Costa Rica

Robert Ringler (ringler@cct.infi.net)
Fri, 19 Jun 1998 06:55:02 -0700


Joe,
	I have have made 9 trips to Costa Rica at all times of the year. 
 The birding is great year-round but there are trade-offs for each 
season.  The rainy season is roughly May to December and weather can 
always interfere with birding.  The trips I have done in the rainy season 
have not lost much time to the rain because it is often at times when you 
are not birding.  In spring more birds are breeding and easier to 
find.  Prices are also reduced in the rainy season.  In late spring and 
summer you do not get the North American migrants, which some may 
consider a small loss, but I have seen more Golden-winged Warblers in 
Costa Rica than as migrants in Maryland.  During the drier season (there 
is still some rain) prices are higher and many places may be crowded with 
tourists.  Different parts of the country have different weather patterns 
and rainfalls.  The Costa Rica field guide is very good and can give you 
more detailed info about climate.

				Bob Ringler