The national bird of Costa Rica is the Clay-colored Thrush, known universally to locals by its Spanish name, the Yigüirro. This common and widespread species is deeply integrated into the country’s daily life and natural landscapes. Unlike many national birds chosen for spectacular plumage, the Yigüirro was selected because it represents the natural richness and unpretentious character of the nation, symbolizing the close connection between Costa Ricans and their environment.
The Yigüirro: Official Designation and Cultural Significance
The Clay-colored Thrush was formally designated as Costa Rica’s national bird in 1977, a choice that elevated an ordinary-looking species to a status typically reserved for visually striking wildlife. Its scientific name is Turdus grayi, placing it within the thrush family alongside species like the American Robin. The decision to choose the Yigüirro was based on its cultural and historical significance.
It holds a unique place in the country’s folklore because its complex song is traditionally heard at the start of the rainy season, typically around late April or May. For generations of farmers, this vocalization served as a natural signal that the planting season was beginning. The bird’s association with the life-giving rains and the agricultural cycle made it a symbol of humility, productivity, and the simple beauty of nature, embodying the national philosophy of “pura vida.” Its frequent mention in Costa Rican poetry, music, and literature further solidified its position as a national emblem.
Physical Characteristics and Distinctive Vocalization
The Clay-colored Thrush is a medium-sized songbird, measuring approximately 23 to 27 centimeters in length and weighing between 74 and 76 grams. Its appearance is modest, featuring a uniform, dull clay-brown or olive-brown plumage that is slightly paler on the underside. The throat often displays faint, darker streaks, but the bird lacks the bright colors or dramatic markings found on many other tropical species.
A key physical detail is its bill, which is a dull greenish-yellow with a dark base, complemented by pinkish-tan legs and reddish irises. This unassuming visual presentation contrasts sharply with its famous, virtuosic song, which is the primary reason for its celebrated status. The song is a low-pitched, slow, and melodic warbling composed of rich, varied phrases and whistled notes.
Males sing extensively, often before dawn, to establish territory and attract mates. This complex and consistently musical vocalization ensured that the bird was a constant companion to the country’s population. The song is often described as a long-continued caroling that rewards listeners with its intricate composition.
Habitat, Diet, and Behavior
The Yigüirro is a highly adaptable bird, which contributes to its ubiquity across Costa Rica’s diverse geography. It thrives in a wide range of habitats, from sea level up to elevations of about 2,500 meters. This includes rural environments like forest edges, pastures, and coffee plantations, as well as human landscapes such as suburban gardens and city parks.
As an opportunistic omnivore, its diet is varied and changes with seasonal availability. It primarily forages for insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates by hopping along the ground and using its bill to flip over leaf litter. The bird also consumes fruits and berries, often gathering in small flocks in fruiting trees. This ground foraging behavior, similar to the American Robin, makes it a familiar sight near human settlements.