Birds of the Osa
The Osa Peninsula is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to an incredible variety of both common and rare species. With many endangered and threatened birds making their home in the region, it's an ecosystem worth preserving. Our guide provides an introduction to the birds of the Osa Peninsula, with stunning photographs and information on their habitats and behavior. Learn how you can help protect this beautiful and diverse ecosystem.
Black-throated Trogon
Trogon rufus
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This colorful little bird is known as the Amazonian black-throated trogon. This is a bird in the Trogonidae family which happens to be the same family as the exquisite Quetzals. This bird is about 25cm or 9.5inches long and can be a bit hard to spot as its shiny teal feathers tend to blend in with their leafy environment.
Conservation Status: Least concern (population decreasing)
Scarlet Macaw
Ara macao
The Scarlet Macaw is a fascinating bird that can live up to 60 years old and mates for life. There are estimated to be 1500-1800 of this magnificent bird in Costa Rica, with the vast majority of them living on the Osa Peninsula. Scarlet Macaws more often than not can be found out in the Almendro trees on the property by the beach, or burrowing into the large trees that line the main road from town.
Conservation status: Least concern*
*Although rated as a species of "least concern" by the IUCN, many believe that the Costa Rican population is threatened.
Yellow-Throated Toucan
Ramphastos swainsonii
This Toucan can be spotted out in palm trees enjoying their palm fruit. You can find this bird around the houses in Naturaleza Y Gracia if you listen for their unique sound.
The Yellow-throated toucan has a diet of fruit, insects, small lizards, and even other small eggs or birds.
Conservation status: Near Threatened (population decreasing)
Bare-throated tiger heron
tigrisoma mexicanum
This beautiful heron is commonly found near rivers and streams. Sometimes we see it hanging out over by the gathering deck here in Naturaleza Y Gracia. The bare-throated tiger heron is most notable for it's colorful tiger-like pattern to its feathers. They can reach up to 81 cm tall (32 in), with a wingspan of 115cm (45in).
Conservation status: Least concern