The Clay Colored Robin is a small common bird throughout all Central America. In Costa Rica it can be easily found in Manuel Antonio National Park and Cahuita National Park. Currently, the conservation rating for the Clay-colored Robin is Least Concern. The habitat of these birds ranges from South Texas to northern Colombia in South America. In much of its range it is familiar for locals in yards and gardens.

The plumage is brownish, somewhat lighter below than above, lightest on the flanks. The throat is faintly streaked. Young birds are slightly different. They have a faint mottling on the back and under-parts. The bill is greenish yellow with a dark base, the legs are pinkish or flesh colored, and the irises are reddish. Clay Colored Robins from humid regions are somewhat darker than those from dry regions.

Male and female are about the same length although some females might be smaller. They can be 23–27 cm and weighs 74–76 g. There have been too few studies about these birds so there is no know average lifespan yet. These guys usually forage for fruit or invertebrates on the ground or near it.

Just before the rainy season males sing nonstop to let others know that the territory is taken. When he has established its territory it will fight anything that come close, even squirrels. Their mating season is between March and July and may. The female lays 2 to 4 pale blue eggs with red-brown and gray markings. During this time she gets aggressive in defense of its nest, otherwise they are not territorial.

They have a special importance for Costa Ricans because in 1977, the Costa Rican Government declared the clay-colored robin as a national symbol due to its strong and melodious song. In this country it is also known as yigirro.

Marina K. Villatoro, the Travel Experta, has been living in Central America – Costa Rica and Guatemala for over 10 years. She has traveled here extensively. Now loves organizing vacations to this amazing part of the world, having first hand experience of all the places with her family. Contact her for advice and to plan your perfect trip!

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