Sunday September 10, 2023. 

The First Warbler Count in Costa Rica

While Costa Rica never experiences the autumn temperatures of North America, changes in weather patterns in the northern hemisphere notably impact our country. As cooler weather sweeps across North America, the jungles of Costa Rica burst to life with increased rainfall during the green season. This surge in plant growth attracts a diverse range of insects, creating an enticing environment for many species of migratory birds. These migratory birds flock to Costa Rica to feed and breed during the rainy season, offering a unique opportunity to observe species not typically found in Guanacaste, including warblers. 

Numerous warbler species from North America either spend their winter in Costa Rica or make a stopover as part of their migration to South America. Cerulean Warblers and Bay-breasted Warblers are highly sought-after species to observe during their visit. These warblers are considered at risk of becoming endangered, adding to their significance. However, the list of warblers making stopovers in Costa Rica is quite extensive, offering bird enthusiasts a wide array of opportunities for sightings. 

To promote this annual migration spectacle and gather essential data on the numbers of migrant warblers, local guides, and bird enthusiasts organized a nationwide warbler count yesterday. The inaugural Migratory Warbler Count of Costa Rica commenced early at 6:00 A.M., designed to encourage participation from the country's birding community and newcomers alike. This initiative seeks to contribute valuable information on the migratory patterns of warblers through citizen science. Numbers of sightings and species in the Guanacaste area will be released shortly. 

It's easy to spot birds from town's hiking trails, or even from your own balcony. Costa Rica is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting an impressive array of over 900 bird species, making it one of the world's most diverse countries for avian wildlife. With its varied ecosystems, Costa Rica offers bird enthusiasts endless opportunities to spot a wide variety of avian species. Consider using the e.Bird app or acquire a field guide of birds of Costa Rica to enhance your bird-watching experience here in the tropical dry forests of Las Catalinas.