New Bird Species in Costa Rica
AUTHOR: Walter Sanchez, Professional Birder and Naturalist Guide, Local and Certified with ICT
The birdlife in Costa Rica is a dream come true for local and international birders from all over the world. The bird list of this country is well established, with over 926 bird species recorded so far up today for the country. The Osa Peninsula is home to about 375 birds, including several regional endemic birds that occur only in southern Costa Rica and part of Western Panama. This means that birding in the Osa Peninsula is exceptionally productive and variegated. Birders must carry their birding gear all the time if possible and be aware that rare bird species might be anywhere and show up randomly at any location.
A good example was when I spotted a rare bird in the garden next to our garage. As a true birder, I never leave my equipment too far from my hands; sometimes, this practice pays off more than I imagine.
Last October, while I was cleaning my car, I noticed a group of Scarlet-rumped Tanagers with a flock member that had a much more vibrant red color than the others of its kind. So, I quickly took my binoculars, spotting scope, and cell phone and did some filming and photos of this bird.
After researching, comparing, and analyzing photographic evidence from other similar bird species, distribution ranges, and similar birds, I realized that this particular bird was not reported on the official bird list of Costa Rica. I immediately shared the information in some major birding forums, chats, and social media groups for advanced birders.
The bird I saw was the Crimson-backed Tanager (Ramphocelus dimidiatus) and its distribution is in northern South America. I am adding some map screenshots with its distribution range taken from eBird.

After that, I got hundreds of texts, emails, and phone calls from birders from all over Costa Rica. Scientists, bird researchers, twitchers, photographers, and E-birders of all levels contacted me to arrange a visit to see this bird. Some of them were at the front gate around 5 am!
Professional birders and scientists from the Ornithology Union of Costa Rica also visited my home to observe this bird and add the official record to their bird list. The entire situation was a huge surprise because I unknowingly added a newly registered bird to the country. Lord, what a lucky birder I was!
Birdwatching is all about keeping your eyes and ears open at all times and expecting the unexpected. This rare sighting was a perfect example. The Crimson-backed tanager is now a new bird species for Costa Rica, and it’s exciting knowing I had something to do with this incredible discovery.

I have been leading birding-focused tours in Corcovado National Park, Drake Bay, and the Osa Peninsula for over a decade. The least I could imagine was finding a new bird record for Costa Rica in the Osa Peninsula.
Inquiries or bookings: walter@drakebaybirdwatching.com or info@drakebaybirdwatching.com.
What to do, Where to eat and Where to stay…
South Pacific Costa Rica Beaches
Looking for business directories, maps or other printouts? We’ve got that too!
Dare to Discover and Enjoy…
Check out…
Need help planning your next trip to Costa Rica? We look forward to help you!
Email: carlos@ballenatales.com
Phone: +(506) 8946 7134 or +(506) 8914 1568
Skype: ballenatalestravel

The Fishermen
The Fishermen Author: Karolina Magdalena Living in Dominicalito on the beach with fishermen has been so much different from living in Dominical or Uvita. Not speaking Spanish was no longer an option–my Tico neighbors insisted, […]

Le French Cafe
The French Cafe offers a great variety of classic French cuisine, like a croque monsieur or different tartes that can be eaten while having a glass of French wine in hand.

The Teslito Initiative
The Teslito Initiative Author: The GoFundMe Initiative Pepe Lopez is a young man who cares deeply about his community. It is immediately apparent that his heart beats for Dominicalito’s children and that he dedicates his […]

A fishing experience in Osa, THE BATTLE BETWEEN MAN AND TUNA!
Those who choose fishing as an antidote to heart attacks, obesity, depression, and even depression will live to be 100 years old.

HeaLynn Essentials
HeaLynn Essentials Author: Pura Bee Amor We, Carlos Guadamuz & Heather Sanden, are grateful to be a part of this Ballena Tales issue and to share our bee love with you! We do this through […]

Costa Ballena lifeguards program
Costa Ballena lifeguards program Author: Brad Dean Costa Rica has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. They are also some of the deadliest. Each year, on average, 50 people drown from the […]