Wildlife and Jungle Conservation
Decades ago, most of this area was clear-cut for cattle farming, and many species of animals were hunted to the brink of
extinction. Many have become extinct here, such as spider monkeys, tapirs, sloths, scarlet macaws, and quetzals. In
addition, most of the hardwood trees in the area have been logged to the point where many species that exist are now
considered "the living dead", meaning that there are not enough left to reproduce, and they will ultimately go extinct.
Many conservationists moved to this area in recent decades and bought up the land, creating Cabo Blanco park and many other
smaller private reforestation projects. These areas are reforestation for the benefit of the animals that live there, not
for future logging such as teak plantations, where animals can't live. Raising cattle has also become more expensive, so
many farmers have been letting part or all of their land regrow. The result is that there is much more jungle, and many
more animals now than ten years ago. Many Ticos have become conservation minded, and are proud of Costa Rica's international
reputation as a "green" country. So this area is a great success story for conservationists. But the gains of recent
decades are now threatened by development.
There are many threats to the area's wildlife, some of which the general population doesn't know or understand. These include:
too many domestic dogs and cats, cutting of jungle "corridors" that create isolated islands of jungle, illegal hunting,
roadkills, pesticide and herbicide use, poaching of birds for pets and orchids for gardens, improper septic tanks and waste
disposal, noise pollution, and imbreeding.
Many great organizations are working in the area to save it from ourselves. Through direct action and education, we are
trying to insure that the area stays the paradise that we love. Please do your part by educating yourself about what you
can do to help on your own property, and donate to or volunteer for any of the organizations listed below.
If you're considering building a house in Costa Rica and want to know about how to make it more energy efficient, healthier, and better for the environment,
read this article on green construction and sustainable development: green building.
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Rainsong Wildlife Sanctuary
Organization based in Cabuya dedicated to reforestation, animal protection, and reintroduction of endangered species. They
currently have opportunities to live, eat, and work on the farm while helping to build a new wild animal recovery and reintroduction
center.
Email Rainsong 845-3190
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ACEPALECO
Organization based in Jicaral that buys cheap land to create an ever-expanding habitat for wildlife to live.
Email ACEPALECO 845-3190
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Curu Park
Private wildlife park between Tambor and Paquera with an incredible number of species. Curu has two animal reintroduction
programs that are experimenting with returning scarlet macaws and spider monkeys to the area. Curu has long-term volunteer
opportunities.
Email Curu 641-0100
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