Costa Rica is globally recognized for its biological diversity, hosting an array of plant and animal life within its small geographic boundaries. Among the country’s many natural wonders, its avian population is particularly celebrated, drawing bird enthusiasts from around the world. The tiny, iridescent hummingbird is one of the most visible and dynamic members of this feathered community. Their sheer density and variety in this Central American nation are extraordinary. This exploration will define the number of hummingbird species found here and uncover the unique geographic reasons for their abundance.
The Definitive Species Count
The accepted number of hummingbird species documented within Costa Rica is approximately 50 to 53. This figure includes resident species that live year-round in the country, along with seasonal migrants that pass through during specific times. The minor fluctuation in the exact count often depends on the taxonomic authority or whether vagrant species—those rarely found outside their usual range—are included in the official list.
To grasp the magnitude of this number, consider the global context. There are over 360 recognized species of hummingbirds across the Americas, where the family Trochilidae evolved and exists exclusively. This means that a country smaller than the state of West Virginia hosts roughly 15% of the world’s entire hummingbird diversity. By comparison, the United States and Canada combined are home to only about 15 to 20 species, many of which are migratory.
Ecological Drivers of High Diversity
Costa Rica’s location as a narrow land bridge between the North and South American continents is a primary factor in its high biodiversity. This geographic position has facilitated the mingling of species from both continents, resulting in a rich mixture of tropical influences. The country essentially acts as a funnel, concentrating species that might otherwise be more spread out.
The extreme variation in elevation across a short distance is also key. Costa Rica rises from sea level to over 3,800 meters in only about 120 kilometers, creating sharp altitudinal gradients. These changes generate diverse ecosystems, from lowland rainforests to cloud forests and high-elevation páramo. Each of these distinct microclimates supports a specialized suite of flowering plants and a unique set of hummingbirds adapted to feed on them.
A coevolutionary relationship between hummingbirds and flowering plants is also central to this high concentration of species. The birds rely on nectar, and the plants rely on the hummingbirds for pollination. The presence of both Pacific and Caribbean slopes, each with different rainfall patterns and plant communities, adds another layer of complexity to the available habitats. This combination of a migratory corridor, vertical stacking of ecosystems, and specialized plant-pollinator relationships creates the ideal conditions for a high number of species to thrive.
Prime Locations and Viewing Advice
Several locations across Costa Rica are rewarding. Cloud forests, such as those found in Monteverde and San Gerardo de Dota, are famous for their “hummingbird galleries,” where feeders attract dozens of individuals and several different species simultaneously. High-elevation parks, including areas near Poás Volcano, provide access to specialized mountain species like the Fiery-throated Hummingbird. For lowland species, private ecological reserves like Mistico Park or specific lodges in the Osa Peninsula maintain native gardens that attract numerous resident species.
Observing hummingbirds requires patience and an understanding of their behavior. The best times for viewing activity are typically early morning and late afternoon when the birds are most actively feeding. While feeders offer guaranteed close-up views, seeking out natural flowering plants like Heliconia and bromeliads provides a chance to see them in a more natural feeding context. Maintaining a respectful distance and moving slowly will improve the chances of observation.