Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant (Lophotriccus pileatus)
RTPI Affiliate Sean Graesser says that his favorite resident bird netted in this past trip to Costa Rica was the Scale-crested Pygmy-Tyrant (Lophotriccus pileatus). It seems that not much is known about this species. They sure are charismatic with a small crest and tenacious attitude to match. This individual bounced around in some vegetation before taking off.
Read MoreHooded Mergansers
It has been a great autumn for Hooded Mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus) even as we near the end of the season, with all of the above-average temperatures, little ice and rarely seen snow. Courting is well underway for these birds as you can see by the striking black-and-white crests being displayed by the drakes. The several hens present on this pond were mostly preoccupied with trying to take a nap or grabbing a bite to eat. The boys kept swimming after them, vocalizing and trying their best to get some attention. When it comes time to breed these birds will be making their nests in tree...
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