The White-eared Ground-Sparrow is a distinctive bird known for its prominent white cheek patch (ear coverts) contrasting with a dark head. It is a shy, ground-dwelling inhabitant of montane cloud forests.
Where to spot
Endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, specifically in the Talamanca Mountain Range. It favors dense undergrowth, bamboo thickets, and forest edges in humid montane and cloud forests.
How to spot
Listen for its loud, far-carrying song, a distinctive series of whistled notes. Patiently observe the forest understory; it typically forages on the ground. The prominent white patch on its cheek, contrasting with a dark crown and black eye-stripe, is unmistakable.
When to spot
Resident year-round within its high-altitude range. Most active and vocal during the early morning hours, especially at dawn.
Where to spot
Endemic to the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, specifically in the Talamanca Mountain Range. It favors dense undergrowth, bamboo thickets, and forest edges in humid montane and cloud forests.
How to spot
Listen for its loud, far-carrying song, a distinctive series of whistled notes. Patiently observe the forest understory; it typically forages on the ground. The prominent white patch on its cheek, contrasting with a dark crown and black eye-stripe, is unmistakable.
When to spot
Resident year-round within its high-altitude range. Most active and vocal during the early morning hours, especially at dawn.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species has a particularly loud and distinctive song that resonates through its dense forest habitat, often being the first indication of its presence.
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