If you’re visiting Monteverde, Costa Rica, and love birdwatching, one species you won’t want to miss is the Lesson’s Motmot (Momotus lessonii). Known for its brilliant colors, distinctive racket-shaped tail, and calm behavior, this tropical bird is often a highlight for nature lovers and photographers alike.
What Is the Lesson’s Motmot?
The Lesson’s Motmot is a medium-sized bird with a striking combination of colors—turquoise crown, green body, black face mask, and signature pendulum tail. It gets its name from French naturalist René Lesson, and is sometimes referred to locally as the “clock bird” due to its tail’s swinging motion, which resembles a ticking pendulum.
This species is part of the Motmot family, a group of birds native to Central and South America. It prefers forested habitats and edges, making Monteverde’s lush cloud forests an ideal home.
Where to Spot the Lesson’s Motmot in Monteverde
Monteverde is one of the best places in Costa Rica to observe this species. Here are top locations to spot it:
🌿 Curi-Cancha Reserve
A favorite among birdwatchers, Curi-Cancha is perhaps the most reliable place to see Lesson’s Motmot. The species often perches quietly along the trails, especially during the early morning hours.
🌳 Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
While more densely vegetated, the Cloud Forest Reserve also provides habitat for the Motmot, particularly at forest edges and along less-trafficked trails.
🌄 Private Gardens & Roadside Trails
Motmots are known to frequent garden edges, roadside trees, and even areas near lodges or coffee farms, especially where fruit is abundant.
Behavior and Vocalization
Lesson’s Motmot is often motionless, perched mid-level in the forest, making it easier to spot than many other birds. It feeds on:
- Insects
- Small reptiles
- Fruit
Its low, owl-like call is distinctive, a soft “whoot” that echoes through the trees. This call is often heard before the bird is seen.
Best Time to See It
The Lesson’s Motmot is a resident species that can be seen year-round in Monteverde. However, your best chances are during the dry season (December to April) when birds are more active and visible.
Birdwatching Tours for the Lesson’s Motmot
At MonteverdeTravel.com, our guided birdwatching tours offer expert insight and high chances of spotting the Lesson’s Motmot. Our experienced local guides know the best habitats, feeding patterns, and call responses of this and other cloud forest species.
Why book with us?
✅ Local expert guides
✅ Top-quality optics provided
✅ Flexible departure times
✅ Custom private or group tours available
Tips for Spotting the Lesson’s Motmot
- Go early – Birds are more active in the early morning.
- Be quiet – These birds are shy and may fly off if startled.
- Look for tail movement – Their signature racket-tail often gives them away.
- Use a guide – Their local knowledge greatly increases your chances.
Other Birds You Might See with the Motmot
While searching for the Lesson’s Motmot, you may also encounter:
- Emerald Toucanet
- Keel-billed Toucan
- Resplendent Quetzal
- Blue-crowned Chlorophonia
- Hoffmann’s Woodpecker
Add the Lesson’s Motmot to Your Life List 🐦
The Lesson’s Motmot is a perfect introduction to the colorful world of tropical birding. With its calm presence and vibrant plumage, it captures the magic of Monteverde’s wildlife like few others can.
📅 Book your birdwatching tour now with MonteverdeTravel.com and let our expert guides lead you to unforgettable sightings, including the Lesson’s Motmot!
