EcoChronicle
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A Social Songbird
Copious diversity is defined in the all too precious rain forests of Costa Rica. A symphony of birdcalls and songs, a cacophony of insect buzzes and chirps and sweet floral aromas fill the sticky morning air. At 5 a.m. sharp, biologist Mike Wells is in position, armed with his binoculars and parabolic microphone, at the edge … Continue reading
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Jeff Rochte was your average Las Vegas, Nevada, native teen. Unsure of what direction to take after high school, he traded in the city lights, casinos, American restaurants, and his friends for one thing: the Aviaros del Caribe Sloth Sanctuary. It was a dream that grandparents, the founders and owners of the sanctuary, had many … Continue reading
Alex Martínez watched the tree on the edge of his property as he called, “perrrrro, perrrro, perrrro.” Minutes later, a scarlet macaw appeared. The vibrant red, blue and yellow bird appeared healthy, with a limp wing the only remaining sign that it had been struck by a slingshot and captured to be sold as a … Continue reading
Drifting along the murky waters of the Puerto Viejo River, we have our cameras ready. We listen to the low hum of the boat’s engine until it suddenly cuts off and the driver points. Turning our heads to the right we spot a Tiger Heron. Shutter clicks sound as we capture the moment. We know … Continue reading
The “blue-jeans” poison dart frog, also known as the strawberry poison dart frog, is small in size but serves an important role in La Selva Biological Reserve in Sarapiquí, Costa Rica. The frogs are easily recognizable with their bright red head and back and blue legs that make it look as if they are wearing … Continue reading
Costa Rica is a country known for emphasizing its biodiversity and conservation practices. In the world of tropical studies, one particular Costa Rican research center reigns among the most prominent: La Selva Biological Institute. La Selva is a station in Sarapiquí nestled in the Caribbean lowlands of northern Costa Rica. Located near the intersection of … Continue reading
Monteverde is a tourism hot spot because of the cloud forest reserves. The dirt road leading into town gives a sense of a quaint mountain village. This image is broken when you enter the town of Santa Elena, which is jam-packed with tourists, hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts and farmstays nearby. Tour buses with “adventure” … Continue reading
