Not just for the Birds
As many of you know Costa Rica is one of the best spots in the world for bird watching. Birders (pajareros) from all over the world visit the country every year to observe the country’s numerous species of birds. The sound of birds’ chirping, their colorful plumage, the uniqueness of the different native species and their behavior is what attracts foreigners.
Although the country is small, it has a huge number of species for its size. The official list of birds published by the the Asociación Ornitológica de Costa Rica (AOCR) contains 922 species spread out all over the country. That’s 10 percent of the world’s total avian population! To put that in perspective, Costa Rica is home to twice as many bird species as the U.S. and Canada combined – that’s double the species in a country 389 times smaller.
In fact, within two hours’ drive from the country’s capital, San Jose, one can see quetzals in highland forests, and other species in lowland forests, and in mangrove swamps. Some of the favorite areas for birding are Carara (Turrubares), Los Quetzales (Dota), Arenal (San Carlos), the areas around San José, Monteverde and Sarapiquí.
Now birding or the observation of birds in their natural habitats as a hobby, is becoming increasingly popular with Costa Ricans as well as retired expats. Every weekend local birdwatchers travel to different areas of the country to partake in this growing pastime.
I have serval expat friends who regularly enjoy going on birding trips to different areas of the county.
Birding is just one of the hundreds of interesting activities for those who more to Costa Rica.
Retired expat birdwatchers will be happy to know that there is a whole slew of books in English about Costa Rica’s indigenous bird species. “A Guide to the Birds of Costa Rica
