Birds & Birding in Costa Rica: (Species Blog #13) – Costa Rica’s national motto and tourism slogan, “La Pura Vida” loosely translates to Live Life or Enjoy Life. With over 900 bird species recorded here, there is certainly lots to enjoy! Join with me as I guide you through the scenic wonderland that is Costa Rica. From the slow-moving waters of the Coastal Mangrove Wetlands to the heights of the Talamanca Páramo, over 300 species of birds will be featured in this blog series. **Some of this Blog Series photos (all taken by me) may have been taken in other nearby countries.

A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain

BIRDS & BIRDING IN COSTA RICA WEBSITE LINK: Common Ground Dove

The Common Ground Dove (Columbina passerina) is a small bird found in various regions. It inhabits the southern United States, parts of Central America, the Caribbean islands, and northern South America. Specifically, its range extends from the southern tip of the United States through most of Mexico, Central America, and the northern tip of South America. These doves are year-round residents and are commonly found in open areas with trees and bushes. They spend much of their time on the ground walking, although they retain the ability to fly. The species is not migratory and can be found throughout the year in the areas it inhabits.

OBSERVATION ANECDOTES

Actually less common than the Ruddy Ground Dove, the Common Ground Dove was seen in the dry forest area north of the Tárcoles River near the Caldera Mangrove Forests on Puntarena Province.

PHOTO GALLERY

View the three most recent Birds & Birding in Costa Rica series blog posts below.

• A Streak-headed Woodcreeper Feeds its Offspring Near the Arenal Observatory Lodge, Costa Rica
• PALE-BILLED WOODPECKER – Pura Vida Birds and Birding
• SMOKY-BROWN WOODPECKER – Pura Vida Birds and Birding
• HOFFMANN’S WOODPECKER – Pura Vida Birds and Birding
• BLACK-CHEEKED WOODPECKER – Pura Vida Birds and Birding