Species List
We still have a long way to go in compiling a comprehensive species list for the Ranch and the surrounding area. Please let us know if you're interested in helping. Enjoy the articles and lists below. Please accept our apologies for spelling and other errors, and please let us know when you find a mistake so that we can correct it. As non scientists we are doing our best to keep this ongoing list maintained.
Following are some articles written about birding in our area.
For specific species list scroll down.
Guide Pat O'Donnell's Blog Post
Need Turquoise Cotinga near San Jose? Visit Rancho Mastatal!
All of us birders love cotingas. Along with the manakins, those weird, beautiful birds are the neotropical convergence answer to the birds of paradise, and like those Papuan feathered crazies, a lot of cotingas are brightly colored, make weird noises, have weird shapes, and would be proud, card carrying members of the feathered fancy fab club if there was such a thing. The only problem with cotingas is that several are kind of hard to see, especially the shiny blue ones. This is no fault of their own because they evolved to live in large areas of primary rainforest and not patches of forest in a hot, chiggery sea of cattle and grass.
Since they can’t live in pastures, some of these amazing birds have also declined and have even become endangered. In Costa Rica, the Yellow-billed is critically endangered, the Bare-necked Umbrellabird is endangered (and maybe on its way to being cricitally so), and the Turquoise is Vulnerable. Since there are few reliable sites for the Turquoise Cotinga, especially possible as an easy day trip from San Jose, it was a happy surprise to see this beauty at and near Rancho Mastatal the past weekend. I wondered if the species might be present but didn’t have high hopes because it’s usually rare and hard to find just about everywhere in the country (the exception being Luna Lodge and other sites in the Osa Peninsula). On our first morning of birding, my scope scanning of a forested ridge hit paydirt when the bright blue image of a male cotinga appeared, as per usual, right at the tip top of a tall tree. Luckily, it stayed long enough for everyone in our group to parse the distant blue bird out of the green background. We were pretty happy to see this tough species once so it was a surprise to get another one on the walk back to Rancho Mastatal! This other bird seemed far enough from the first to be a different individual and was seen perched high in the bare branches of a dead tree. We would have easily missed it if it hadn’t fluttered and revealed itself with one of the only sounds it makes, that of twittering, twinkling sounds made with the wings. After hearing that sound and catching some movement in the tree, it dawned on me that we had another cotinga! Even then, it wasn’t easy to find because most of the bird was obscured by a branch. Eventually, we positioned ourselves for more scoped views before it flew off into the forest.
There were no more cotingas that day but on the following morning, while watching the canopy near the goats at Rancho Mastatal (yes, goats, it’s a working organic farm), a bird flies into the top of a Ceiba and becomes another male cotinga in the binocs! More scope views, this time closer, to appreciate the gem-like colors before it flew away. This could have been the same male as the one in the dead tree on the previous day but when it comes down to it, we had three sightings of Turquoise Cotinga with rather little effort. I don’t know how big or small the population is at that site but even if you don’t find a fruiting tree, Rancho Mastatal lends itself to seeing this and other canopy birds because there is more than one excellent spot to view the canopy of the forest and tall trees ( including figs that could be amazing when fruiting), both on the grounds of Rancho Mastatal and along roads next to Cangreja National Park.
Other benefits of birding this area are:
• Not too far from the San Jose area: While it’s not a mere 40 minute drive, it probably takes around two hours or so along a curvy road that leaves from Ciudad Colon.
• Birding en route is alright: The first part of the road is awfully deforested but eventually passes through patches of nice habitat along with one area that might be the best site in the country for Costa Rican Brush Finch (we had 4 or more in an hour on the side of the road). This is the patch of habitat just after Salitrales.
• Birding at all hours: The national park sticks to the same 8 AM opening office hours as other parks but you can see most of the same species along a couple of quiet roads that pass by the edge of the park. We had the cotinga on one of those roads (main one between Mastatal and Salitrales).
• Several other humid forest birds: This area is more humid than accessible forests in Carara. Therefore, birds like Golden-naped Woodpecker, Baird’s Trogon, Fiery-billed Aracari, Black-bellied and Riverside Wrens, and Ruddy Quail Dove are fairly commn. As for Blue-crowned Manakin, that pretty bird is one of the most common species in the area!
• Lots of herps: Frogs seem to be more common here than other sites. The park should really be checked for possible populations of Harlequin Toads and other rare species.
• Rancho Mastatal: This very special place mostly focuses on giving hand-on courses to learn how to live more sustainably with our surroundings, especially in the tropics. They are actively doing this, work with the local community, and grow a huge variety of organic crops. I would describe the food as being “organic gourmet” and if you like all natural foods with creative recipes, you will love this place! Lodging is also offered and they have some nice trails.
If you need the cotinga and brush finch, and would like to bird an under-birded place with a lot of potential, take a trip to Rancho Mastatal and nearby. Even if you don’t stay at the Rancho, there is plenty of excellent birding at the edge of the national park, and can ask about using the Rancho Mastatal trails.
