Costa Rica is one of the most bio-diverse regions in the world. This small country has more bio-diversity than North America or Europe. The list of Costa Rica wildlife species found in this small country is extensive, thanks to its rich rainforest ecosystem and miles of beaches. Visitors wanting to see animals that they have never seen before will almost definitely accomplish that feat multiple times daily in this lush country.

Costa Rica is a dream location for people who love nature. Bird watchers have the chance to see over 800 species of birds including two species of macaws, over fifty species of hummingbirds, and a number of species of toucans. Those who like to keep their eyes out of the sky have plenty to see closer to the ground. Costa Rica animals include four species of monkeys, two types of sloth, and even jaguars and tapirs. For those who enjoy creepy-crawly bugs, amphibians, and reptiles, there are plenty of these too. Costa Rica is home to a large number of tree frogs, butterflies, lizards, sea turtles, and over 35,000 species of insects.

Due to the warm climate of Costa Rica, animals are mostly seen at dawn and dusk when the daytime temperature is at its coolest. Also, if staying outside of a large city, seeing exotic birds and animals becomes a natural occurrence, and sometimes an intimate up-close-and-personal one. For the most part, in areas where people are frequently present, animals in Costa Rica become accustomed to humans and are less skittish. This is most evident among the monkey population, particularly the Capuchin monkeys, who have made a habit out of stealing unattended food.

Costa Rica Map

Sadly, there are several species of Costa Rica animals that are on the endangered species list. This include the leatherback sea turtles, the squirrel monkey, the jaguar, and both the great green and the scarlet macaw. The Costa Rican people and government are striving to save their wildlife.

Costa Rica wildlife is very important to Costa Ricans, more commonly called Ticos. Ticos take a lot of pride in their country, and that includes the animals in Costa Rica. Their pride in their wildlife makes them want to show them off, while protecting them and educating others about their conservation. Costa Rica wildlife tours are an important aspect to a Costa Rica vacation. These tours can be taken as bird-watching tours through the trees of the Costa Rican rainforest, sea turtle tours along the Costa Rican beaches, or even monkey-watching tours. Costa Rica wildlife tours have become very popular, are mostly inexpensive, and can usually be booked through hotels, hostels, or booking agents.

It is important, while visiting Costa Rica, to respect this diverse country's efforts to conserve their natural resources. Whether endangered or not, caution should be taken when in contact with Costa Rica animals. It is important to follow rules set up by area authorities and guides on Costa Rica wildlife tours for personal safety, as well as the safety of the animals in Costa Rica. It is easy and fun to observe Costa Rica wildlife responsibly.