Wildlife of the Sierpe Mangrove Ecosystem
The Térraba-Sierpe National Wetland is one of Central America’s most biologically productive environments. Home to over 400 species of animals and 290+ recorded birds, every bend of the river presents wild encounters.
American Crocodile
The Térraba-Sierpe wetland is home to one of Central America’s densest populations of American crocodiles. Specimens up to 4–5 meters bask along muddy sandbars during low tide.
Scarlet Macaw
The Osa Peninsula hosts the largest population of Scarlet Macaws in Central America. You will regularly see them flying in loud, affectionate pairs across the mangrove canopy or feeding on beach almond trees.
Three-Toed & Two-Toed Sloths
Both species thrive in the lush cecropia and mangrove canopy along the riverbanks. Expert boat guides spot them resting high in the branches, often with tiny baby sloths clinging to mothers.
Keel-Billed & Chestnut-Mandibled Toucans
With their unmistakable oversized rainbow beaks and vocal hollow calls echoing through the jungle, toucans love perching atop dead trees and palms along the river edges.
White-Faced Capuchin & Howler Monkeys
Troops of intelligent white-faced capuchins comb the mangrove branches for crabs, fruit, and snails, while deep roaring howler monkeys serenade the river at dawn and dusk.
Spectacled Owl & Tropical Raptors
A prize for birders, spectacled owls roost in dense, shaded mangrove hollows. The river is also home to Common Black Hawks, Ospreys, and Yellow-headed Caracaras.
Want to See These Animals in the Wild?
Join certified local naturalist captains on SierpeXplorer for a morning river safari through the Térraba-Sierpe mangroves.