Hearing the Call of The Wild: Costa Rica Bans Hunting in Favor of Wildlife Protection

 

Wildlife Protection: Jaguar

Image Source: Costaricajourneys.com

Yesterday, Costa Rica lawmakers approved a law that prohibits hunting for sport, enforcing wildlife protection. The law only allows hunting for scientific research, subsistence and species control. The law is expected to be signed next week by President Laura Chinchilla who supports the bill. Costa Rica will become the first nation in the America’s to ban hunting for sport. Hunters violating the law would have to be a fine up to $3000. This landmark law marks a major victory for wildlife protection.

Wildlife Protection: Toucan

Image Source: Paradise-adventures-costa-rica.com

Hunting and illegal poaching is a major international problem that is contributing to species extinction especially within the exotic animal trade. Corcovado National Park has a long history of being under assault from hunting and illegal poaching. This law provides a measure to enforce restrictions on poachers and strengthen already existing wildlife protection measures. It also recognizes the importance of protecting wildlife. It will help to ensure the survival of the many endangered species that live in Costa Rica. If these species are able to survive in Costa Rica, this nation may become one of the most important places on earth for ensuring the survival of the many plants and animals currently threatened by over development, climate change and illegal poaching. Loss of biological diversity is major threat to the planet and the Osa Peninsula is known as one of the most “biologically intense places in the world.” Protecting not just this region but also all of Costa Rica ensures the biological diversity of at least this small country for now as a safe haven for wildlife on the planet.

Wildlife Protection: White Monkey

Image Source: Costaricalearn.com

Costa Rica’s economy is driven by the natural environment making conservation and wildlife protection an essential part of the country’s economic best interest. Costa Rica has conservation laws in place, and “wildlife” does not simply refer to animals but includes plants as well.  Costa Rica is home to some extremely rare flowers. The happiest nation in the world has one of the most forward thinking environmentally active governments on the planet.  Costa Rica’s government and industry exemplifies successful assertive leadership when it comes to protection of the environment. Most of the resorts, hotels  and small businesses heavily rely on ecotourism as part of their business model and wildlife conservation is in their best interest. This law helps to ensure wildlife protection and one of the main drivers of the Costa Rica economy- ecotourism.

Wildlife Protection: Sea Turtles

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If you have not visited Costa Rica it is well worth the trip.  Take a wildlife tour through Corcovado or any of the many reserves in this are, which include a host of conservation projects book a trip with Crocodile Bay.  From sea to land there are plenty of outdoor adventure options in this small country.