Birds have long been a source of fascination for people in the city of Fortuna. From the tiny hummingbirds that flit around the local gardens to the majestic bald eagles that soar above the coastal cliffs, birds have been a part of the city’s natural history for centuries.
Fortuna is home to various bird species, from the common ravens and crows to the rarer species, such as the peregrine falcon and the black phoebe.
Whether you’re an avid bird-watcher or a casual observer, there’s something special about the birds that inhabit this unique city. From their vibrant colors to their unique songs, the birds of Fortuna are sure to delight.
19 Birds to Watch in Fortuna
If you are a bird lover, you might want to visit Fortuna, Costa Rica, where you can find a variety of colorful and fascinating birds in different habitats.
Fortuna is located at the foothills of the Arenal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and offers a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Here are 19 birds that you can watch in Fortuna, and give you some tips on where and how to see them.
1. Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are small birds that are native to the Americas and belong to the family Trochilidae. They are found in many habitats, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, but are most abundant in Central and South America.
There are over 366 unique species and 113 genera of hummingbirds, meaning there is a significant amount of diversity within the family. Hummingbirds are known for their vibrant feathers, ability to hover in the air, and high-speed wing beat.
They are also renowned for their ability to migrate to different parts of the world to find food. Hummingbirds are important pollinators and play an essential role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
2. Toucans
Toucans are members of the Ramphastidae bird family, which can be found in the Neotropical region. This family is closely related to the American barbets living in the same area.
Toucans are instantly recognizable due to their brightly colored feathers and large, often colorful bills. The Ramphastidae family includes five genera, containing forty species of toucan.
These birds have adapted to their environment and developed an impressive array of colors and bills, allowing them to survive and thrive in the Neotropics.
Toucans are a fantastic example of the diversity of life in the Neotropical region, and their unique characteristics make them a fascinating species to study and observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Ramphastidae |
3. Rufous-Tailed Jacamar
The Rufous-tailed Jacamar is a unique type of bird that is native to the tropical regions of the New World. It is classified as a near-passerine bird, closely related to passerine birds, such as sparrows and finches.
It is found in many locations, including southern Mexico, Central America, South America, and even as far south as southern Brazil and Ecuador. These birds typically make their homes in dense tropical forests, building nests in trees and shrubs.
They are usually found near bodies of water, such as streams and rivers. They hunt for insects and other small creatures by perching in trees or hovering over the water. The Rufous-tailed Jacamar has a distinctive appearance, with reddish-brown plumage and a white underside.
Its long tail is tipped with a reddish-brown color, which gives it its name.
It also has a long, curved beak and a black mask around its eyes. The Rufous-tailed Jacamar is an integral part of the tropical ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations and can help to disperse seeds.
It is considered the least concerning on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, although its population is decreasing in some areas due to habitat loss. As such, it’s essential to ensure the bird can maintain its population in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Galbulidae |
| Genus | Galbula |
| Species | G. ruficauda |
4. King Vulture
The king vulture is a large bird that inhabits Central and South America. It belongs to the Cathartidae family of New World vultures. This bird species can be found in tropical lowland forests that stretch from southern Mexico to northern Argentina.
The king vulture is an apex predator in its environment, feeding primarily on carrion and occasionally small live animals. It is one of the larger vulture species, with a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters.
The king vulture has a striking black and white plumage, with yellow patches on the wings and a vibrant yellow head. This species plays a vital role in its environment by helping to keep it clean, as it feeds on carrion and dead animals.
By dropping carcasses from the air, they can also provide food for other animals, such as foxes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Cathartidae |
| Genus | Sarcoramphus |
| Species | S. papa |
5. Tanagers
The tanagers are a large family of birds belonging to the order Passeriformes. They are found in the Neotropical region and comprise a significant portion of the bird population there.
The Thraupidae family has an estimated 4% of all avian species and 12% of all Neotropical birds, making them the second-largest family.
Tanagers are found in various habitats, ranging from tropical forests to more arid areas like deserts, savannas, and grasslands. They are also known to inhabit urban areas. Their diet consists mainly of fruits, insects, and other small invertebrates.
