Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center Provides Refuge for Costa Rican Animals

Alajuela, Costa Rica – Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, located in a tropical rainforest, receives over 3,000 wild animals annually, including those injured, trafficked, orphaned, or surrendered. Established in 1989, the center’s mission is to rehabilitate these animals and return them to the wild, though not all can be released due to dependency on humans or permanent medical conditions.

Monkey Electrocutions Rise Due to Habitat Loss

Costa Rica reports more than 6,000 wildlife electrocutions annually due to human development and forest fragmentation, particularly impacting spider monkeys, the most vulnerable species. These monkeys often rely on power lines as a means of travel.

Rehabilitation Process for Monkeys

Rescate’s rehabilitation process for monkeys, especially spider monkeys, is lengthy, often taking years to prepare them for release, due to their specialized low-calorie diet. The current troop preparing for release includes monkeys of various ages to foster mutual support.

Sloth Recovery and Return

In 2019, a two-toed sloth was rescued after being electrocuted and undergoing a partial arm amputation. She successfully returned to the sanctuary’s surrounding land via wildlife corridors, demonstrating the center’s commitment to habitat restoration.

Partnership for Conservation

Humane World for Animals Costa Rica partners with Rescate, providing grants and collaborating on legal frameworks and environmental education to address ongoing habitat destruction and strengthen wildlife protection efforts.