1. Sloths:

   • Costa Rica is home to both two-toed and three-toed sloths. These slow-moving creatures can often be spotted hanging from tree branches in rainforests. Keep an eye out for their furry bodies and distinctive facial expressions.

2. Howler Monkeys:

   • Recognized by their loud, distinctive calls, howler monkeys are often found swinging through the treetops in the country's lush rainforests. Listen for their distinctive vocalizations and look up to spot them in the canopy.

3. Capuchin Monkeys:

   • White-faced capuchin monkeys are another common primate species in Costa Rica. They are known for their expressive faces and agile movements. Look for them in both rainforests and dry forests.

4. Toucans:

   • With their vibrant and distinctive beaks, toucans are iconic birds in Costa Rica. The Keel-billed Toucan, in particular, is known for its colorful appearance. Keep an eye on treetops for these striking birds.

5. Scarlet Macaws:

   • These large, brilliantly colored parrots are a sight to behold. Scarlet macaws are often seen flying in pairs and can be spotted in the Osa Peninsula and other tropical regions.

6. Jaguars and Pumas:

   • Costa Rica is home to big cats such as jaguars and pumas. While they are elusive and rarely seen, the country's national parks, such as Corcovado National Park, offer a chance to encounter these magnificent predators.

7. Poison Dart Frogs:

   • These brightly colored frogs are small but stunning. Keep an eye on the forest floor, particularly in rainforests, to spot these vibrant amphibians. However, admire them from a distance as their bright colors signal toxicity.

8. Sea Turtles:

   • Costa Rica's coastlines, especially on the Pacific side, are nesting grounds for several species of sea turtles, including green sea turtles and olive ridley turtles. Witnessing a sea turtle nesting or hatching is a remarkable experience.

9. Hummingbirds:

   • Costa Rica boasts a variety of hummingbird species, each with its unique colors and patterns. Look for these tiny, fast-paced birds around gardens and hummingbird feeders in cloud forests and other habitats.

10. Caimans and Crocodiles:

    • Costa Rica has several species of caimans and crocodiles, which can be found in rivers and coastal areas. Boat tours in places like Tortuguero National Park offer opportunities to see these reptiles.

Casa Aloha

Wildlife – Information and Guidelines

The Biodiversity of the Nicoya Peninsula is what makes it one of Costa Rica’s top EcoTourism destinations. It is the variety of wildlife and biology that surrounds us here on a daily basis that can make you stay so amazing.

Mammals: Mantled Howler Monkey (Congo), Squirrel Monkey, White-throated Capuchin (Cari Blanka), White nosed Coati (Pizote), Red Brocked Deer, Agouti, Variegated Squirrel, Long nosed Bat.

Reptiles: Green Iguana, House Gecko, Gender Anole, Green Spiny Lizzard, Fer de Lance (Viper – Venomous ), Costa Rican Boa (More common).

Amphibians: Cane Toad (Common).

Birdwatchers Paradise: Scarlett Macaw (Rare), Orange-chinned Parakeet, Hummingbirds (Common), Turquoise-browed Motmot, Lessons Motmot, Collared Trogon, Collared Aracari (Tucan), Lineated Woodpecker, White throated Magpie-Jay, Great tailed Crackle, Yellow Crowned Euphonia, Hawks, Ospreys, Falcons and many more.

Butterflies and Invertebrates: The Blue Morpho and Monarch butterflies are common when in season. There is a variety of spiders, small and some bigger that can be found around the property and at rare times in the house or rooms. Many are harmless! The Bark Scorpion is common but rarely found in the house.

Casa Aloha, located in the Nicoya Peninsula, approximately 5 minutes from Montezuma is periodically available for rent on a short term basis. Here we  work on a daily basis to maintain the grounds, plants and trees and work on measures to care for our wildlife. The house is being fumigated on a regular basis. Our staff is well trained in how to deal with insects, crawlers and wildlife inside the house, around and on property.

Visitors to Casa Aloha might find 1 Spiders, 2 Scorpions, 3 Beetles, 4 Bats inside the house. Our house was designed to capture nature as much as possible. Our ceilings are high, there are spaces in the house that are open to capture natural expressions throughout the day and into the night. Most indoor insect and animal encounters will be very limited.

It is imperative to approach wildlife with respect and caution.

Never touch wildlife.

Do Not feed the animals.

Remember to be respectful of wildlife and follow ethical viewing practices, such as maintaining a safe distance and avoiding interference with their natural behaviors. Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems offer a chance to witness an incredible array of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

'Me ke aloha pumehana'

-Your Casa Aloha Family-

Is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and rich wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. When exploring the diverse ecosystems of Costa Rica watch out for some of the fascinating wildlife species. 

Despite covering only 0.03% of the Earth's surface, Costa Rica is home to nearly 6% of the world's biodiversity. This small country boasts an astonishing variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, cloud forests, mangroves, beaches, and coral reefs, which support an immense array of plant and animal species.

Costa Rica