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Image Source: Costaricabedfinder.com

Wildcats may look fierce and scary to most people but they are among the most critically endangered species in the world. Six species of wildcats are native to Costa Rica, and five of them can be found in the Osa Peninsula: jaguars, pumas, margay cats, ocelots, and jaguarondis. Jaguars are the most threatened of the six species. The wildcats of Costa Rica live in remote mountainous areas and in nature reserves. The multitude of nature reserves throughout Costa Rica has played a critical role in protecting not only wildcats but other endangered species as well. The main threat wildcats face is due to poaching and habitat loss. The more areas that are protected the better chance endangered species have of surviving and rebuilding their populations to healthy levels. Continue Reading

Image Source: Ecorazzi.com

Costa Rica President Laura Chinchilla signed a law-banning shark finning yesterday. The practice involves slicing off shark fins, often while the sharks are still alive and then throwing them back into the ocean to die. Costa Rica had loopholes in their previous legislation that banned the practice. It should also be noted that last week Costa Rica passed legislation banning hunting for sport. Huffington Post quoted President Chinchilla saying “Costa Rica may set an example to the world when it comes to environmental protection, but it must be noted that we have had a significant lag when it comes to protecting the oceans.” Continue Reading

Image Source: Costaricasunshine.com

The incredible biodiversity of marine and wildlife life, especially the abundant diverse fish populations attracts millions of visitors to Costa Rica each year. Anglers from all over the world travel to Cost Rica for year round sport fishing. Ocean activities include world class offshore and inshore fishing, surfing, diving, snorkeling and just dipping your toes in the sand. The Osa Peninsula is probably one of the best fishing spots in the world, with marlin and Red Snapper. Even less abundant marine animals such as whales and dolphins are safe in these waters. Costa Rica possesses 3.5% of the world’s marine life and is home to over a 1,000 species of fish, 17% of the all the fish species in the world. Continue Reading