Tico Tweeter: The Newsletter of the Birding Club of Costa Rica
Vol. 20, No. 7
July, 2014
Trip to Rancho Mastatal
July 11-13, 2014
Without a doubt, maintaining the tropical forests of Costa Rica is in the interest of the Birding Club of Costa Rica. When visiting and birding the many trails around Rancho Mastatal on 11, 12, and 13 July, it was again brought home to us that without commitment, tropical rainforests will surely become more threatened.All 15 BCCR members and our terrific guide were invited to arrive before lunch so that the co-owner of Rancho Mastatal, Tim O’Hara, could talk with us about the mission and the programs at the site. Since the BCCR’s first trip there in 2008, there have been many additional programs directed at developing sustainable communities worldwide and to preserve the tropical rainforests. Although our members are experienced in basic accommodations, using compost toilets populated with dung beetles (great helpers in the composing process) took a minute to get used to, but, all did! We certainly have a greater appreciation of the dedication and commitment of those who work to provide a truly sustainable living experience for our mostly city dwelling members. In being situated alongside La Cangreja National Park, Rancho Mastatal offered many birding opportunities, including THREE sightings of the Turquoise Cotinga! From the footbol pitch we also got a good look at a Collared Forest-Falcon in hot pursuit of a retreating squirrel! The squirrel won but the Forest-Falcon gave us a good show. Along the way, we sighted poison dart and Brilliant frogs.Throughout the weekend, we birded the trails and roads each afternoon up until dusk, and then, of course, early in the morning, mid-morning and again in the afternoon. In between, we were served delicious vegetarian meals under the direction of Robin Nunes (co-owner and chef/planner), and her wonderful staff. For example we enjoyed a Katuk and Cranberry Hibiscus leaf salad—picked right from the garden along with interesting dishes prepared with pejibaye (have you had a pejibaye burger?) and jackfruit hash browns. Each noon meal was accompanied with a fermented fruit drink—cold and refreshing. Programs in permaculture are also featured at the Rancho. Three of our members, Gillian, Fred, and Pilar have a keen interest in permaculture and were treated to a tour and lecture by Rachel Jackson, an expert intern. Exploring the waterfall and swimming hole provided a super hike and relaxing ending for several of our group. However, the focus was on the birds, and with Tom Schultz clicking away on his super camera, the club’s Facebook page will soon bring trip sightings right into your computer screen. Once again, we were all in awe of Patrick’s ability to hear, see and sight for us, birds we would have walked past without an upward glance. Thanks to all who made the trip a real success!
---Janis Bolt
Participants: New Member Jody Winer, Sara Clark, Susan Blank, Janis Bolt, Penny Houghton, Ann Antkiw,
Pilar Saavedra, Phil Copeland, Danny Carranza, Lyn Statton, Fred Boden, Shelly Reeves, Tom Schultz,
Gillian Lewis and guide Patrick O’Donnell.
Bird list:
Seen- 94 Heard- 34
Great Blue Heron
Great Tinamou
Sunbittern
Little Tinamou
Black Vulture
Crested Guan
Turkey Vulture
Laughing Falcon
Gray Hawk
Gray-necked Wood Rail
Roadside Hawk
Gray-chested Dove
Collared Forest Falcon
Mealy Parrot
Yellow-headed Caracara
Squirrel Cuckoo
Red-billed Pigeon
Mottled Owl
Inca Dove
Spectacled Owl
Ruddy Ground Dove
Black and white Owl
Blue Ground Dove
Common Pauraque
White-tipped Dove
Rufous-tailed Jacamar
Ruddy Quail Dove
Buff-throated Foliage-gleaner
Scarlet Macaw
Long-tailed Woodcreeper
Red-fronted Parrot
Black-hooded Antshrike
White-crowned Parrot
Dot-winged Antwren
Brown-hooded Parrot
Dusky Antbird
Crimson-fronted Parakeet
Black-faced Antthrush
Orange-chinned Parakeet
Yellow Tyrannulet
Groove-billed Ani
Yellow-olive Flycatcher
Band-tailed Barbthroat
Greenish Elaenia
Long-billed Hermit
Ochre-bellied Flycatcher
Stripe-throated Hermit
Ruddy-tailed Flycatcher
Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
Northern Bentbill
White-necked Jacobin
Dusky-capped Flycatcher
Blue-throated Goldentail
Rufous Mourner
Charming Hummingbird
Red-capped Manakin
Steely-vented Hummingbird
Rufous-breasted Wren
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird
Scaly-breasted Wren
Purple-crowned Fairy
Long-billed Gnatwren
Gartered Trogon
Thick-billed Seed Finch
Black-throated Trogon
Orange-billed Sparrow
Slaty-tailed Trogon
Buff-throated Saltator
Baird's Trogon
Blue-crowned Motmot
Black-mandibled Toucan
Keel-billed Toucan
Fiery-billed Aracari
Golden-naped Woodpecker
Hoffmann's/Red-crowned Woodpecker
Lineated Woodpecker
Pale-billed Woodpecker
Plain Xenops
Streak-headed Woodcreeper
Cocoa Woodcreeper
Tawny-winged Woodcreeper
Northern Barred Woodcreeper
Barred Antshrike
Chestnut-backed Antbird
Southern Beardless Tyrannulet
Yellow-bellied Elaenia
Paltry Tyrannulet
Common Tody Flycatcher
Eye-ringed Flatbill
Great Kiskadee
Boat-billed Flycatcher
Gray-capped Flycatcher
Social Flycatcher
Streaked Flycatcher
Tropical Kingbird
Rufous Piha
White-winged Becard
Masked Tityra
Black-crowned Tityra
Turquoise Cotinga
Orange-collared Manakin
Blue-crowned Manakin
Lesser Greenlet
Tawny-crowned Greenlet
Brown Jay
Rufous-naped Wren
Riverside Wren
Black-bellied Wren
Plain Wren
House Wren
Tropical Gnatcatcher
Clay-colored Thrush
Bananaquit
White-shouldered Tanager
Golden-hooded Tanager
Blue-gray Tanager
Palm Tanager
Cherrie's Tanager
Blue Dacnis
Green Honeycreeper
Red-legged Honeycreeper
Shining Honeycreeper
Variable Seedeater
Melodious Blackbird
Great-tailed Grackle
Montezuma Oropendola
Yellow-crowned Euphonia
Spot-crowned Euphon
Tico Tweeter: the Newsletter of the Birding Club of Costa Rica.
