The Animals of Costa Rica

Fortunately, Costa Rica’s wildlife is so extensive that we cannot provide an exhaustive list. However, this will provide you a great introduction to the animals you will find here. It is also a good preparation for your trip and will enable you to spot more of the listed animals during your vacation.

Over 80% of the earth’s terrestrial animals live in tropic regions. This explains why small Costa Rica has over 600 species to offer (excluding insects)! Ecologically, this is connected with the rainforests: because photosynthesis and production of organic matter is much faster than in temperate regions, there is space for more plant-eating animals (herbivores). Because carnivorous predators have more to eat, a larger amount of species can thrive in the tropics.

All wildlife pictures were taken by us on trips through Costa Rica and Central America. They show precisely what might expect you on your holiday!

Costa Rican Wildlife: Alphabetic Index