Hummingbirds are generally very hard to notice because they rarely exceed 15 centimeters in length and flap their wings at incredible speeds. This is where their signature humming sound comes from. 

Presently there’s around 50 different species of these bullet-birds whizzing through Costa Rican airspace.

Costa Rica holds over 918 species of birds, six of which are endemic to the region.

Toucans are recognisable by their large, flashy beaks, while macaws—the most intelligent bird species on the planet—stand out with their rainbow-colored wings.

Pay attention to rustling sounds in the canopy—chances are it’s the work of three-toed sloths. These are rare moments when the funny-looking mammal isn’t lazing around in the shade. 

Fun fact—the fur of a sloth is actually an entire ecosystem unto itself! Colonies of algae and fungi give them a greenish hue which makes them unappetizing to predators.

There are four species of monkeys native to Costa Rica: the white-faced capuchin, spider monkey, the squirrel monkey, and the howler monkey.

Howlers are among the largest of Central America’s monkeys and, as their name suggests, they like to call out in raucous, booming calls that echo and fill the forest.

The teacup-sized Agalychnis callidryas are native to the rainforests of Costa Rica. Despite their conspicuous coloration, they are not venomous. The red-eyed tree frog’s startling neon-green bodies are just a way to create confusion and avoid predators.

Native to Central America, these lemur-like creatures are officially part of the raccoon family. They are proficient tree climbers and swimmers whose long tails serve as balancing poles.

You’ll recognise them by their chirping sounds and long snout, which helps them forage for insects and fruit.