March 8 - 9, 2008
(9.67935N, -84.37063W)
Gorgeous weather was our first indication that this would be an enjoyable outing. The setting of Rancho Mastatal, located on 550 acres of the last of the true virgin rain forest of Puriscal County, shares significant border area with La Cangreja National Park. Rancho Mastatal encompasses an impressive amount of walking trails where we spotted many more birds than we had hoped. There were a few early bird attendees who took advantage of a short walk around the grounds to spot some interesting birds, including a King Vulture. By noon, most had arrived and we enjoyed a delicious vegetarian lunch before starting on our afternoon trek. Our two well-experienced
guides, Henry Kantrowitz and Patrick O'Donnell, lead us to two separate areas of the property. Unexpected sightings of seldom-seen species included four different varieties of trogons, a Bay-headed Tanager, a Blue-crowned Manakin, and a view -in a single tree - of three species of honeycreepers along with a Blue Dacnis. Back at the lodge we enjoyed an evening of camaraderie, wine, and bocas and
a meal of a mouth-watering quiche and yucca patties. Several early Sunday morning excursions netted sightings of toucans,
araçaris, and a Double-toothed Kite. Bell birds were heard but did not make an appearance. The group that walked along the roadside entrance to Rancho Mastatal was rewarded with an exceptional number of sightings without having to trek far.
We reconvened for a hearty breakfast of fine vegetarian cuisine. The groups then traded guides and areas for the morning outing. The highlight of that walk was spotting an Ornate Hawk-Eagle. We also enjoyed a deep forest sighting of both a male and a female Red-capped Manakin. Near the river some birders in that group saw a Fasciated Tiger-Heron. A final gathering for lunch concluded the outing. Everyone agreed that the sustainable living and environmental learning center focus of Rancho Mastatal made for a most enjoyable excursion. We also extend a warm welcome Carol Marujo who decided this weekend to join BCCR as a member. Carol
authored the Tico Times article that garnered many people´s interest in visiting this area.
Bird list: (128 seen or heard)
Great Tinamou (H), Little Tinamou (H), Crested Guan, Fasciated Tiger-Heron, Green Heron, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture, King Vulture, Double-toothed Kite, Roadside Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Gray Hawk, Ornate Hawk-Eagle, Laughing Falcon, Pale-vented Pigeon, Red-billed Pigeon, Band-tailed Pigeon, Short-billed Pigeon, White-winged Dove, Ruddy Ground-Dove, Blue Ground-Dove,
White-tipped Dove, Ruddy Quail-Dove, Crimson-fronted Parakeet, Orange-chinned Parakeet, Brown-hooded Parrot, White-crowned Parrot, Red-lored Parrot, Squirrel Cuckoo (H), Groove-billed Ani, Mottled Owl, Common Pauraque (H), Common Potoo (H), White-collared Swift, Costa Rican Swift, Stripe-throated Hermit, White-necked Jacobin, Violet-crowned Woodnymph, Blue-throated goldentail, Charming Hummingbird, Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, Purple-crowned Fairy, Long-billed Starthroat, Baird's Trogon,
Violaceous Trogon, Black-throated Trogon, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Blue-crowned Motmot, Fiery-billed Aracari, Keel-billed Toucan, Chestnut-mandibled Toucan, Golden-naped Woodpecker, Slaty Spinetail (H), Plain Xenops, Tawny-winged Woodcreeper, Wedge-billed Woodcreeper, Cocoa Woodcreeper, Streak-headed Woodcreeper, Barred Antshrike (H), Black-hooded Antshrike (H),
Chestnut-backed Antbird, Yellow-crowned Tyrannulet, Yellow-bellied Elaenia, Ochre-bellied Flycatcher, Paltry Tyrannulet, Northern Bentbill, Yellow-olive Flycatcher, Tropical Pewee, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Yellowish Flycatcher, Bright-rumped Attila, Dusky-capped Flycatcher (H), Great Crested Flycatcher, Great Kiskadee, Boat-billed Flycatcher, Social Flycatcher, Gray-capped Flycatcher, Streaked Flycatcher, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, Piratic Flycatcher, Tropical Kingbird, Rufous Piha, White-winged Becard, Rose-throated Becard, Masked Tityra, Three-wattled Bellbird (H), Orange-collared Manakin, Blue-crowned Manakin, Red-capped Manakin, Philadelphia Vireo, Lesser Greenlet, Brown Jay, Blue-and-White Swallow, Rufous-naped Wren, Riverside Wren, Rufous-breasted Wren, House Wren, Scaly-breasted Wren, Long-billed Gnatwren (H), Tropical Gnatcatcher, Swainson's Thrush, Wood Thrush (H), Clay-colored Robin, Tennessee Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Summer Tanager, Western Tanager, Cherrie's Tanager, Blue-gray Tanager, Palm Tanager, Bay-headed Tanager, Golden-hooded tanager, Blue Dacnis, Green Honeycreeper,
Shining Honeycreeper, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Variable Seedeater, Yellow-faced Grassquit, Stripe-headed Sparrow, Buff-throated Saltator, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Great-tailed Grackle, Bronzed Cowbird, Baltimore Oriole, Montezuma Oropendola, Spot-crowned Euphonia.
