The Beautiful Wildlife of Costa Rica

My recent journey through Costa Rica has come to an end, and I’ll share more about my time there soon. But right now, as I sit in London Kings Cross waiting for the final leg of my journey home, all I can really think about and reflect on is the country’s boundless wildlife and how fortunate I am to have seen it.

This wet little sloth was spotted in a tree by the reception of my hotel in La Fortuna. Lounging amongst the branches, he was completely at ease — and yet only visible for a few minutes before blending back into the background. Capturing the brief moment it raised its head was a wonderful win for me.

I saw several toucans around and about, but this one in particular seemed readily primed for the camera, even offering what looked like a small smile.

Whilst exploring a track by my hotel in Monteverde, a group of us were quickly joined by a large group of monkeys, running and leaping above our heads. One even made direct eye contact as we both stood suspended for a few moments, waiting to see if the other would make a move.

This delightful jay landed right on the fence by me during breakfast in Tamarindo, showcasing its beauty just perfectly and even offering a little song.

Whist relaxing on a caramaran cruise, we were joined by both dolphins and sea turtles. Sadly, the dolphins eluded my camera, but I could clearly capture a couple of turtles that appeared as though they could be mating.

During a walk around Selvatura Park’s hanging bridges, the wildlife was admittedly a little scarce. But, I was rewarded with a clear view of a gorgeous quetzal around the seventh bridge — truly a sight to behold.

I saw plenty of lizards around and about the hotels and streets in general, but this little fellow really caught my eye, having wandered out from the overgrowth and right in front of my path.

As a part of my trip I joined a crocodile safari, and got up close and personal with these giant reptiles in a way I’ve never had the opportunity to before.

I also managed to capture a large vulture in flight, its wingspan surprisingly extensive.

Butterflies were another creature I spent a lot of time around, but I particularly love this shot taken of a glasswing butterfly during a night walk through the jungle. What a thing to witness.