Tanagers are usually quite colorful, with males being more brightly colored than females. They are also known for their loud, melodic songs, which they typically sing in the morning to attract mates.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Thraupidae |
6. Parrots
Parrots, also known as psittacines, are a species of bird that belongs to the order Psittaciformes. This order comprises four distinct families, with 410 species in 101 genera. The four families are Psittaculidae, Psittacidae, Cacatuoidea, and Strigopidae.
They are found mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by their brightly colored feathers, hooked bills, and curved claws. The Psittaculidae family is the most diverse, with over 300 species, including macaws, lorikeets, and parakeets.
This family is found in South America, Africa, and Australasia. The Psittacidae family comprises true parrots and is the second most diverse family, with over 140 species.
This family is most concentrated in South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The Cacatuoidea family includes cockatoos and is found in Australia and the islands of the South Pacific. This family is not very diverse, with only 21 species.
The Strigopidae family is found in New Zealand and comprises only three species. Parrots are intelligent birds and have been kept as pets for centuries. They mimic human speech; some species can even learn words and phrases.
In addition, they are social birds and require lots of interaction with their owners. Unfortunately, many parrot species are now endangered due to habitat destruction and illegal trapping.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Psittacopasserae |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
7. Collared Aracari
The collared aracari is a beautiful and exotic bird from the toucan family. It is a near-passerine bird, closely related to but not quite a passerine bird.
This species is native to Central and South America, ranging from Mexico to Colombia and Venezuela. It is a tropical bird, usually found in humid and warm forests at low to mid-elevations.
The collared aracari is a medium-sized toucan, typically measuring 12 and 14 inches long. Its most distinctive feature is its bright yellow and black collar, which stretches around the neck and is usually bordered by a white stripe.
Its bill is curved and predominantly black, with a bright yellow tip. The collared aracari has a primarily green body with a reddish-brown chest, head, and dark brown wings. This species is generally solitary but may gather up to 20 birds in flocks.
They feed mainly on fruit, insects, and lizards but will also take advantage of bird feeders if available. The collared aracari is an omnivorous bird that has adapted to various habitats, making it a successful species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Ramphastidae |
| Genus | Pteroglossus |
| Species | P. torquatus |
8. Crested Guan
The crested guan is a species of bird belonging to the family Cracidae, which is linked to the Australasian megapodes, also known as mound builders.
This bird species is native to the Neotropics, with its habitat encompassing lowland forests from Mexico and the Yucatán Peninsula to western Ecuador and southern Venezuela. This family of birds, Cracidae, is an ancient one, with fossils of these birds dating back to the Miocene epoch.
The crested guan is a medium-sized bird, usually measuring around 60 centimeters.
It is mainly black, with a patch of white at the base of its neck and a black crest of feathers. This bird species feeds on various fruits and seeds, as well as small invertebrates.
It is usually found in pairs or small groups and is generally seen foraging on the ground or in trees.
It is known to be quite vocal, with a range of calls that can be heard. From a conservation standpoint, the crested guan is of the minorest concern, and its population is stable.
Nevertheless, it is at risk from the destruction of its habitat and overhunting in some areas. As a result, the species is listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Penelope |
| Species | P. purpurascens |
9. Boat-Billed Heron
The boat-billed heron, commonly called the boatbill, is a unique species of heron. It is the only species of its genus Cochlearius and was formerly classified as a one-of-a-kind family known as the Cochleariidae.
This heron can be found in mangrove swamps from Mexico to South America in Peru and Brazil. This heron species is distinct from others due to its unique boat-shaped bill.
Its bill is its most recognizable feature and is quite large compared to other herons. It also has a large head with a crest of feathers on the top, a long neck, and a bulky body. The boatbill is usually a grayish-brown color with a white belly.
It is an omnivore and feeds on small fish, crabs, frogs, and other aquatic creatures. It is also known to eat fruits and seeds. The boat-billed heron is a wading bird and usually hunts in shallow waters.
A solitary bird is usually found alone, although it often congregates in larger groups during the breeding season.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Cochlearius |
| Species | C. cochlearius |
10. Great Green Macaw
The great green macaw is a type of parrot that is found in six different countries in Central and South America. It is also known by two other names, Buffon’s Macaw and the Tremendous Military Macaw.
This parrot is critically endangered, meaning it has an extremely high risk of extinction. Nicaragua, Honduras, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador are the countries where this parrot is found.
It is believed that the leading cause of its endangerment is the illegal pet trade, which has caused a drastic decline in its population over the years.
