Table of Contents
Introduction
With its shimmering plumage and long, snowshoe-like tail, the motmot houtouc (Momotus momota) is one of Costa Rica’s most fascinating birds. Nicknamed “Guardabarranco” in Spanish, meaning “cliff-guard”, it is found in the tropical rainforests of the plains and mountains. Its melodious song resonates throughout Central America.
Physical description
The motmot houtouc measures around 30 cm in length. Its plumage features a gradation of green on the head, back and central rectrices. The wings are blue, the breast orange and the belly turquoise. The outer rectrices have a striking black and blue pattern. The motmot’s beak is long, slender and slightly curved. Its legs are short. Weight varies from 75 to 200 grams.
Habitat and distribution
The motmot frequents tropical rainforests up to 1200 meters altitude. It is found from Mexico to northwestern South America and throughout Central America. In Costa Rica, it can be found everywhere except in the arid northwest. Motmots are particularly fond of the dense vegetation along rivers.
Behavior and territoriality
The motmot is a diurnal bird that lives in pairs. The size of its territory depends on available resources, but can cover several hectares of forest. Motmots are highly territorial, aggressively attacking intruders. The pair jointly defends its territory by emitting alarm calls and chasing invaders.
Diet
The motmot’s diet consists of insects (grasshoppers, locusts, beetles), small reptiles such as lizards, young rodents and small fruits. It hunts mainly by lying in wait for prey from a high perch. When it spots prey, the motmot swoops down in direct flight and catches it on the ground or in mid-air.
Breeding
The breeding season takes place between February and June, depending on location. The motmot nests in a burrow it digs with its beak and feet in a soft earth bank. The burrow is generally 1 to 2 meters deep. The female lays between 2 and 4 white eggs. Incubation lasts around twenty days. Both parents look after the young for 3 weeks before they fledge.
Song
The motmot’s song is a melodious combination of high-pitched whistles, trills and low, purring-like notes. It can be heard singing from morning until dusk to mark its territory and communicate with its mate. The song is often interspersed with beak clicks.
Conservation status
Although deforestation is a local threat, motmot houtouc populations remain stable throughout its range. The species is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.
Where can I see the motmot in Costa Rica?
The motmot can be easily observed and heard in Costa Rica in many national parks and reserves, such as Poás, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Barra Honda and the San Ramon forest. All you have to do is listen and look up in the undergrowth!