Attendees:
Janet Peterson, Joel Bowers, Lisa Carnicom, Don Voelker, Janis Bolt, Dieter Holdt, Henry Espinoza, Nicole Sault, Carol Marujo, Johan Kuilder, Ineke van Leeuwen, Sara Clark, Paul Schmidt, Julie Jackson, James Lewis, Jordan & Beth Holtam and guides, Henry Kantrowitz and Patrick O'Donnell
BIRDS
The birding in this area is excellent. Please come pay us a visit and help out in adding to our extensive list. The list will surely grow throughout the year as seasonal migrants move in and out of the area. As this list shows, we have already recorded 13 orders, 41 families, and over 220 species! Rancho Mastatal lies along two major migratory routes, the Pacific Coast (running north and south) and the Caribbean (running east and west). We would like to send out a big heartfelt thanks to Deb Heiden for all her hard work in updating our list!
Order Tinamiformes
Family Tinamidae: Tinamous
Tinamus major (Great Tinamou―gallina de monte or gongolona)
Crypturellis soni (Little tinamou―Tinamu chico)
Crypturellis cinnamoneus (Thicket tinamou―Tinamu cando)
Crypturellis boucardi (Slaty-breasted tinamou―Tinamu pizarroso)
Order Ciconiiformes
Family Ardeidae: Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns
Tigrisoma fasciatum (Fasciated Tiger-Heron ― garza-tigre de rio)
Tigrisoma mexicanum (Bare-throated Tiger-Heron ― Tigre cuellinuda)
Casmerodius albus (Great Egret ― Garceta grande) Bubulcus ibis (Cattle Egret―garcilla bueyera)
Order Falconiformes
Family Accipitridae: Hawks, Kites, and Eagles
Harpyhaliaetus solitarius (Solitary Eagle―Aguila solitaria)
Elanoides forficatus (Swallow-tailed Kite―tijerilla)
Leucopternis albicollis (White Hawk―gavilán blanco)
Buteogallus anthracius (Common Black Hawk―Gavilan Cangrejero)
Buteogallus merdionalis (Savannah Hawk―Gavilan sabanero)
Buteo uitidus (Gray Hawk―Gavilan pollero)
Buteo maguirostris (Roadside hawk―Gavilan chapulinero) Buteo platypterus (Broad-winged
Hawk―gavilán aludo)
Family Cathartidae: New World Vultures
Cathartes aura (Turkey Vulture―Zopilote Cabecirrojo)
Coragyps atratus (Black Vulture―zopilote negro)
Family Falconidae: Falcons and Caracaras
Caracara cheriway (Crested Caracara―Caracara carahuesos)
Polyborus plancus (Crested Caracara―Caracara carahuesos)
Milvago chimachima (Yellow-headed Caracara―Caracara cabecigualdo)
Herpetotheres cachinnans (Laughing Falcon―guaco)
Order Galliformes
Family Cracidae: Currasows, Guans, and Chachalacas
Chacapetes unicolor (Black Guan―Pava negra or pava)
Penelope purpurascens (Crested Guan―pava crestada or pava)
Odontophorus gujanensis (Marbled Wood-Quail―codorniz carirroja)
Family Phasiandae: Pheasants, Quails, and Allies
Odontophorus gujanensis (Marbled Wood-quail ―Codorniz carirroja or Corcovado)
Order Gruciformes
Family Scolopacidae: Sandpipers and Allies
Actitis macularia (Spotted Sandpiper―Andarríos Maculado)
Order Columbiformes
Family Columbidae: Pigeons and Doves
Columba flavorostris Red-billed Pigeon ―Paloma piguirroja)
Columbina talpacoti Ruddy Ground-dove ―Tortolita rojiza)
Claravis pretiosa Blue Ground-dove ―Tortolita azulada)
Leptotila verreauxi (White-tipped Dove―paloma caliblanca)
Leptotila cassinii (Gray-chested Dove ―Paloma pechigris)
Patagioenas speciosa (Scaled Pigeon―paloma escamosa)
Order Psittaciformes
Family Psittacidae: Parrots
Ara macao (Scarlet Macaw Guacamayo Rojo―Lapa rojo)
Aratinga finschi (Crimson-fronted Parakeet―Perico Frentirrojo)
Pionus senilis (White-crowned Parrots―loro coronblanco)
Pyrrhura hoffmanni (Sulfur-winged Parakeet―Perico aliazufrado)
Brotogeris jugularis (Orange-chinned Parakeet―Periquito barbinaranja)
Pionopsitta haematotis (Brown-hooded Parrot―Loro Cabecipardo)
Pionus menstrus (Blue-headed Parrot―Loro Cabeciazul)
Amazona albifrons (White-fronted Parrot―Loro Frentiblanco)
Amazona farinosa (Mealy Parrot―Lora Verde)
Order Cuculiformes
Family Cuculidae: Cuckoos
Cuco artilla (Squirrel Cuckoo―cuco ardilla)
Crotophaga sulcirostris (Groove-billed Ani―Garrapatero Piguiestriado o Tijo)
Tapera naevia (Striped Cuckoo―Cucilla listado, Tres pesos)
Order Strigiformes
Family Tytonidae: Barn Owls
Tyto alba (Common Barn Owl ―Lechuza ratonera or estucurú)
Family Strigidae: Typical Owls
Lophostrix cristata (Crested Owl―buho penachudo or estucurú)
Pulsatrix perspicillata (Spectacled Owl―oropopo)
Glaucidium brasilianum (Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl―mochuelo común,Cuatro ojos)
Ciccaba virgata (Mottled Owl―Lechuza café)
Lopho strix crisata (Crested Owl―Buho penachudo, Estucuru)
