Gondwanaland? the Planet

Story and photos by Tom Schultz

This sets the stage for birds in Costa Rica becoming part of the picture. What is fascinating is that botany and zoology back up the geologic theory of Gondwanaland’s formation. Plants around the world can be traced via DNA to common Gondwanic ancestors, validating the theory. One example are the laurel forests found in Chile and also New Zealand.

Perhaps the most amazing discovery is that the history and breakup of Gondwanaland can be traced through birds — including many found right here in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is a relatively new land mass, only about 11 to 18 million years old. Therefore, it got populated by bird species from South America — part of Gondwanaland — and then North America, which was not part of Gondwanaland. Many of the bird species in Costa Rica have a Gonwanic origin. Many do not. Both tell really interesting, albeit different, stories of our planet’s existence.

One of the most beautiful, and easiestseen, bird species here is the motmot. These stunning birds do have a unique appearance. But now take a closer look at their long tails, beautiful coloration and habit of making nests in the side of hills — and make comparisons with birds elsewhere. You then discover that the motmot is similar to the bee-eaters and

Can you identify these birds?

For the answers, the rest of the story, more photos and video, click here.

The history and breakup of Gondwanaland can be traced through birds — including many found right here in Costa Rica.