heard there on 10 August and heard at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

Carmiol's Tanager (Chlorothraupis carmioli)


Black–faced Grosbeak (Caryothraustes poliogaster)


Blue–black Grosbeak (Cyanocompsa cyanoides)

2 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 and 10 August and 2 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Gray–headed Tanager (Eucemetis penicillata)

Heard in Carara National Park on 7 August, 1 seen near Rincon bridge on 11 August an 1 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 12 August.

White–shouldered Tanager (Tachyphonus lucyuosus)

2 seen in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, heard in Carara National Park on 7 August and 2 seen at Dos Brazos on 11 August.

White–lined Tanager (Tachyphonus rufus)

2 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 8 at La Selva Biological Station and 2 beyond Cerro lodge on 8 August.

White–throated Shrike–Tanager (Lanio leucothorax)


Scarlet-rumped Tanager (Ramphocelus passerinii)

Common in Rancho Naturalista, La Selva Biological Station and Arenal (passerinii) and in Esquinas Rainforest lodge, Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge and Jungla del Jaguar (costaricensis).

Blue–gray Tanager (Thraupis episcopus)

Up to 4 seen almost daily.

Blue–gray Tanager, Batsu, San Gerado de Dota.

Palm Tanager (Thraupis palmarum)

5 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 6 in Carara National Park on 7 August and 2 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 11 August.

Golden–hooded Tanager (Tangara larvata)

1 seen in Rancho Naturalista daily, 1 or 2 at La Selva Biological Station daily and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Spangle–cheeked Tanager (Tangara dowii) NE


Plain–colored Tanager (Tangara inornata)

4 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 January and 6 at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August.

Rufous–winged Tanager (Tangara lavinia)


Bay–headed Tanager (Tangara gyrola)

1 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 1 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August, 1 and 4 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 and 9 August.

Emerald Tanager (Tangara florida)

4 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July.

Silver–throated Tanager (Tangara icterocephala)

2 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July, 1 in Santa Elena reserve on 5 August and 6 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Silver-throated Tanager, Datsu, San Gerardo de Dota.

Scarlet–thighed Dacnis (Dacnis venusta)

2 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 August and 4 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Blue Dacnis (Dacnis cayana)

4 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 2 and 3 August and 2 at Dos Brazos on 11 August.

Shining Honeycreeper (Cyanerpes lucidus)


Green Honeycreeper (Chlorophanes spiza)

2 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July, 2 at La Selva Biological Station, 2 in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Black–and–yellow Tanager (Chrysothlypis chrysomelas)

2 seen at Silent Mountain on 31 July.

Slaty Flowerpiercer (Diglossa plumbea) NE

2 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14 and 15 August, 3 there on 16 August and 2 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Slaty Flowerpiercer, Mirador de Quetzales.

Slaty Finch (Haplospiza rustica)

1 and 1 seen at Mirador de Quetzales on 14 August.

Blue–black Grassquit (Volatinia jacarinia)

Common in open areas.

Thick–billed Seedfinch (Sporophila funerea)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 July and 4 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 9 August.

Thick–billed Seedfinch, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

Variable Seedeater (Sporophila corvina)

Common in open areas.

Yellow–bellied Seedeater (Sporophila nigricollis)


Bananaquit (Coereba flaveola)

Up to 10 seen on most days.

Yellow–faced Grassquit (Tiaris olivaceus)

4 and 10 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 and 31 July and 4 at Batsu, San Gerardo de Dota on 15 August.

Buff–throated Saltator (Saltator maximus)

Up to 5 seen at Rancho Naturalista, at La Selva Biological Station, in Arenal, at Esquinas Rainforest lodge and at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge daily.

Grayish Saltator (Saltator coerulescens)

2 seen at San José on 29 July.

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) I

3 seen in San José on 29 July.

Systematic list of mammals

Pantropical Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuata)

8 seen at sea off Jungla del Jaguar on 12 August.

Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeanliae)

5 seen at sea off Jungla del Jaguar on 12 August and 2 there on 13 and 14 August.

Humpback Whale, off Jungla del Jaguar, Corcovado National Park.

Tayra (Eira barbara)


Black–mantled Howler Monkey (Alouatta palliata)

12 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August, 10 and 8 there on 3 and 4 August and heard at Bosque del Rio Tigre and near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Geoffroy's Spider Monkey (Ateles geoffroyi)


Geoffrey’s Spider Monkey, Serena, Corcovado National Park.

