Costa Rica offers one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems that can be found on earth. The ecological and sensory experience found in Costa Rica cannot be rivaled anywhere else in the world. This unique country boasts majestic volcanoes, as well as sandy beaches alongside both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. As part of this diverse ecosystem, Costa Rica offers an expanse of native and tropical birds, which is what makes this country one of the most highly sought after tourist destinations for birdwatchers.
Within Costa Rica, there is one area in particular which draws birdwatchers like a hummingbird to nectar; the Central Pacific Coast. The Central Pacific Coast is home to a number of beaches, towns and national parks, which makes for a diverse ecosystem of both resident and migrating birds.
There have been more than 850 species of birds identified throughout Costa Rica, both migrant and resident. Within the Manuel Antonio region alone, more than 350 bird species can potentially be seen. Some of the most common bird cited in this region includes hummingbirds of various species, as well as a variety of euphonias, such as thick-billed, yellow-crowned, golden-hooded, blue-gray and scarlet-rumped euphonias.
Some of the more popular off-shore birds that are likely to be seen include up to 5 species of kingfishers, one of the most popular being the emerald amazon kingfisher, as well as brown pelicans. In the rainforest, birdwatchers are likely to spot Fiery-billed aracaris, chestnut mandibled toucans, lineated woodpeckers, red-capped manakins, barred woodcreepers, double-toothed kites, purple-crowned fairies, riverside wren and much more.
At any given time, early morning is the best recommended time to go birdwatching in Costa Rica. However, in order to see a wide variety of birds, the best time is the summer season, which is from December – April. If you are planning on taking a birdwatching tour in Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio region, then it is recommended that you hire a guide to help you identify the various bird species that you are likely to encounter. It is also recommended that you bring binoculars, and possibly even a high-powered digital camera if you intend to take any wildlife birdwatching photographs. In addition to this, there are also a few other essential items that you should be sure to bring along:
- Hiking shoes
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Bathing Suit & Beach Towel (optional depending on tour)
When taking a birding tour in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, you can expect to have an experienced and professional birding guide who can help you maximize the number of urgency. A professional birding guide knows the best spots for birdwatching and can also point out and name the birds. Birding guides who are Nature Specialists have extensive experience birdwatching and are taught to recognize different bird species by their eyes and ears. They are also capable of answering any questions that you may have while on your birding tour.
Most birding tours consist of small groups, so as to maximize the experience. Typically, birding groups consist of 2 to 6 people. When you stay with us at Manuel Antonio Rentals, we can also arrange private tours for you. Considering that it would be impossible to guarantee the sighting of a significant number of birds within a short timeframe, most birding tours last between half a day and a full day.
If you are considering a vacation to Costa Rica, then you should definitely add a birding tour to your visit’s itinerary. Nowhere else in the world can you experience such an amazing ecological environment, as well as the awesome wildlife observation opportunities that it offers.
Featuring some of the most impressive landscapes of the world, including several coves with many white sand beaches, Manuel Antonio attracts surfers, swimmers, birders, and ecotourists.
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