The Best Animal Rescue Centers and Sanctuaries in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, both native and domesticated animals can find themselves in dangerous or life threatening situations. Deforestation, habitat loss and abandonment of a mother are just some of the causes that can affect species including monkeys, sloths, and coatis. If you want to help, check out these animal rescue and wildlife sanctuaries dedicated to caring for these vulnerable creatures.
1. The Sloth Institute
The Sloth Institute is located in Manuel Antonio National Park -their aim is to conduct research and learn more about the species, educate people about the animals, and work towards much needed conservation efforts. This is not a sanctuary, but a non-profit institute that is doing everything it can to take care of the sloths that end up here, and to release them back into their natural environment as soon as they are ready. While the research and care center is not open to the public (in the best interests of the sick, injured, or orphaned sloths there), you can schedule a guided nature walk and see the animals in their wild environment. As with most non-profit organizations, donations are greatly appreciated. You can make a cash donation to the institute, you can ‘adopt a sloth’, or you can purchase an item from the TSI Sloth Wishlist on Amazon.
Calle Principal, Provincia de Puntarenas, Quepos, Costa Rica
2. Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center
The Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center is now located in Cedadilla, close to San Miguel in Alejuela, after moving from its original location near Puerto Limon. Their mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release the wild (and sometime domestic) animals that are brought to the center for care. While there are permanent staff in situ, the center relies heavily on compassionate and hardworking volunteers. As with most non-profit organizations, they also depend on donated money and supplies to care for the sloths, monkeys, owls, and other animals that have been given a second chance because of this rescue center. While they are small, they are doing great things for a lot of animals in Costa Rica.
San José Province, San Miguel, Costa Rica, +506 8892 6771
3. Jaguar Rescue Center
Forest, Natural Feature, Park
4. Tree of Life Wildlife Rescue Center
5. Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary
Natural Feature, Park
6. Sibu Sanctuary
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