Scientific Name: Euphonia hirundinacea

Tiny finch of tropical lowlands and foothills, mainly in humid areas. Found in forest canopy, adjacent clearings with trees, gardens. Usually in pairs, sometimes small groups that associate readily with other euphonias, especially when feeding at mistletoe. Male has rich yellow throat and underparts (lacks black throat of male Scrub Euphonia); female has pale grayish throat and yellow sides creating a vested appearance. Young male looks like female with an adult male head stuck on.

Its song is a delightful, jumbled series of high-pitched whistles and warbles, often interspersed with mimicry of other bird calls. While primarily a fruit-eater, favoring berries and especially mistletoe, the Yellow-throated Euphonia will also supplement its diet with small insects. They are generally resident throughout their range, though some local movements may occur in response to the availability of fruiting trees. These vibrant birds are a common and welcome sight in many Costa Rican gardens and forests, their bright colors and cheerful songs adding to the tropical ambiance.