Family Caprimulgidae: Nightjars
Nyctidromus albicollis (Common Pauraque―tapacaminos común)
Lurocalis semitorquantus (Short-tailed Nighthawk―Anapero colicorto)
Chordeiles acutipennis (Lesser Nighthawk―Anapero menor)
Order Apodiformes
Family Apodidae: Swifts
Cypseloides nigra (Black Swift―vencejo negro)
Streptoprocne zonaris (White-collared Swift―Vencejon, golondrón, collarejo)
Chaetura vauxi (Vaux’s Swift―Vencejo Comun o Grisaceo)
Panyptila cayennensis (Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift―Vencejo Tijereta menor, Macua)
Family Trochilidae: Hummingbirds
Phaethornis superciliosus (Long-tailed Hermit―ermitaño colilargo)
Amazilia tzacatl (Rufous-tailed Hummingbird)―amazilia rabirrufa)
Amazilia rutila (Cinammon Hummingbird―amazilia canela)
Heliomaster longirostris (Long-billed Starthroat―colibrí piquilargo)
Phaethornis longuemareus (Little Hermit―Ermitano Enano)
Doryfera ludoviciae (Green-fronted Lancebill―Pico de Lanza Frentiverde)
Florisuga mellivora (White-necked Jacobin―Jacobino Nubquiblanco)
Lophornis adorabilis (White-crested Coquette ―Coqueta Crestiblanca)
Chlorostilbon cantivetii (Fork-tailed Emerald ―Esmeralda Rabihorcada)
Amazilia decora (Beryl-crowned Hummingbird ―Amazilia Corona de Berilo)
Order Trogoniformes
Family Trogonidae: Trogons
Trogon bairdii (Baird's Trogon―trogón vientribermejo)
Trogon aurantiiventris (Orange-bellied Trogon―trogón vientrianaranjado)
Trogon rufus (Black-throated Trogon―trogón cabaciverde)
Trogon clathratus (Slaty-tailed Trogon―trogón coliplomizo o ojiblanco)
Trogon rufus (Black-throated Trogon―Trogon Cabeciverde)
Trogon violaceus (Violaceous Trogon―Trogon Violaceo)
Order Coraciiformes
Family Alcedinidae: Kingfishers
Ceryle torquata (Ringed Kingfisher―martín pescador collarejo)
Chloroceryle amazona (Amazon Kingfisher―martín Martin Pescador Amazonico)
Chloroceryle americana (Green Kingfisher―martín pescador verde)
Family Momotidae: Motmots
Momotus momota (Blue-crowned Motmot―Motmoto Comun, Pajaro Bobo)
Eumomota superciliosa (Turquoise-browed Motmot―Motmoto Cejiceleste, Pajaro Bobo)
Order Piciformes
Family Galbulidae: Jacamars
Galbula ruficauda (Rufous-tailed Jacamar―gorrión de montaña,Rabirrufo)
Family Ramphastidae: Barbets and Toucans
Eubucco bourcierii (Red-headed Barbet―barbudo cabecirrojo)
Pteroglossus torquatus (Collared Aracari―tucancillo collarejo)
Pteroglossus frantzii (Fiery-billed Aracari―tucancillo piquianaranjado, Cusingo or cusingo) Selenidera
spectabilis (Yellow-eared Toucanet― tucancillo orejamarillo)
Ramphastos swainsonii (Chestnut-mandibled Toucan―quiorio, Dios te-de, gran curre negro,Tucan de Swainson)
Ramphastos sulfuratus (Keel-billed Toucan―Tucan Pico Iris, Curre Negro)
Family Dendrocolaptidae: Woodcreepers
Dendrocincla fuliginosa (Plain-brown Woodcreeper―trepador pardo)
Glyphorhynchus spirurus (Wedge-billed Woodcreeper ―Trepadorcito Pico de Cuna)
Xiphorhynchus lachrymosus (Black-striped Woodcreeper―Trepador pinto)
Lepidocolaptes souleyetii ((Streak-headed Woodcreeper ―Trepador Cabecirrayado)
Campylorhamphus pusillus (Brown-billed Scythebill―Trepador Pico de Hoz)
Buff-throated Foliage Gleaner
Plain Xenops
Family Picidae: Woodpeckers
Picumnus olivaceus (Olivaceous Piculet―Carpintero Olivaceo, Telegrafista)
Melanerpes hoffmannii (Hoffmann’s Woodpecker―Carpintero de Hoffmann)
Melanerpes rubricapillus (Red-crowned Woodpecker―Carpintero Nuguirrojo)
Dryocopus lineatus (Lineated Woodpecker―Carpintero Lineato)
Campephilus guatemalensis (Pale-billed Woodpecker―Carpintero Picoplata)
Family Furnariidae: Ovenbirds
Synallaxis brachyura (Slaty Spinetail―Arquitecto Plomizo)
Family Formicariidae: Antbirds
Taraba major (Great Antshrike―Batara Grande)
Thamnophilus doliatus (Barred Antshrike―Batara Barreteado)
Dysithamnus mentalis (Streak-headed ―Antvireo Batarito pechirrayado)
Microrhopias quixensis (Dotted-winged Antwren―Hormiguerito Alipunteado)
Myrmeciza exsul (Chesnut-backed Antbird―Hormiguero Dorsicastano)
Family Tityridae: Tityras and Becards
Tityra semifasciata (Masked Tityra―tityra carirroja,Pajano chancho)
Tityra inquisitor (Black-crowned Tityra―tityra coroninegra)
Pachyramphus cinnamomeus (Cinnamon Becard―Cabezon canelo)
Pachyramphus albogriseus (Black-and-White Becard―Cabezon cejiblanco)
Pachyramphus aglaiae (Rose-throated Becard―Cabezon plomizo)
Family Cotingidae: Cotingas
Carpodectes antoniae (Yellow-billed Cotinga―cotinga piquiamarillo)
Procnias tricarunculauta (Three-wattled Bellbird―campanero tricarunculado)
