Costa Rica Wildlife

Costa Rica’s wildlife is epic, and people from all over the world travel here to experience it for themselves. Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity, and it’s home to a wide variety of animal and bird species. While we cannot provide an exhaustive list due to the extensive diversity, we can certainly mention some of the most notable and iconic species you can find in the country. Remember that specific species’ status may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to consult current field guides and resources for the most up-to-date information.

Mammals

Three-Toed Sloth

The Three-Toed Sloth is a fascinating and unique creature found in Costa Rica, among other Central and South American countries. There are two species of three-toed sloths: the Brown-throated sloth (Bradypus variegatus) and the Pale-throated sloth (Bradypus tridactylus). Both species can be found in various parts of Costa Rica, primarily in rainforests and lowland tropical forests.

Here are some key characteristics and information about the three-toed sloth found in Costa Rica:

1. Appearance: Three-toed sloths are known for their slow-moving and tree-dwelling lifestyle. They have a round face, short snout, large eyes, and small mouth. Their shaggy fur ranges from pale brown to grayish-brown, which helps them blend into the trees. They have three clawed toes on each limb, which is how they get their name.
2. Behavior: Sloths are famously slow-moving animals and spend most of their lives in trees. They have adapted to this lifestyle with a slow metabolism and a diet mainly consisting of leaves, particularly from the Cecropia tree. Their slow pace is also a survival strategy as it helps them avoid detection by predators like eagles and jaguars.
3. Diet: Three-toed sloths are herbivores and primarily eat leaves. Their specialized digestive system allows them to extract nutrients from rigid, fibrous plant material. However, their diet is low in calories, which is one reason they move so slowly, conserving energy.
4. Reproduction: Sloths have a relatively low reproductive rate. They typically give birth to a single offspring, known as a “slothlet,” after a gestation period of about six months. The mother carries the baby sloth on her belly for several months before it becomes more independent.
5. Habitat: Three-toed sloths are found in various habitats in Costa Rica, including rainforests, cloud forests, and tropical forests. They spend most of their time in the canopy of trees, moving slowly and hanging from branches using their strong limbs and claws.
6. Conservation: Three-toed sloths are considered to be of least concern regarding conservation status, although they face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development. Many efforts are in place in Costa Rica to protect their natural habitats and raise awareness about the importance of preserving these unique creatures.

Observing three-toed sloths in their natural habitat can be a rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts and tourists visiting Costa Rica. They are known for their laid-back demeanor and are often a favorite among those seeking to explore the country’s rich biodiversity. Remember that these animals should be observed from a distance and not disturbed to ensure their well-being and conservation.

White-Faced Capuchin Monkey

The White-Faced Capuchin Monkey, scientifically known as Cebus capucinus, is a species of New World monkey that is commonly found in Central America, including Costa Rica. These monkeys are known for their distinctive appearance, high intelligence, and social behaviors.

Here is some information about the White-faced Capuchin Monkey in Costa Rica:

1. Physical Characteristics:
   • White-faced Capuchin Monkeys are small to medium-sized primates with a body length of about 30 to 50 centimeters (12 to 20 inches) and a tail of similar size.
   • They have a characteristic black body and limbs, but their most distinctive feature is the white fur on their face and throat, which gives them their name.
   • These monkeys have a prehensile tail, which means they can use it to grasp and hold onto objects, aiding their arboreal lifestyle.
2. Habitat:
   • White-faced Capuchin Monkeys are highly adaptable and can be found in various habitats in Costa Rica, including rainforests, dry forests, and mangroves.
   • They are often seen in the treetops, where they move with agility, thanks to their prehensile tail and strong limbs.
3. Behavior and Social Structure:
   • White-faced Capuchins are highly social animals and live in groups known as troops, typically consisting of 10 to 30 individuals.
   • Troops are usually led by an alpha male, responsible for defending the group and making decisions regarding movement and foraging.
   • They are diurnal, which means they are active during the day, and their diet primarily consists of fruits, leaves, insects, and small vertebrates.
   • These monkeys are known for their complex and intelligent behaviors, such as tool use and problem-solving.
4. Reproduction:
   • White-faced Capuchins have a promiscuous mating system, meaning multiple males within a troop may mate with females.
   • The gestation period for a female is around 5 to 6 months, after which she gives birth to a single offspring, occasionally twins.
   • Infant capuchin monkeys are cared for by the mother and other group members, and they are weaned at around 1 to 2 years of age.
5. Conservation Status:
   • White-faced Capuchin Monkeys are listed as a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), as they have a wide distribution and are relatively adaptable to various habitats.
   • However, they still face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and human activities.

