@ Sonny Bono Salton Sea NWR–Union Tract / Visitor Center, Imperial County, CA, USA

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.

Common Ground Dove Distribution Map (from eBird)

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.

At Merritt Island NWR –Black Point Wildlife Drive
@ Key West Tropical Forest Botanical Gardens, FL
@ Sonny Bono Salton Sea NWR–Union Tract / Visitor Center, Imperial County, CA, USA

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

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ABOUT THE SITE

With a primary focus on birds, each blog series has it’s own unique look at the wildlife and wild places encountered at different locations that I have visited around the world.

ABOUT ME

I earned my college degree in biology, a foundation that shaped not only how I see the world, but how I’ve spent my life sharing it with others. For more than 40 years, I taught and led in public education, helping students discover the wonder woven into every corner of the natural world. That same drive has carried me through decades of citizen science and conservation work. As an active member of the Modesto Camera Club, I’ve developed a photographic practice that blends natural history with visual artistry, and my award‑winning images have been featured across the Internet on dozens of sites and field‑oriented platforms. This blog brings together my passions for birding, conservation, and storytelling.

~ Jim Gain