Get to know Diamante Eco Adventure Park’s Animal Sanctuary
Within our facilities at Diamante Eco Adventure Park, you will find the largest variety of animal species gathered in one location. Our Animal Sanctuary is home to up to 40 different animal species, and almost all are indigenous to Costa Rica. Among them, Costa Rica’s most outstanding animals such as Jaguars, Sloths, Toucans, Monkeys, Crocodiles and so many more!
The animals under our care are not suited to live in the wild; we’ve designed specialized habitats according to the specifications provided by The Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica. All of these measures have been carefully considered with the aim of promoting the welfare of animals.
In this blog we invite you to learn more about the wild part of life that gives a full sparkle of excitement to our park.
Toucans:
Toucans bring a vibrant burst of color and a symphony of unique calls when visiting the forest in Costa Rica. These captivating birds, with their distinctive large bills and striking plumage, are a common sight in the country’s diverse ecosystems.
Costa Rica is home to several species of toucans and they play a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds, contributing to the regeneration of the biodiversity that defines the natural landscapes.
Inside our Animal Sanctuary:
Ramphastos ambiguus often referred to as the Black Mandible Toucan or the Yellow-throated Toucan.
This toucan species is primarily frugivorous (mostly feeds on fruits). However, it also consumes insects, small vertebrates, and eggs. They beautiful birds produce a series of loud, croaking calls.
One fun fact about them is that despite their large and seemingly cumbersome bills, these birds are surprisingly adept at plucking and consuming a variety of fruit. Their bills, often as long as half their body length, are not only a striking feature but also serve as versatile tools.
Toucans use their bills like forceps, skillfully grabbing and manipulating fruit, while their tongues assist in swallowing. This remarkable adaptation showcases the evolutionary ingenuity of these tropical avian wonders.
Sloths:
One of the most enchanting inhabitants of Costa Rica’s landscapes that can be found in our Animal Sanctuary is the two-toed sloth (Choloepus species). Unlike their three-toed counterparts, these slow-moving creatures captivate visitors with their laid-back demeanor and distinct appearance.
Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems provide the ideal habitat for these elusive mammals, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a glimpse into the sloth’s leisurely lifestyle.
Two-toed sloths are predominantly arboreal, spending the majority of their lives hanging upside down from tree branches. Their unique adaptations, such as a specialized diet of leaves and a slow metabolism, contribute to their unhurried pace, allowing them to conserve energy in the dense rainforest canopies.
The two-toed sloths of Costa Rica offer a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience. Their unhurried lifestyle, coupled with the country’s dedication to conservation, makes Costa Rica a premier destination for those seeking a close encounter with these charming creatures.
Join us at our Animal Sanctuary for the Daily Sloth Feedings:
- 9:30 AM
- 12:30 PM
- 3:30 PM
Jaguars:
The jaguar (Panthera onca), the largest big cat in the American continent, plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems.
Since jaguars are apex predators, they are at the top of the food chain in their ecosystems. Their presence is essential for maintaining a balanced and healthy ecosystem by controlling prey populations and preventing overgrazing.
Jaguars have a distinctive coat pattern with rosettes (rose-like spots) that help camouflage them in their natural environment. The color of their coat varies from golden yellow to reddish-brown, depending on their habitat.
At Diamante, you can find Nico & Sama, two brother jaguars rescued and brought to our care since 2015. They are known for their peaceful coexistence and remarkable agility. They are strong swimmers and are capable of climbing trees, making them versatile hunters that can pursue prey both on land and in water.
Every Wednesday and Sunday at 10:00 AM, we prepare our Jaguars Enrichment Program for all visitors to engage where you can see them jump and play with treats such as meat hanging, watermelon popsickles.
At Diamante, we focus our efforts to provide the best quality of life for all of the species under our care. We’ll be happy to receive your visit to our facilities so you can enjoy and get to know from up close: Amphibians, Cats, Birds, Monkeys, and so many more.
Visit with the Adventure Pass, Cultural Pass or Discovery Pass
Adventure Pass: Full Day Pass: Animal Sanctuary, Zipline, Cultural Tour, Beach Access and Lunch
Cultural Pass: Cultural Tour in our Casita Tipica and the Farm. Access to our Animal Sanctuary.
Discovery Pass: Animal Sanctuary.
Contact us today to “Live the Adventure!”