Family Pipridae: Manakins
Manacus aurantiacus (Orange-collared Manakin―saltarín cuellinaranja)
Corapipo altera (White-ruffed Manakin―saltarín coroniblanco)
Pipra coronata (Blue-crowned Manakin―saltarín coroniceleste)
Pipra mentalis (Red-capped Manakin―saltarín cabecirrojo)
Corapipo leucorrhoa (White-collared Manakin―Saltarin gorgiblanco)
Manacus candei (White-collared Manakin―Saltarin cuelliblanco, Bailarin)
Family Tyrannidae: American or Tyrant Flycatchers
Onychorhynchus coronatus (Royal Flycatcher―mosquero real)
Empidonax flaviventris (Yellow-bellied Flycatcher―mosquerito vientriamarillo)
Empidonax minimus (Least Flycatcher―mosquerito chebec)
Pitangus sulphuratus (Great Kiskadee―Bienteveo grande, Pecho amarillo)
Megarhynchus pitangua (Boat-billed Flycatcher―mosqueron picudo)
Tyrannus melancholicus (Tropical Kingbird―Tirano tropical, Pecho amarillo)
Tyrannus verticalis (Western Kingbird ―Tirano occidental)
Myiarchus tyrannulus (Brown-crested Flycatcher―Copeton crestipardo)
Myiozetetes gradadensis (Gray-capped Flycatcher―Mosquero cabecigris)
Myiozetetes similis (Social Flycatcher―Mosquero cejiblanco)
Myiarchus crinitus (Great Crested flycatcher―Copeton viajero)
Myiarchus tuberculifer (Dusky-capped Flycatcher―Copeton borealis)
Contopus borealis (Olive-sided Flycatcher―Pibi boreal)
Contopus virens (Eastern Wood-Pewee―Pibi oriental)
Contopus cinereus (Tropical Pewee ―Pibi tropical)
Empidonax alnorum (Alder Flycatcher―Mosquerito de Chanal)
Myiobius sulphureipygius (Sulphur-rumped Flycatcher ―Mosquerito lomiamarillo)
Tolmomyias sulphurescens (Yellow-olive Flycatcher ―Piquiplano azufrado)
Rhynchocyclus brevirostris (Eye-ringed Flatbill ―Piquiplano de Anteojos)
Todirostrum nigriceps (Black-headed Tody-flycatcher ―Espatutilla cabeinegra)
Todirostrum cinereum (Common Tody-flycatcher ―Espatutilla comun)
Todirostrum sylvia (Slate-headed Tody flycatcher ―Espatutilla cabecigris)
Oncostoma cinereigulare (Northern Bentbill ―Piquitorcido norteno)
Capsiempis flaveola (Yellow Tyrannulet ―Mosquerito amarillo)
Serophaga cinerea (Torrent Tyrannulet ―Mosquerito guardanios)
Elaenia flavogaster (Yellow-bellied Elaenia ―Elainea copetona)
Camptostoma obsoletum (Southern Beardless Tyrannulet ―Mosquerito silbador)
Camptostoma imberbe (Northern Beardless Tyrannulet ―Mosquerito chillon)
Orinthion semiflavum (Yellow-bellied Tyrannulet ―Mosquerito cejiblanco)
Mionectes oleagineus (Ochre-bellied Flycatcher ―Mosquerito aceitunado)
Family Hirundindae: Swallows
Hirundo rustica (Barn Swallow―Golondrina Tijereta)
Family Corvidae: Crows,Jays, and Allies
Cyanocorax morio (Brown Jay―urraca parda or piapia)
Family Troglodytidae: Wrens
Thryothorus modestus (Plain Wren―soterrey chinchirigui)
Troglodytes aedon (House Wren―soterrey cucarachero, soterrey, zoterré or cucarachero)
Microcerculus philomela (Nightingale Wren―soterrey ruiseñor)
Campylorhynchus rufinucha (Rufous-naped Wren―Soterrey nuguirrufo, Chico piojo)
Thryothorus thoracicus (Strip-breasted Wren―Soterrey pechirrayado)
Thryothorus semibadius (Riverside Wren―Soterrey pechibarreteado)
Thryothorus maculipectus (Spotted-breasted Wren―Soterrey pechmoteado)
Family Turdidae: Thrushes, Robins Solitaires and Allies
Turdus grayi (Clay-colored Robin―Mirlo pardo, Yiguirro)
Turdus plebejus (Mountain Robin―Mirlo montanero, Yiguirro de Montana)
Catharus ustalatus (Swainson’s Thrush―( Zorzal de Swainson)
Catharus minimus (Gray-cheeked Thrush― ( Zorzal carigris)
Family Sylviidae: Gnatcatchers, Gnatwrens, and Old World Warblers
Polioptila plumbea (Tropical Gnatcatcher―perlita tropical)
Family Vireonidae: Vireos, Greenlets, Shrike-vireos, and Peppershrikes
Vireo flavifrons (Yellow-throated Vireo―Vireo pechiamarillo)
Vireo olivaeus (Red-eyed Vireo―Vireo ojirrojo)
Vireo philadelphicus (Philadelphia Vireo―Vireo amarillento tropical)
Vireo leucophyrs (Brown-capped Vireo―Vireo montanero)
Family Coerebidae: Bananaquit
Coereba flaveola (Bananaquit―Reinita mielara, Pinchaflor)
Family Parulidae: New World Warblers
Dendroica petechia (Yellow Warbler―reinita amarilla)
Vermivora peregrina (Tennesee Warbler―Reinita verdilla)
Vermivora celata (Orange-crowned Warbler―Reinita olivada)
Dendroica tigrina (Cape May Warbler―Reinita tigrina)
Dendroica pensylvanica (Chesnut-sided Warbler―Reinita de Costillas Castanas amarilla)
Seiurus noveboracensis (Northern Waterthrush―Reinita acuatica nortena, Tordo de Agua )
Oporornis formosus (Kentucky Warbler―Reinita cachetinegra)
Wilsonia pusilla (Wilson’s Warbler ―Reinita gorrinegra)
