Animal Antics in Costa Rica - By: Tony Maniscalco

As one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world, it’s pretty much a certainty that while you’re walking Costa Rica, you’ll be able to see some amazing animals. Thanks to a rich rainforest system, and miles of beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of exotic animals, with many distinct species on offer for the keen animal-spotter. Costa Rica is home to over 800 species of birds (with over 50 species of hummingbirds alone), 4 species of monkeys, 2 species of sloths, and over 35,000 species of insects for the dedicated entomologist to inspect. Here are a few animals you should try not to miss while walking Costa Rica.

Monkeys

Where there are rainforests, there are monkeys, and Costa Rica is certainly no exception! Capuchin monkeys with their distinctive white faces can often be spotted, and are usually seen moving from tree to tree via high branches – certainly a unique method of walking Costa Rica! One monkey you might hear rather than see is the famous howler monkey, with its distinctive (and very loud) call. The howler monkey is also one of the largest monkeys in Costa Rica, reaching about three feet tall, and they’re known to be strict herbivores, while other monkeys might snack on the occasional insect or two.

Frogs

The frog is a very important animal in Costa Rica – they’ve become so emblematic of the country, they’re recognised as Costa Rican national symbols, and depictions of frogs are very important in Costa Rican culture. They’re both difficult and easy to spot while walking Costa Rica: though many are coloured with shades that blend in with their jungle surroundings, many species also have distinctive traits that help an eagle-eyed walker to spot them – such as the famous ‘red-eyed tree frog’. One species, however, is considerably rarer than the others. Once found throughout areas such as Monteverde, many now believe the golden toad to be extinct; though some optimists hold to the theory that the species is waiting for the perfect season to re-emerge.

Turtles

Alright, turtles may not be the animal that immediately springs to mind to see while you’re walking Costa Rica. However, those who decide to walk close to shore at the right time might be rewarded with the sight of hundreds of turtles coming ashore to lay eggs or, perhaps months later, the sight of hundreds of baby turtles emerging from the sand and finding their way into the ocean. It’s definitely a spectacular event, though you’ll have to make special arrangements to visit a beach at night, and under supervision.

About the Author

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. They offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries. While walking Costa Rica with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you will see scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Tony-Maniscalco/95592

Additional Articles From - Home | Travel & leisure | Destinations