Habitat destruction and degradation due to human activities like logging, farming, and development contribute to its decline. The great green macaw is a giant bird measuring up to 90 cm long.
It has bright green feathers, blue wing feathers, and a yellow-orange forehead. Its tail feathers are red and yellow, giving it a distinctive look.
The beak is grey and curved, and its legs are also grey. The great green macaw is a social bird in small flocks of up to 20 birds. They feed mainly on nuts, fruits, and seeds, but they also eat insects and other small creatures.
They prefer to nest in large trees and build their nests in hollowed-out cavities or between branches. The great green macaw is an important species to conserve as it is essential to the ecosystem.
It is a seed disperser, helping to spread the seeds from different types of trees and plants. It also helps to control the population of insects, ensuring that they don’t become pests.
As such, conserving this species and its habitat is essential to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittacidae |
| Genus | Ara |
| Species | A. ambiguus |
11. Resplendent Quetzal
The resplendent quetzal is a beautiful, brightly-colored bird in southern Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the family of birds known as Trogonidae and is typically found in tropical forests, especially the montane cloud forests.
There are two subspecies of the resplendent quetzal – P. m. mocinno and P. m. costaricensis.The resplendent quetzal is a unique species that stands out for its beautiful plumage, characterized by a green head, bright red breast, and iridescent blue-green wings and tail.
It is a small bird, usually weighing 25 and 36 cm long. The quetzal’s diet consists mainly of fruits, insects, and arthropods. The resplendent quetzal is an important species for conservation.
It is seen as a symbol of freedom and national pride in many countries and an essential part of the ecosystem. Unfortunately, its population is declining due to deforestation and habitat loss. The species is currently listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List.
Conservation efforts are being made to protect and restore the quetzal’s natural habitat and educate people about the importance of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Trogoniformes |
| Family | Trogonidae |
| Genus | Pharomachrus |
| Species | P. mocinno |
12. Collared Trogon
The collared trogon is a species of bird belonging to the family of Trogonidae, which includes the quetzals and trogons. It is a near passerine bird, closely related to the passerines, the most diverse order of birds.
The collared trogon can be found in Mexico, Central America, and some parts of northern South America. This range makes it one of the region’s most widespread species of trogon.
The collared trogon is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring 30 to 35 cm long. It is easily identifiable by its bright yellow breast, distinctive white collar, and black face. The upper parts of its body are mainly blue-green, with a bright red belly.
The collared trogon is generally a solitary bird, preferring to remain in the treetops of humid forests and the edges of mangrove swamps. It is an omnivore, feeding on fruits, insects, small animals, and sometimes lizards.
The collared trogon typically nests in tree cavities, laying two to three eggs simultaneously. It is an essential species in dispersing seeds and other nutrients through its diet.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Trogoniformes |
| Family | Trogonidae |
| Genus | Trogon |
| Species | T. collaris |
13. White-Throated Magpie-Jay
The white-throated magpie-jay is a distinctive species of magpie-jay that is found in Central America. This species is found in the Pacific-slope thorn forest from Jalisco, Mexico, to Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Because these birds are so gregarious, they often travel in large flocks that are easy to spot. They may even form a mob, making loud calls and displaying aggressive behavior when observed. This behavior can be pretty intimidating to those unfamiliar with the species.
Magpie-jays are pretty social birds and are often seen playing and interacting with one another. They are also very vocal, making loud calls to communicate with other flock members.
This species is an integral part of the Central American ecosystem, and protecting and conserving their habitat is essential.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Calocitta |
| Species | C. formosa |
14. Trogon
The trogons and quetzals are two species of birds that belong to the same order, Trogoniformes. This order includes only one family, the Trogonidae, which is composed of 46 species spread across seven different genera.
Due to the presence of trogon fossils, scientists now know that this species has been living on Earth for at least 49 million years, making it one of the oldest bird species.
This places their origins in the Early Eocene, a geological epoch that began approximately 54 million years ago. Trogons are primarily found in tropical climates and are known for their bright colors and distinctive calls.
They are essential to the tropical ecosystem, as they feed on various insects, fruits, and nuts. On the other hand, Quetzals are found in the mountains of Central and South America and are known for their long, vibrant tail feathers.
They are considered a symbol of freedom and nature and an essential part of the food chain, as they feed on various small animals and fruits.
