Costa Rica is synonymous with astounding beauty – mountainous cloud forests, tropical lowlands, volcanic valleys and wetland marshes are just a few of the country's natural treasures. This environmental diversity lends itself not only to stunning landscapes, but also to protecting an enormous variety of wildlife.

One of the 20 most biologically diverse countries in the world, Costa Rica boasts only 0.03% of the earth's total land mass. It is home to more than 500,000 animal species, which represent an incredible 4% of the world's total species. This peaceful nation,  claiming just 16% of the Earth's entire ocean surface, is home to 3.5% of the planet's marine species. This biodiversity is owed to the nation's strategic location between North and South America, serving as a bridge between these two very different continents.  Costa Rica's temperate climate and varied ecosystems create an ideal settling spots for species of both continents.

To protect its grand assortment of birds, mammals, insects, reptiles and amphibians, Costa Rica has declared 26% of its total acreage as protected. These national parks, wildlife refuges and private reserves provide safe habitats for many of the world's endangered species, including the resplendent quetzal, Titi monkey, great jaguar and leatherback turtle.

In total, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) estimates that Costa Rica is home to 39 endangered or threatened animal species. Costa Rican law additionally protects other animals from hunting and trafficking, bringing the total number of protected species to 87 birds, 27 mammals, 36 amphibians and 16 reptiles.