These monkeys are popular among tourists in Costa Rica due to their charismatic appearance and behavior. It’s essential to remember that while they may be entertaining to observe, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance and not feed them, as feeding can disrupt their natural behaviors and diet. Conservation efforts in Costa Rica aim to protect their habitat and ensure their long-term survival in the wild.

Howler Monkey

Howler Monkeys (Alouatta spp.) are a group of New World monkeys known for their distinctive vocalizations. They can be heard from a long distance and are often described as sounding like a loud howling or roaring. In Costa Rica, you can find several species of howler monkeys, including the Mantled Howler Monkey (Alouatta palliata) and the Black Howler Monkey (Alouatta caraya).

Here are some key facts about howler monkeys found in Costa Rica:

1. Habitat: Howler monkeys are primarily found in tropical and subtropical forests, and in Costa Rica, they inhabit various types of forested environments, including lowland rainforests, cloud forests, and montane forests. They also occupy secondary forests and occasionally venture into human-dominated landscapes.
2. Range: Mantled howler monkeys are more commonly encountered in Costa Rica than black howler monkeys. They have a broader distribution and can be found in different regions of the country, including the Caribbean coast, the Pacific coast, and the central highlands. Black howler monkeys are less common in Costa Rica and are typically found in the northern part of the country.
3. Physical Appearance: Howler monkeys are medium to large-sized primates with prehensile tails. Mantled howler monkeys are primarily black with a whitish or golden throat and long, thick fur mantle. Black howler monkeys, as the name suggests, are predominantly black.
4. Vocalizations: These monkeys’ loud and distinctive howling calls serve various purposes, including territory defense and group communication. Howler monkeys have an enlarged hyoid bone in their throat, which allows them to produce these loud vocalizations. They are among the loudest land animals and can be heard from several kilometers away.
5. Social Structure: Howler monkeys typically live in social groups, which can consist of several individuals, including males, females, and their offspring. A dominant male often leads them, and their groups are territorial, defending their home ranges from other groups.
6. Diet: Howler monkeys are primarily folivorous, meaning they mainly eat leaves. However, they also consume fruits, flowers, and occasionally insects. Their specialized digestive system helps them break down the cellulose in leaves, which is a challenging dietary component to digest.
7. Conservation Status: Howler monkeys are listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many wildlife species, they face threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and human development. Conservation efforts in Costa Rica aim to protect their natural habitats and ensure their survival.

Visitors to Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas have the opportunity to observe howler monkeys in their natural habitat. These monkeys are an essential part of the country’s rich biodiversity. They are a source of fascination for tourists and researchers interested in Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife.

Jaguar

The Jaguar (Panthera onca) is the largest big cat species in the Americas and is native to various parts of the Americas, including Costa Rica. Jaguars are known for their striking appearance, featuring a beautiful golden-yellow coat with distinctive dark rosette-shaped spots. They are apex predators and play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of their ecosystems.
Here are some critical facts about jaguars in Costa Rica:

