Barbilla National Park

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Barbilla National Park, located in the Caribbean region of Costa Rica, is a remote and lesser-visited park known for its rugged terrain, dense rainforests, and rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare and elusive species that thrive in its pristine habitat. Below are some of the most popular species found in Barbilla National Park.

Jaguar (Panthera onca)
The jaguar is the largest cat in the Americas and a top predator in Barbilla National Park. These elusive felines are primarily nocturnal and play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem by controlling prey populations.

Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)
This medium-sized wild cat is known for its striking spotted coat and nocturnal hunting habits. Ocelots are highly adaptable and can be found in the dense forests of the park, where they prey on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii)
As the largest land mammal in Central America, Baird’s tapir is an important species for seed dispersal. These herbivores are primarily nocturnal and often found near water sources, where they forage for leaves, fruits, and aquatic vegetation.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
This pig-like mammal is a social species that moves in groups through the park’s forests. Collared peccaries are omnivores, feeding on fruits, roots, and small animals, and they play a role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.

Neotropical River Otter (Lontra longicaudis)
Found in the park’s rivers and streams, this playful and agile otter is an excellent swimmer. It preys on fish, crustaceans, and amphibians and is an indicator species for clean and healthy waterways.

Eyelash Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii)
One of the most colorful and venomous snakes in the park, the eyelash viper is named for the distinctive “eyelash-like” scales above its eyes. It is an ambush predator, relying on its camouflage to strike unsuspecting prey.

Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops asper)
This highly venomous pit viper is one of the most feared snakes in Central America. It is commonly found in the dense undergrowth of Barbilla National Park and is responsible for many snakebite incidents due to its aggressive nature.

White-nosed Coati (Nasua narica)
A member of the raccoon family, the white-nosed coati is a curious and social mammal often seen foraging for fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. These animals are excellent climbers and are active during the day.

Three-toed Sloth (Bradypus variegatus)
A slow-moving and tree-dwelling mammal, the three-toed sloth is well adapted to life in the rainforest canopy. It feeds primarily on leaves and has a slow metabolism, which helps it conserve energy.

Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)
This unique and rare species is an expert in consuming ants and termites, using its long tongue and powerful claws to access insect nests. Giant anteaters are mostly solitary and require large territories to find sufficient food.

Birds

Barbilla National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its lush rainforests providing a habitat for a variety of stunning and rare bird species. Below are some of the most popular birds found in the park.

Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus)
One of the most endangered macaws in the world, the great green macaw is a striking parrot with vibrant green plumage. It relies on the mountain almond tree for nesting and food, making conservation efforts critical to its survival.

Keel-billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus)
With its brightly colored bill and playful nature, the keel-billed toucan is one of the most recognizable birds in the park. It feeds primarily on fruit but will also eat insects, eggs, and small reptiles.

Crested Guan (Penelope purpurascens)
A large and turkey-like bird, the crested guan is an important seed disperser in the rainforest. It is often seen foraging in the canopy in search of fruit, leaves, and small invertebrates.

Black-and-White Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus melanoleucus)
This striking raptor is a powerful predator that soars above the rainforest in search of prey, including small mammals, birds, and reptiles. It has a distinctive black-and-white plumage pattern.

White-collared Manakin (Manacus candei)
Known for its elaborate courtship displays, the white-collared manakin produces a unique snapping sound with its wings to attract mates. It thrives in the park’s lowland forests.

Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias)
This unique bird is known for its beautiful wing patterns, which resemble eyes when spread out. It is often found near streams and rivers, where it hunts for insects, fish, and amphibians.

Slaty-tailed Trogon (Trogon massena)
A colorful bird with deep green, red, and black plumage, the slaty-tailed trogon is a quiet species that prefers dense forest habitats. It primarily feeds on fruit and insects.

Black-throated Trogon (Trogon rufus)
Another member of the trogon family, this bird is slightly smaller and has a striking golden-yellow belly. It can be found perching quietly in the middle levels of the rainforest.

Rufous-tailed Jacamar (Galbula ruficauda)
This hummingbird-like bird is an insect hunter that perches on branches before darting out to catch flying prey. Its shimmering green body and long bill make it easy to recognize.

Ornate Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus ornatus)
A powerful and rare bird of prey, the ornate hawk-eagle is known for its striking crest and bold coloration. It hunts medium-sized mammals and birds within the dense rainforest canopy.

Barbilla National Park remains one of Costa Rica’s most pristine and ecologically rich areas, providing a safe haven for these incredible species.