Metropolitan National Park

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Metropolitan National Park, located in Panama City, is a unique urban rainforest that provides a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. Despite its proximity to the bustling city, this park is home to an impressive range of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians that thrive in its lush environment.

Geoffroy’s Tamarin (Saguinus geoffroyi)
This small, agile primate is one of the most recognizable inhabitants of the park. With its striking black and white face and reddish back, the Geoffroy’s tamarin is a social monkey that moves quickly through the trees in search of fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

Nine-Banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)
This nocturnal creature is known for its tough, protective shell and impressive digging abilities. Often found foraging in the underbrush, the nine-banded armadillo primarily feeds on insects and small invertebrates.

White-Nosed Coati (Nasua narica)
A curious and highly adaptable mammal, the white-nosed coati is related to the raccoon. It has a long, flexible snout that it uses to sniff out insects, fruits, and small animals. Coatis are often seen in groups, moving energetically through the trees and forest floor.

Central American Agouti (Dasyprocta punctata)
This rodent, resembling a large guinea pig, plays a vital role in seed dispersal. Often shy and cautious, the agouti feeds on fruits and nuts, helping to regenerate the forest by burying uneaten seeds.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
These wild pig-like mammals are commonly found moving in small herds. They use their strong snouts to dig for roots and tubers while also feeding on fruits and small animals. Despite their stocky build, they are quite agile and quick.

Variegated Squirrel (Sciurus variegatoides)
Easily spotted due to its bushy tail and reddish-brown fur, the variegated squirrel is an active climber, often leaping between branches in search of nuts, seeds, and fruits.

Eyelash Palm Pit Viper (Bothriechis schlegelii)
This venomous snake, named for its distinctive “eyelash” scales above the eyes, is a master of camouflage. It waits motionless on branches, ambushing small prey such as birds and rodents.

Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)
A large, herbivorous lizard, the green iguana is commonly seen basking in the sun on tree branches. It has strong climbing abilities and primarily feeds on leaves, flowers, and fruits.

Basilisk Lizard (Basiliscus basiliscus)
Nicknamed the “Jesus Christ Lizard,” this reptile is famous for its ability to run across the surface of water. It is often seen near streams and ponds, where it hunts for insects and small vertebrates.

Common Opossum (Didelphis marsupialis)
A nocturnal marsupial, the common opossum is an opportunistic feeder, eating everything from fruits and insects to small vertebrates. Its prehensile tail helps it navigate through trees and dense undergrowth.

Birds

Metropolitan National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting a diverse array of avian species. With its mix of tropical rainforest and open spaces, the park provides an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds.

Keel-Billed Toucan (Ramphastos sulfuratus)
This striking toucan is known for its vibrant, multicolored bill and loud calls. It feeds on a variety of fruits, as well as insects and small lizards, often seen hopping among the treetops.

Blue-Crowned Motmot (Momotus coeruliceps)
With its brilliant blue-green plumage and long tail adorned with racket-like tips, the blue-crowned motmot is a mesmerizing sight. It prefers shady forest areas and is known for its distinctive “whoop” call.

Crimson-Backed Tanager (Ramphocelus dimidiatus)
Easily recognized by its deep red body and black wings, this tanager is a common visitor to the park’s edges and clearings. It feeds primarily on fruits and small insects.

Slaty-Tailed Trogon (Trogon massena)
This trogon, with its green back, red belly, and striking blue-black head, is often found perching quietly in the mid-canopy. It feeds mainly on fruits and large insects.

Yellow-Headed Caracara (Milvago chimachima)
A bold and opportunistic raptor, the yellow-headed caracara is often seen scavenging or hunting small animals. Unlike most raptors, it frequently walks along the ground in search of food.

Whooping Motmot (Momotus subrufescens)
Similar to its blue-crowned cousin, the whooping motmot is known for its long, racket-shaped tail and gentle, rhythmic calls. It often perches motionless, scanning for insects or small vertebrates.

Lineated Woodpecker (Dryocopus lineatus)
This large woodpecker, with its black body and striking red crest, is frequently heard before it is seen, thanks to its loud drumming on tree trunks. It uses its strong beak to extract insects from dead wood.

Rufous-Breasted Hermit (Glaucis hirsutus)
A small, fast-moving hummingbird, the rufous-breasted hermit hovers around flowers, sipping nectar with its curved bill. It prefers dense forest areas and is often seen near heliconias.

Clay-Colored Thrush (Turdus grayi)
This plain-looking thrush is Panama’s national bird. Despite its modest appearance, it has a beautiful and melodious song, often heard throughout the park.

Black-Chested Jay (Cyanocorax affinis)
With its striking black and yellow plumage, this intelligent bird is highly social and often moves in noisy groups. It feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates, sometimes even raiding nests for eggs.

Metropolitan National Park serves as a vital refuge for these and many other species, offering a glimpse into Panama’s rich biodiversity right in the heart of the city.