1. Habitat: Jaguars in Costa Rica inhabit various habitats, including tropical rainforests, lowland swamps, and grasslands. They are known to roam in both protected areas and private reserves within the country.
2. Distribution: Jaguar populations in Costa Rica are primarily found in the southern part of the country, along the border with Panama, and in the northern region near Nicaragua. They have a scattered distribution due to habitat fragmentation.
3. Behavior: Jaguars are solitary and elusive animals. They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They are excellent swimmers and climbers known for their strength and agility.
4. Diet: These carnivorous cats have a varied diet that includes a wide range of prey species, such as deer, peccaries, capybaras, and smaller mammals. They are also known to eat reptiles and birds.
5. Conservation Status: Jaguars in Costa Rica and across their entire range face threats to their survival. Habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans are some significant threats. Costa Rica has made efforts to protect jaguars through the establishment of protected areas and conservation programs.
6. Conservation Efforts: In Costa Rica, several national parks and wildlife reserves, such as Corcovado National Park and La Amistad International Park, provide critical habitat for jaguars and other wildlife. Conservation organizations and researchers work to monitor and protect jaguar populations, often employing camera traps and other scientific methods.
7. Legal Protection: The jaguar is legally protected in Costa Rica, and hunting or killing them is strictly prohibited. Conservation laws and international agreements like the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) help safeguard jaguars and their habitats.

Jaguars symbolize strength and beauty in many cultures, including indigenous peoples in the Americas. Protecting their populations and preserving their habitats is essential for the species and the overall health and biodiversity of the ecosystems they inhabit.

Spectacled Bear

The Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus), also known as the Andean bear, is a bear species found primarily in South America, including parts of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela. While it is not native to Costa Rica, it is found in some neighboring countries, such as Colombia and Ecuador.

Here are some key characteristics and information about the spectacled bear:

1. Appearance: Spectacled bears are medium-sized bears with a distinctive facial pattern that resembles spectacles or glasses, which gives them their common name. They have light-colored markings around their eyes and sometimes on their chest and throat. The rest of their fur can range from black to brown.
2. Habitat: Spectacled bears typically inhabit high-altitude montane forests in the Andes Mountains. They can be found in a variety of ecosystems, including cloud forests, páramos (high-altitude grasslands), and dense mountainous forests.
3. Diet: These bears are omnivorous, and their diet includes a wide range of foods, such as fruits, leaves, flowers, insects, small mammals, and occasionally larger prey like deer. They are known for their adaptability in finding food sources in their mountainous habitats.
4. Behavior: Spectacled bears are primarily solitary animals, and food availability can influence their behavior. They are known for being excellent climbers and spend a significant amount of time in trees, where they forage for food and rest.
5. Conservation status: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists Spectacled bears as vulnerable. Their populations are threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these bears and their habitats.

While spectacled bears are not native to Costa Rica, the country does have its own diverse range of wildlife, including various species of monkeys, sloths, jaguars, tapirs, and numerous bird species. Costa Rica is renowned for its rich biodiversity and efforts to conserve its natural heritage through national parks and protected areas.

Birds

Scarlet Macaw

The Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao) is a striking and colorful species of parrot that is native to Central and South America. In Costa Rica, these magnificent birds are found in various regions, including the Pacific and Caribbean lowlands and some parts of the Central Valley. They are known for their vibrant plumage and are one of the country’s most iconic and recognizable bird species.

Here are some key characteristics and information about the Scarlet Macaw in Costa Rica:

1. Appearance: Scarlet Macaws are easily distinguishable by their brilliant scarlet plumage covering most of their body. They have long tail feathers with blue and green hues, a yellow patch around the eyes, and a white facial area. Their wings also display vibrant blue and yellow colors.
2. Size: These macaws are one of the larger parrot species, with an average length of about 81 to 96 centimeters (32 to 38 inches) from beak to tail. They have a wingspan of around 81 to 94 centimeters (32 to 37 inches).
3. Habitat: Scarlet Macaws in Costa Rica can be found in a variety of habitats, including lowland tropical rainforests, evergreen forests, and deciduous forests. They are often seen near rivers and on the edges of forests.
4. Behavior: Scarlet Macaws are social birds usually living in pairs or small family groups. They are known for their loud, raucous calls, which they use to communicate within their group and mark territory. These macaws are highly intelligent and are capable of problem-solving.
5. Diet: Their diet primarily consists of fruits, nuts, seeds, and occasionally flowers and leaves. They have strong beaks that can crack open nuts and seeds with ease.
6. Conservation Status: Scarlet Macaws are listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. However, they face various threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation, illegal pet trade, and hunting. Conservation efforts in Costa Rica and other countries aim to protect and preserve their populations.
7. Conservation Efforts: In Costa Rica, concerted efforts have been made to protect Scarlet Macaws and their habitats. Some areas, like national parks and wildlife reserves, provide safe havens for these birds. Additionally, initiatives to combat illegal wildlife trade and raise awareness about the importance of their conservation are ongoing.

