Your Guide to Costa Rica Wildlife

slothWhat can you expect on your visit to Costa Rica? Wildlife. And lots of it. Costa Rica is known to be one of the most biologically diverse countries on the planet. Despite the country’s tiny land mass, it is home to about 4% of worldwide species. This is a country truly dedicated to retaining the beauty of its land by dedicating 26% of its land mass to preserves and park systems. Keep your camera on hand at all times, you’re bound to be captivated by the uniqueness and beauty of many species during your trip. It is nearly impossible to see all of the country’s wildlife in a short visit or even in a lifetime, but we want to share some of the common animals sightings when you stop to see us in Manuel Antonio.

What Wildlife will you see in town?

In this coastal town, we often see Mono Titi monkeys or “squirrel monkeys” as locals call them, jumping from limb to limb. The Titi monkeys travel in troops and can be sighted early in the morning as well as evening. Often, babies are on the backs of their fathers. These dads take care of the young ones after they are born and carry the baby to the mother for nursing. The way the father Titi leaps effortlessly with child in tow is something to see. The troops will travel up to 17 kilometers a day for exercise and for food! We never get tired of spotting them daily at one of our favorite rental homes Casa Maravilla which is nestled in a biological corridor.

High in the trees are slow-moving & nocturnal two-toed sloths. You can catch a glimpse of the three-toed sloths too! Hard to spot, but once you do see them it’s even harder to peel your eyes away. The fur on the sloth actually grows green algae helping them to blend in with trees of tropics. On the ground level, green iguanas are constantly skirting into the plants as you walk through town. No need to trek far through the jungle.

And the geckos are everywhere. They climb sides of houses and railings, keeping homeowners and renters company. No need to squirm, these little guys help us out by eating insects, especially bothersome mosquitos. They make their presence known by a loud clicking sound used to attract mates or to attack another male.

Explore Costa Rica Wildlife in National Parks

One of the most popular national parks exists in our backyard: Manuel Antonio National Park. Impressive white sand beaches, coves, lush greenery through the tropical landscape keeps travelers busy for hours. If for some reason you didn’t spot enough of your favorites in town you will definitely see them here. Guides are at the ready to help. Skilled guides will walk you through the park using a telescope & binoculars. They know where and what to look for and are often able to spot animals you’d never see with the naked tourist eye.

Some of Costa Rica’s Most Popular National Parks:

  • Arenal Volcano National Park
  • Cahuita National Park
  • Chirripo National Park
  • Corcovado National Park
  • Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Poas Volcano National Park
  • Tortuguero National Park