randombirder

A poignant reminder how climate change is affecting the delicate rainforest ecosystems.  This sign was displayed within the Monteverde Cloud Forest. "Only fifteen years ago at this spot you could hear the sound of frogs.  Do you hear any today?   This cloud forest and all its magic is being transformed at an accelerated rate, and some of its inhabitants have not been able to adapt to such rapid change.  This is what happened to the legendary Golden Toad.  In 1987, more than a thousand individuals were observed, but by 1989 only a few individuals were found. None have been seen since. It was here in Monteverde where it was announced to the world that " Climate change has a direct relationship with the disappearance of species ""

A second visit to Central America and to the highly revered country of Costa Rica celebrated for its rich biodiversity and progressive leanings toward carbon neutral status. Having previously visited Belize, I was really looking forward to this trip having already experienced in some small part the extraordinary breadth of flora and fauna there. It would also make a change from thrashing round arable fields in Essex for a couple of weeks. The country is vibrant with colour and life, a culture based on the philosophy of 'Pura Vida' (pure life). The people here are extremely hospitable in most part. This was particularly the case within the interior of the country. Travel to San Jose is simple. Jump on at Gatwick and British Airways will take you straight there. A couple of movies and a couple of meals and the whole 11 hours is over in a twinkle. New Years eve was hilarious. Having arrived feeling a little weary after the journey, there was much anticipation in arriving...