Common Pauraque, Costa Rica

The Common Pauraque of Costa Rica is a master of the night and the ultimate hide-and-seek champion! This nocturnal bird, with its intricate mottled brown and gray feathers, blends perfectly into leaf litter on the forest floor, making it nearly invisible during the day. When dusk falls, it comes alive, flitting silently through the air in search of insects like moths and beetles. Its haunting, melodic call is the soundtrack of the Costa Rican night, often described as a ghostly “whee-you” that echoes through the darkness. If you’re lucky, you might spot one perched motionless, glowing eyes reflecting the moonlight like a tiny forest phantom.

But the Pauraque isn’t just about stealth—it has some quirky behaviors too! When disturbed, it will sometimes freeze completely or perform a comical little hop to a nearby hiding spot. Its long tail and soft wings allow it to maneuver gracefully through dense forests and open fields alike, making it an expert aerial acrobat. The Common Pauraque’s ability to disappear into its surroundings and come to life under the stars makes it one of Costa Rica’s most fascinating and enchanting nightbirds!