Wilsonia canadensis (Canada Warbler―Reinita pechirrayada)
Setophaga ruticilla (American Redstart ―Candelita nortena, Raya roja)
Phaeothylypis fulvicanda (Buff-rumped Warbler―Reinita guardaribera)
Family Icteridae: American Orioles and Blackbirds
Icterus galbula (Baltimore Oriole―bolsero norteño or cacicón or cacique veranero)
Cacicus uropygialis (Scarlet-rumped Cacique―cacique lomiescarlata,Plio)
Psarcolius montezuma (Montezuma Oropendula―Oropendula de Moctezuma)
Quiscalus mexicanus (Great-tailed Grackle―Clarinero o Zanate Grande)
Icterus g. galbula (Northern (Baltimore) Oriole―Bolsero norteno, Cacicon)
Icterus pustulatus (Streak-backed Oriole―Bolsero dorstillistado, Chorcha)
Family Thraupidae: Tanagers and Honeycreepers
Piranga flava (Hepatic Tanager―tangara bermeja)
Piranga rubra (Summer Tanager―Tangara veranera, Cardenal veranero)
Ramphocelus passerinii (Passerini's Tanager―tangara lomiescarlata)
Thraupis episcopus (Blue-gray Tanager― Tangara azuleja, Viuda)
Tangara gyrola (Bay-headed Tanager―tangara cabezicastana)
Dacnis venusta (Scarlet-thighed Dacnis-, Mielero celeste y negro, Vjuda
Dacnis cayana (Blue Dacnis―mielero azulejo)
Chlorophanes spiza (Green Honeycreeper―Mielero verde, Rey de Trepadores)
Cyanerpes lucidus (Shining Honeycreeper―Mielero luciente, Picudo)
Euphonia anneae (Tawny-capped Euphonia―Eufonia gorricanela, Bananquilla)
Euphonia affinis (Scrub Euphonia ―Eufonia garantinegra, Aguio)
Euphonia luteicapilla (Yellow-crowned Euphonia―Eufonia coroniamarilla, Aguio)
Euphonia laniiropsis (Thick-billed Euphonia―Eufonia piguigruesa, Aguio)
Euphonia hirundinacea (Yellow-throated Euphonia―Eufonia gorgiamarilla, Aguio)
Euphonia imitans (Spotted-crowned Euphonia―Eufonia vientirrojiza)
Tangara lavata (Golden-hooded Tanager―Siete colores, Mariposa)
Cyanerpes cyaneus (Red-legged Honeycreeper―Mielero patirrojo, Picudo)
Buthraupis arcaei (Blue-and-Gold Tanager―Tangara de Costillas Negras)
Thraupis palmarum (Palm Tanager―Tangara palmera)
Ramphocelus passerinii (Scarlet-rumped Tanager Also Cherrie’s Tanager (West coast subspecies)―Tangara lomiescarlata)
Piranga olivacea (Scarlet Tanager ―Tangara escarlata)
Tachyphonus luctuosus (White-shouldered Tanager―Tangara caponiblanca)
Family Emberizidae: New World Sparrows, Finches, and Grosbeaks
Sporophila aurita (Variable Seedeater ― espiguero variable)
Arremon aurantiirostris (Orange-billed Sparrow―pinzón piguinaranja)
Saltator atriceps (Black-headed Saltator―Saltator cabecinegro)
Saltator maximus (Buff-throated Saltator―Saltator gorgianteado, Sinsanteverde)
Pheneticus ludovicianus (Rose-breasted Grosbeak ―Picogrueso pechirrosado, Calandria)
Pheneticus melanocephalus (Black-headed Grosbeak―Picogreuso cabecinegro)
Cyanocompsa cyanoides (Blue-black Grosbeak―Picogreuso negro azulado)
Sporophila torqueolai> (White-collared Seedeater―Espiquero collarejo, Setillero)
Volantinia acarina (Blue-black Grassquit―Semillerito negro azulado, Brea)
Arremonops conirostris (Black-striped Sparrow ―Pinzon cabecilistado)
MAMMALS
Unfortunately, hunting and habitat loss have greatly reduced the area's animal species. We are working with La Fundación Ecotrópica and others to expand the habitat in the area.
1. Agouti paca (paca―tepezcuintle)
2. Canis latrans (coyote―coyote)
3. Cebus capucinus (white-faced monkey―mono carablanca)
4. Choloepus hoffmanni (2-toed sloth―perezoso de dos dedos)
5. Dasyprocta punctata (agouti―guatuza)
6. Dasypus novemcinctus (armadillo―armado or cusuco)
7. Didelphis marsupialis (southern opossum―zorro pelón)
8. Eira barbara (tayra―tolumuco or gato del monte)
9. Glossophaga soricina (nectar bat or long-tongued bat―murciélago lengualarga or murciélago nectarívoro)
10. Leopardus wiedii (margay―caucel or tigrillo)
11. Lontra longicaudis (river otter―nutria or perro de agua)
12. Mustela frenata (long-tailed weasel―comadreja)
13. Nasua nasua (white-nosed coati―pizote)
14. Orthogeomys cherriei (Cherrie's pocket gopher―taltuza)
15. Potos flavus (kinkajou―martilla or mico de noche)
16. Procyon lotor (raccoon―mapache)
17. Sciurus variegatoides (variegated squirrel―ardilla)
18. Tayussu tajasu (collared peccary―sainu or javelina)
19. Thyroptera tricolor (Sacker footed bat or Spix's disk-winged bat―murciélago de ventojas)
20. Uroderma bilobatum (common tent-making bat―murciélago constructor de tiendas)
AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES
Frogs and lizards are some of the most common animals that you see at the Ranch on a day in and day out basis.