The trogons and quetzals are unique species that have been around for millions of years and are essential to the health of the tropical ecosystem. Their extended evolutionary history is a testament to their ability to adapt and survive in a changing environment.
Although the Trogoniformes order only contains one family, it is incredibly diverse and home to 46 species of birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Eucavitaves |
| Order | Trogoniformes |
| Family | Trogonidae |
15. Black-Crested Coquette
The black-crested coquette is a hummingbird species belonging to the “coquettes” tribe of the Lesbiinae subfamily. It has a distinctive black crest and is native to Central America, living in Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua.
This type of hummingbird is small in size and has iridescent green plumage.
It is similar to other species of the Lesbiini tribe, including the white-crested coquette, the green-crested coquette, and the blue-crested coquette. The black-crested coquette typically inhabits tropical forests and is most active during the day.
It feeds on nectar, which it obtains from a variety of flowers, as well as insects and spiders. It has a unique courtship display consisting of a series of zigzagging dives and high-pitched calls.
It is an elusive species, rarely seen in the wild, and its population numbers are thought to be in decline due to habitat destruction and human activities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Lophornis |
| Species | L. helenae |
16. Ornate Hawk-Eagle
The ornate hawk-eagle is a species of bird of prey from the tropical parts of the Americas. It is classified in the family Accipitridae, which includes all eagles. It is a relatively large bird and is sometimes referred to as the crested hawk-eagle.
This can create confusion, as the same name refers to a different species of eagle found in Asia. The ornate hawk-eagle has many identifying features, including a prominent crest of feathers at the top of the head.
It has a wingspan of up to 2.5 feet and is typically colored dark brown or grey with white or yellow markings. It feeds on small animals, such as mammals, reptiles, and birds, and is an essential predator in its ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Spizaetus |
| Species | S. ornatus |
17. Yellow-Eared Toucanet
The yellow-eared toucanet is a species of bird found in Central and South America. It belongs to the toucan family Ramphastidae, which is part of the larger group of birds known as near-passerines.
This species is native to various areas, ranging from Honduras in the north to Ecuador in the south. Its habitat is mainly tropical and subtropical moist montane forests in several mountain ranges.
The yellow-eared toucanet has a bright yellow ear patch, which helps to distinguish it from other species of toucans. It also has a distinctive black and white plumage pattern, with a red beak and legs.
This species is typically found in small flocks and feeds mainly on fruit. They are also known to eat small insects and other invertebrates occasionally.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Ramphastidae |
| Genus | Selenidera |
| Species | S. spectabilis |
18. Great Tinamou
The great tinamou is a type of bird belonging to the tinamou family, native to Central and South America. It is a ground bird, meaning it mainly resides near the ground instead of in trees or the air.
There are several different subspecies of the great tinamou, each with unique characteristics. The primary way to differentiate between the various subspecies is their coloration.
For example, some may have more browns and grays, while others may have more blacks and whites. Each subspecies also has a unique pattern on its feathers, which helps to differentiate them from one another.
These various colorations and patterns make the great tinamou a fascinating species in its natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Tinamiformes |
| Family | Tinamidae |
| Genus | Tinamus |
| Species | T. major |
19. Glossy Ibis
The glossy ibis is a water bird species included in the Pelecaniformes order and Threskiornithidae family. This bird species has a distinctive bill shape, so the scientific name for the glossy ibis is derived from Ancient Greek and Latin.
The terms “plegados” and “falcis” both mean “sickle”,” which is a curved blade or tool. This refers to the shape of the bill of the glossy ibis, which is curved and resembles a sickle.
The genus name of the glossy ibis is Plegadis, derived from the Greek term “pleads,” and the species name is Falcinellus, derived from the Latin term “faces.”
This indicates the glossy ibis’s adaptation and evolution, as its bill is specifically adapted to its environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Plegadis |
| Species | P. falcinellus |
Conclusion
Fortuna offers a diverse and captivating avian experience, boasting a rich array of 19 bird species worth observing. From the majestic Bald Eagle to the colorful Western Tanager, each bird adds its unique charm to Fortuna’s natural tapestry.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is truly enriching.
By immersing oneself in the beauty of Fortuna’s avian inhabitants, one gains not only a deeper appreciation for nature but also a profound connection to the intricate web of life that surrounds us. Happy birdwatching!