Seeing Scarlet Macaws in the wild is a remarkable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers visiting Costa Rica. These birds are not only visually stunning but also play a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and contributing to the health of the forest. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the continued survival of this iconic species in Costa Rica and throughout their range.

Resplendent Quetzal

The Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno) is a magnificent bird considered one of Central America’s most iconic and revered species, particularly in countries like Costa Rica and Guatemala. It holds a special place in the mythology and culture of indigenous Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Maya and Aztecs, where it was seen as a symbol of freedom, beauty, and the divine.

Here are some critical facts about the Resplendent Quetzal found in Costa Rica:

1. Appearance: The Resplendent Quetzal is known for its vibrant iridescent green plumage covering most of its body. The males have long, streaming tail feathers that can reach up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) and are characterized by striking shades of green and blue. The females are similar in appearance but lack the long tail feathers.
2. Habitat: These birds are found in Central America’s cloud forests and highland areas, including parts of Costa Rica. They prefer altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 meters (3,900 to 9,800 feet) above sea level. Quetzals inhabit montane cloud forests with abundant avocados, which are their primary food source.
3. Diet: The Resplendent Quetzal primarily feeds on fruits, particularly wild avocados (aguacatillos). However, they may also consume insects and small vertebrates. They play an essential role in the dispersal of seeds, contributing to the forest’s ecological health.
4. Reproduction: Quetzals are known for their unique breeding behavior. To build their nests, they often use abandoned woodpecker nest cavities in decaying trees. Breeding pairs raise their chicks together, with both the male and female participating in incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
5. Conservation Status: The Resplendent Quetzal is classified as “Near Threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts in countries like Costa Rica include protecting its cloud forest habitat through national parks and reserves and promoting responsible tourism to generate revenue for conservation.
6. Cultural Significance: The Resplendent Quetzal has deep cultural and historical significance in Costa Rica and other Central American countries. It is the national bird of Guatemala and has appeared on the country’s flag and currency. In Costa Rica, it is a symbol of beauty and freedom. It is often associated with the country’s natural wealth and ecological diversity.

Seeing a Resplendent Quetzal in the wild is a dream for many birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Costa Rica’s cloud forests, such as those found in Monteverde and Savegre, are some of the best places to spot these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Birdwatching tours and responsible eco-tourism initiatives have also helped raise awareness and support for the conservation of the Resplendent Quetzal and its unique cloud forest habitat in Costa Rica.

Toucans

Costa Rica is home to several species of toucans belonging to the family Ramphastidae. These colorful and charismatic birds are known for their large, distinctive bills and vibrant plumage. Toucans play a vital role in the ecosystems of Costa Rica as seed dispersers, helping to regenerate the forest by consuming fruits and excreting seeds in different locations.
Here are some of the toucan species that can be found in Costa Rica:

1. Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus):

• • The Keel-billed Toucan is one of the most iconic and easily recognizable toucan species.
  • It has a large, multicolored bill with shades of green, yellow, orange, and red.
    The plumage of the Keel-billed Toucan is mainly black with bright chestnut on its belly and legs.
  • This species is found in lowland and montane forests throughout Costa Rica and is known for its distinctive call, which sounds like a frog-like croak.

1. Collared Aracari (Pteroglossus torquatus):

• • Collared Aracaris are smaller toucans with a black head, white collar, and a red band across their chest.
  • They have a colorful but shorter bill compared to some other toucan species.
  • Collared Aracaris are often seen in groups and are known for their social behavior.
  • They can be found in various forested habitats, including lowland rainforests and foothills in Costa Rica.