1. Ameiva festiva (central american whiptailed lizard―chisbala)
2. Basiliscus basiliscus (Common Basilisk)
3. Bolitoglossa lignicolor (bark-colored slamander or Camron Mushroomtongue Salamander)
4. Bothriechis schlegelii (eyelash pit viper―oropel)
5. Bothrops asper (fer-de-lance ― terciopelo)
6. Bufo marinus (giant toad―sapo grande)
7. Clelia clelia (mussurana―zopilota)
8. Coniophanes fissidens (Yellowbelly Snake)
9. Corytophanes cristatus (Smooth Helmeted Iguana)
10. Craugastor crassidigitus (Isla Bonita Robber Frog)
11. Craugastor fitzingeri (Fitzinger’s Robber Frog)
12. Craugastor stejnegerianus (Stejneger’s Robber Frog)
13. Ctenonotus cristatellus (Puerto Rican crested anole)
14. Ctenosaur (ctenosaur iguana―garrobo)
15. Dermophis glandulosus (no common name)
16. Dendrobates auratus (Green and Black Poison Frog)
17. Diasporus diastema (Caretta Robber Frog)
18. Elentherodactylus bransfordii (Bransford's litter frog)
19. Gonatodes albogularis (Yellow-headed Gecko)
20. Holcosus festivus (Central American Ameiva)
21. Holcosus leptophrys (Delicate Ameiva)
22. Holcosus quadrilineatus (Four-lined Ameiva)
23. Holcosus undulatus (Rainbow Ameiva)
24. Hyalinobatrachium colymbiphyllum (Plantation Glass Frog)
25. Iguana iguana (green iguana―iguana verde)
26. Incilius aucoinae (no common name)
27. Incilius coccifer (Southern Roundgland Toad)
28. Lachesis muta (bushmaster―matabuey)
29. Lepidophyma flavimaculatum (Yellow-spotted Tropical Night Lizard)
30. Leptodactylus savagei (Savage’s Thin-toed Frog)
31. Leptodeira polysticta (no common name)
32. Leptodeira septentrionalis (norther cat-eyed snake)
33. Lithobates warszewitschii (Warszewitsch’s Frog)
34. Micrurus multifasciatus (bicolored coral snake―coral)
35. Micrurus nigrocinctus (central american coral snake―coral)
36. Norops biporcatus (green tree anole)
37. Norops limifrons (Border Anole)
38. Norops lionotus (Lion Anole)
39. Norops polylepis (Many-scaled Anole)
40. Oedipina alleni (Allen’s Worm Salamander)
41. Oxbelis fulgidus (green vine snake)
42. Physalaemus pustilosus (mudpuddle frog)
43. Pristimantis ridens (Rio San Juan Robber Frog)
44. Pseustes poecilonotus (Puffing Snake)
45. Rhaebo haematiticus (Truando Toad)
46. Rhinella marina (Cane Toad)
47. Sachatamia albomaculata (Yellow-flecked Glass Frog)
48. Scincella cherriei (Brown Forest Skink)
49. Smilisca phaeota (New Granada Cross-banded Treefrog)
50. Thecadactylus rapicauda (central american smooth gecko)
51. White tree frog (no identification)
INSECTS AND BUTTERFLIES
We have only just begun to catalog the insects in the area.
1. Mesosimia (owl-eyed butterfly)
2. Morpho peleides marinita
3. Morpho peleides limpida
Trees and Plants
La Cangreja and the surrounding area is thought to have more botanical diversity than anywhere else in Costa Rica, even more so than Corcovado National Park, the crown jewel of Costa Rica's National Park system. There is still a great amount of inventory yet to be done
in the area. La Cangreja and the vicinity are thought to contain most of the trees found in the book, Hardwood Trees in Danger of Extinction in Costa Rica, written by Quírico Jiménez Madrigal. This region is estimated to have some 2,500 plant species.
Astronium graveolens (gonzalo alves)
Bauhinia manca (monkey's ladder―escalera de mono)
Bombacopsis quinatum (spiny cedar)
Calophyllum brasiliense (Santa María)
Carapa guianensis (crabwood)
Caryocar costarricense (butternut)
Caryodaphnopsis burgeri (Lauraceae)
Cedrela odorata (cedar)
Ceiba pentadnra (ceiba)
Cordia alliodora (laurel)
Couratari guianensis (cachimbo or caobilla or amarillón)
Hieronyma alchorneoides (bully tree)
Mikania guaco (guaco)
Myroxylon balsamum (balsam)
Neurolaena lobata (gavilana)
Peltogyne purpurea (purple heart―nazareno)
Peltostigma guatemalense (Rutaceae)
Platymiscium pinnatum (Panama redwood)
Quassia amara (big man―hombre grande)
Schizolobium parahybum (quamwood)
Simarouba amara (olive)
Tabebuia guayacan (guayacán, corteza)
Tabebuia rosea (roble sabana)
Tachigalia versicolor (plomo)
Terminalia amazonia (roble coral)
Terminalia oblonga (surá)
Ternstroemia multiovulata
Unonopsis theobromifolia (Annonaceae)
Virola koschnyi (banak)
Vochysia ferruginea (botarrama)
Pseudobombax septenatum (ceibo)
Amblycercus holosericeus (Pico de plata)
Anthurium acutifolium
Anthurium ochanthum
Anthurium pittieri
Oxalis debilis (Trébol―Clover)