Costa Rica is renowned for its rich biodiversity, and its diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of animals. The country’s strategic location, between North and South America, along with its varied climates and landscapes, contribute to the incredible diversity of wildlife. Here are some notable animals found in Costa Rica:
- Sloth:
- Description: Costa Rica is home to both two-toed and three-toed sloths. These slow-moving, arboreal mammals are often spotted in the country’s rainforests, where they spend most of their lives hanging upside down from trees.
- Howler Monkey:
- Description: Several species of howler monkeys inhabit Costa Rica, known for their distinctive vocalizations that can be heard echoing through the forests. They are often seen swinging through the treetops.
- Capuchin Monkey:
- Description: Capuchin monkeys are small primates with distinctive white faces and tufts of hair on their heads. They are agile and curious, often foraging for food in the canopy.
- Toucan:
- Description: The colorful toucans of Costa Rica, including the iconic Keel-billed Toucan, are known for their vibrant plumage and large, distinctive bills. They inhabit the rainforests and are often seen perched in trees.
- Scarlet Macaw:
- Description: The scarlet macaw is a large, brilliantly colored parrot with red, yellow, and blue feathers. While their numbers have decreased, efforts are being made to protect and reintroduce them into certain areas.
- Jaguar:
- Description: Costa Rica is home to a variety of big cats, including the elusive jaguar. Though rarely seen, these powerful predators roam the country’s rainforests and protected areas.
- Green Sea Turtle:
- Description: Costa Rica’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts are important nesting sites for various sea turtle species, including the green sea turtle. Tortuguero National Park is particularly famous for turtle nesting.
- Poison Dart Frog:
- Description: These small, brightly colored frogs are found in the rainforests of Costa Rica. While their vibrant colors are a warning of their toxicity in the wild, not all species possess harmful toxins.
- Resplendent Quetzal:
- Description: The quetzal is a strikingly beautiful bird with vibrant green and red plumage. It is considered a symbol of freedom and is often associated with the ancient cultures of Central America.
- Coati:
- Description: The white-nosed coati is a member of the raccoon family and is commonly found in the rainforests of Costa Rica. They are known for their long, flexible snouts and are often seen foraging for food on the forest floor.
Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation and its extensive system of national parks and protected areas contribute to the preservation of its diverse wildlife. Visitors to the country have the opportunity to experience these incredible animals in their natural habitats, making it a popular destination for ecotourism and wildlife enthusiasts.
The video was posted to YouTube by Jacob and Katie Schwarz, and first appeared in 2014 but is just as remarkable now as it was then
Can you identify most of the creatures in the short film so you will know what you are looking at when you watch it over, and over, and over….?