1. Yellow-eared Toucanet (Selenidera spectabilis):

• • Yellow-eared Toucanets are small toucan species found in the mountainous regions of Costa Rica.
  • They have a predominantly black body with a yellow patch behind the eye and a yellow patch on their throat.
  • The bill of Yellow-eared Toucanets is shorter and less vibrant than that of larger toucan species.
  • They are typically found at higher elevations, particularly in cloud forests.

1. Fiery-billed Aracari (Pteroglossus frantzii):

• • Fiery-billed Aracaris have striking plumage, black feathers, and a vibrant, fiery red bill.
  • They are often found in the lowland and mid-elevation rainforests of Costa Rica.
  • These aracaris are known for their distinctive vocalizations, which include a series of high-pitched “ki-ki-ki” calls.

Toucans in Costa Rica are primarily frugivorous, meaning they mainly feed on fruits. They are important seed dispersers in the ecosystem, helping to maintain the diversity of plant species in the rainforests and other habitats. Toucans are also attractive for birdwatchers and tourists visiting Costa Rica due to their colorful appearance and unique behaviors.

Hummingbirds

Costa Rica is home to a diverse array of hummingbirds, with around 50 different species of these small, colorful birds belonging to the family Trochilidae. Hummingbirds are among the most remarkable and captivating bird species in the world due to their iridescent plumage, rapid wing beats, and unique feeding habits. Here are some notable hummingbird species found in Costa Rica:

1. Rufous-tailed Hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl): This is one of the most common and widespread hummingbird species in Costa Rica. It has a distinctive rufous-colored tail and greenish upperparts.
2. Violet Sabrewing (Campylopterus hemileucurus): The Violet Sabrewing is a large, stunning hummingbird with iridescent violet-blue plumage and a long, curved bill. It’s often seen in cloud forests and highland regions.
3. Fiery-throated Hummingbird (Panterpe insignis): Known for its vibrant colors, this hummingbird has a bright green body and a fiery red throat. It is typically found in the higher elevations of Costa Rica.
4. Green-crowned Brilliant (Heliodoxa jacula): This species boasts a green crown and brilliant iridescent plumage. It’s commonly found in both lowland and montane habitats.
5. Long-tailed Hermit (Phaethornis superciliosus): As the name suggests, this hummingbird has an elongated tail and is often seen in forested areas, where it feeds on nectar from understory flowers.
6. Purple-crowned Fairy (Heliothryx barroti): This tiny hummingbird is recognized by its purple crown and iridescent green plumage. It’s found in the lowland rainforests of Costa Rica.
7. Stripe-tailed Hummingbird (Eupherusa eximia): A striking species with a distinctive black stripe down its white tail, this hummingbird is often spotted in the montane forests of Costa Rica.
8. Black-crested Coquette (Lophornis helenae): This diminutive hummingbird is characterized by its black crest and iridescent green body. It’s found in various forested habitats.
9. Coppery-headed Emerald (Elvira cupreiceps): Endemic to Costa Rica and western Panama, this hummingbird has a coppery head and a brilliant green body. It’s primarily found in highland cloud forests.
10. Blue-throated Goldentail (Hylocharis eliciae): With its iridescent green plumage and a vibrant blue throat, this hummingbird is a delightful sight in the forests and gardens of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, cloud forests, and highland regions, provide these hummingbird species with a rich and varied habitat. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world flock to Costa Rica to observe and photograph these beautiful and agile birds in their natural environment. The country’s commitment to conservation and its numerous protected areas make it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Harpy Eagle

The Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is a magnificent and powerful bird of prey found in the rainforests of Central and South America, including certain parts of Costa Rica. It is one of the largest and most impressive eagles in the world. Here is some information about the Harpy Eagle as it pertains to its presence in Costa Rica:

1. Distribution in Costa Rica: Harpy Eagles are not commonly found in Costa Rica, and their presence in the country is quite limited. They are primarily found in the lowland tropical rainforests of Central and South America, with Costa Rica representing the northernmost edge of their range. They are more commonly observed in Brazil, Panama, and Colombia.
2. Habitat: Harpy Eagles prefer undisturbed, remote tropical rainforests where they can find large trees for nesting and abundant prey. In Costa Rica, they may be found in remote and pristine rainforest regions, particularly in the southern part of the country, such as the Osa Peninsula and the Corcovado National Park.
3. Appearance: Harpy Eagles are known for their striking appearance. They have a distinctively large head with a crown of long, black feathers that can be raised into a prominent crest. They also have striking gray upperparts and white underparts, with black bands on their tail and wings. Their legs are thick and powerful, ideal for catching and holding onto prey.
4. Diet: Harpy Eagles are apex predators and feed primarily on various mammals, including monkeys, sloths, tree-dwelling anteaters, and large birds. They are known for their powerful talons, which they use to snatch prey from the treetops or canopy. Their strength allows them to capture prey that is larger than themselves.
5. Conservation Status: The Harpy Eagle is classified as Near Threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. The main threats to their population include habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal poaching. Conservation efforts are in place in some areas to protect these magnificent birds and their habitats.
6. Importance in Ecosystem: Harpy Eagles play a crucial role in the rainforest ecosystem by helping to control populations of various prey species. Their presence indicates a healthy and intact ecosystem, making them a vital conservation focus.

Observing a Harpy Eagle in the wild is a rare and incredible experience due to their elusive nature and remote habitat preferences. In Costa Rica, dedicated wildlife enthusiasts and researchers may occasionally encounter these majestic birds in the deep rainforests of the country’s southern regions. Conservation efforts are essential to protect their remaining habitats and ensure the survival of this remarkable species.

Great Green Macaw

The Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus), also known as the Great Military Macaw or Buffon’s Macaw, is a striking and endangered parrot species native to Central and South America. In Costa Rica, this magnificent bird can be found in specific regions, primarily in the country’s northern parts, such as the Caribbean lowlands and the Sarapiquí region. Here are some critical details about the Great Green Macaw:

1. Appearance: Great Green Macaws are large parrots with vibrant green plumage, a long tail, and a distinct red forehead patch. They have blue wingtips, a red shoulder patch, and bare facial skin around their eyes that is light pinkish-white.
2. Habitat: These macaws primarily inhabit lowland tropical rainforests, especially near rivers and swamps. They rely on specific tree species like the almendro (Dipteryx panamensis) for nesting and feeding.
3. Behavior: Great Green Macaws are social birds, often forming small groups or flocks. They are known for their loud, raucous calls and are skilled fliers, capable of covering large distances in search of food.
4. Diet: Their diet consists mainly of fruits, seeds, nuts, and flowers. The almendro tree is significant for them as it provides essential food sources.
5. Conservation Status: The Great Green Macaw is endangered due to habitat loss, deforestation, and illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are in place to protect their natural habitat and combat poaching. In Costa Rica, various initiatives are aimed at safeguarding this species, such as creating protected areas and researching their behavior and needs.
6. Nesting: These macaws nest in tree cavities, typically choosing the large hollows of almendro trees. Nesting sites are crucial for their survival, and their protection is essential to prevent further declines in their population.
7. Population Size: The exact population size of the Great Green Macaw is difficult to determine, but it is estimated to be in the low thousands or even less. Conservationists are working to monitor and protect the remaining populations in the wild.
8. Legal Protection: The Great Green Macaw is protected by law in Costa Rica, making it illegal to capture, trade, or harm them. The government has also established national parks and reserves to protect their habitats.

Conservation efforts in Costa Rica and other countries where these macaws are found are critical to the species’ survival. These efforts include habitat preservation, captive breeding programs, and public awareness campaigns to reduce the demand for illegally captured birds in the pet trade.

These are just a few examples of the many animal and bird species you can encounter in Costa Rica. The country’s diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, cloud forests, mangroves, and coastal regions, provide a wide range of wildlife habitat, making it a popular destination for adventure travel, nature enthusiasts and ecotourists.