When visiting the tropics you are going to come across animals and insects that you are not used to seeing. The wildlife in Costa Rica offered no exception for me! I lived in Canada for twelve years and the wildlife that you see there are usually bears, deer, buffalo, maybe a moose or cougar. But in Costa Rica you see monkeys, crocodiles, macaws, snakes, badgers, frogs, bats and sloths.
It’s interesting to see the various wildlife in Costa Rica compared to Canada. Generally the animals keep to themselves but with tourists around sometimes monkeys, pizotes and badgers will take food from your hand. There are lots of insects and bugs in Costa Rica including spiders, scorpions, mosquitoes, bats and nasty looking black wasps. The scariest one for me is the spider that jumps. They are harmless but that’s just too creepy for me!
Love the pics and CR. It takes me right back. The wildlife and scenery is fabulous. But what’s that black and white stripery thing?? It can’t be a badger – must be a skunk? We saw tapirs in the Osa too. A massive tarantula at our house and a bat in the toilet! Happy days:) Great to meet you out here on the blogosphere y buenas suerte:)
Hi Annabel,
I hope I’m not putting anyone off Costa Rica with this post! I’ve actually had very few incidents with creepy crawlies since I moved here in Dec 2008. Although I did have a scorpion in my shower once. I haven’t been to Osa yet as I am based on the other side in Playas Del Coco in Guanacaste. Haven’t seen a tarantula yet, thank god, but my friend said he’s had a few in his rural house. You’re right, it’s not a badger but a raccoon (mapache). There is a family of them living beside a restaurant in Ocotal and they are quite timid but will pluck up the courage to take food from your hand, if you are willing.
Nice to meet you and thanks for your comment!