White–faced Capuchin Monkey (Cebus capucinus)


Central American Squirrel Monkey


Northern Tamandua (Tamandua mexicana)


White–nosed Coati (Nasua narica)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 and 31 July, 15 at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 1 near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)

10, 6 and 1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July and 1 and 2 August. Surprisingly tame!

Collared Peccary, La Selva Biological Station.

Hoffmann's Two–toed Sloth (Chloepus hoffmanni)

1 seen in Santa Elena during a night walk and 2 near Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Central American Agouti (Dasyprocta punctata)

Up to 3 seen daily.

Central American Agouti, Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

Variegated Squirrel (Sciurus variegatoides)

1 seen at Rancho Naturalista on 30 and 31 July and 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August and 1 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August.

Red–tailed Squirrel (Sciurus granatensis)

1 or 2 seen at Rancho Naturalista daily, 1 at La Selva Biological Station on 31 July, 2 at Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 10 August, 1 at Jungla del Jaguar and 1 at Mirador de Quetzales 14 August.

Red–tailed Squirrel, Rancho Naturalista.

Lesser White–lined Fruit Bat (Vampyrops helleri)

6 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 2 August and 2 at Santa Elena on 5 August.

Greater White–lined Fruit Bat (Vampyrops spec.)

6 seen in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Round–eared Bat (Tonatia spec.)

9 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1, 2 and 3 August.

Greater Sac–winged Bat (Saceopteryx bilieata)

14 seen above bar in Esquinas Rainforest lodge daily.

Greater Sac–winged Bats, Esquinas Rainforest Lodge

Spiny Rat (Proechimys semispinosus)


Dusky Rice Rat (Oyzomys bolivaris)


Northern Raccoon (Procyon lotor)

1 heard around bungalow at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 7 August.

Baird's Tapir (Tapirus bairdii)

A single seen in dense cover near Serena, Corcovado National Park on 13 August.

Baird’s Tapir, Serena, Corcovado National Park.

List of other animals

Strawberry Poison–Dart Frog (Dendrobates pumilio)

Common in La Selva Biological Station.

Strawberry Poison–Dart Frog, La Selva Biological Station.

Green–and–black Poison–Dart Frog (Dendrobates auratus)

10 seen behind Chocolate Tours counter near Sarapiqui on 3 and a few in Carara on 7 August.

Green–and–black Poison–Dart

Frog, Sarapiqui.

Veragua Cross–banded Tree–Frog (Similisca sordida)

Heard at Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

Cane Toad (Rhinella marina)

Heard throughout.

Fitzinger’s Robber Frog (Craugastor fitzingeri)?

Possibly this species seen in Carara National Park on 7 August.

Possible Fitzinger’s Robber Frog, Carara National Park.

Orange–kneed Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi)

2 seen in Santa Elena during night walk on 5 August.

Orange–kneed Tarantula, Santa Elena.

Side–stripe Pit Viper (Bothriechis lateralis)

A single seen in Santa Elena during night walk on 5 August.

Side–stripe Pit Viper, Santa Elena.

Eye–lash Pit Viper (Bothriechis schlegeli)

A single seen in tree in Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal on 4 August.

Eye–lash Pit Viper, Mistico Hanging Bridges Park, Arenal.

Northern Cat–eyed Snake (Leptodeira septentrionalis)

A single seen in front of bungalow at Esquinas Rainforest lodge on 8 August.

!

Northern Cat–eyed Snake, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

Neotropical Racer (Mastigodryas melanolmus)


Boa Constrictor (Boa constrictor)

A single seen at Rincon bridge on 11 August.

Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)

3 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 and 3 August and 5 along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

Common Basilisk (Basiliscus basiliscus)

1 seen at La Selva Biological Station on 1 August, 2 seen in Carara National Park and 1 along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August and up to 6 at Esquinas Rainforest lodge daily.

Common Basilisk, Esquinas Rainforest lodge.

Brown Basilisk (Basilicus vittatus)

Seen in Esquinas Rainforest lodge and La Selva Biological Station.

Brown Basilisk, Esquinas Rainforest lodge

Red–headed Gecko (Gonatodes albogularis)

A single seen in Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge on 10 and 11 August.

Red-headed Gecko, in

Bosque del Rio Tigre lodge.

American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus)

At least 4 (some huge) seen along Rio Tarcoles on 7 August.

American Crocodile, Rio

Tarcoles

Spectacled Caiman (Caiman crocodilus)

3 seen at Esquinas Rainforest lodge daily.

Documents

Report of a bird watching trip to Costa Rica · Explored the area beyond the lodge in early morning, drove to Manuel Antonio for a coffee and continued to Golfo Dulce. Golfito, Esquinas