Save The Frogs: Night Walking through Costa Rica’s Rainforest Spotting Endangered Frogs

A night jungle walking tour through Costa Rica’s rainforest is the prime time to spot amphibians, which are among the many endangered species as a result of climate change. Walking through the jungle guided by the tour you will spot many wild night critters of the jungle including endangered frogs such as the iconic Red Eyed Frog of Costa Rica whose population is rapidly decreasing. Unfortunately, scientists in recent years have pointed out that the rapid decline in amphibians is the canary in the coalmine. Costa Rica has seen more than 75% of amphibian species decline in the last 35 years and all signs point to climate change as the main culprit. Costa Rica holds 5% of the world’s biodiversity so rapid species decline in this small area poses a major threat to species worldwide and the stability of ecosystems.

Costa Rica is a microcosm for the earth’s environment. According to the IUCN Red List there are now 486 critically endangered amphibian species, which means one third of amphibians are endangered. These numbers are alarming because it shows a dramatic population decline. Amphibian biodiversity is extremely high in the tropics. Amphibians are very sensitive to environmental conditions and pollutants because of their porous skin. Most frogs live at the top of mountainous ranges. Many endangered frogs suffer when their habitat is destroyed because of rapidly changing climate patterns. They are essentially trapped in an uninhabitable environment. These environmental changes create mass instability in species populations that disrupt their ability to survive and reproduce.

Conservation International is working hard in Costa Rica to help mitigate the impact of climate change through adaptation. They are working to strengthen the national parks and create new public and private protected areas. Protecting forests not only saves the habitat for many species, it is also a major factor in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.  Save the Frogs is also working to protect this endangered frogs through concerted international efforts that include Costa Rica. Conservation groups such, as these working in cooperation with the public and private sector are critical efforts to save endangered species. Ecotourism is an important factor in conservation because not only does it have a low impact on the environment but it also educates visitors about the natural environment and how it is being impacted and affected. In fact, there are many things the individual can do when traveling to reduce their carbon footprint such as flying economy instead of first class or business class, reusing towels and not have your linens changed every day.  Another way to keep it green is to hold off on technology upgrades such as the iPhone. There are lots of things we can do both as individuals to help support the larger efforts of the public and private sector.

The adventure of night walking tour through the jungle is definitely worth the trip. You will be able to learn about multiple species through sightings and explore a part of Costa Rica that most people never see.  Many of these species are becoming harder to spot as climate change continues to destabilize weather conditions and their environment.  But they remain a reminder of the earth’s biodiversity and the importance of taking care of the earth to ensure the survival of all species. Crocodile Bay works with local conservation groups and also provides many exciting eco-tours including night jungle walking. Every year more species get added to the critically endangered list. Taking an eco-minded vacation supports a green economy and aids in protection of species from further extinction. And of course, it is a fun adventure that doesn’t require sacrificing comfort!