Costa Rica stands out worldwide for its progressive policies favoring the environment. Thanks to all the efforts in environmental matters, it has been possible to create safe spaces that guarantee the conservation of diverse wild species. One is the sloth, which became Costa Rica’s national symbol in August 2021.

The country has two species of sloths: the two-toed (Choloepus hoffmanni) and the three-toed (Bradypus variegatus).

The sloth is believed to represent Costa Ricans because of its peaceful, calm, and carefree behavior. For this reason, the country associated with this animal and Costa Rica tourism promoted sloths.

In the new Bicentennial Biological Reserve of the Republic Pájaro Campana, located in the canton of Coto Brus, the President of the Republic, Carlos Alvarado, sanctioned Law Nº10.007; law establishes the sloth as a new national symbol. This law aims to reaffirm the country’s promise of the protection and development of the environment.

This law also requires different actions by the ministries. For example, the law stipulates that the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation must place signs in areas of high lazy traffic, as well as the creation of overhead bridges for them to cross the streets safely.

The sloth has become a well-known figure because of its calmness, friendliness, and adorable face. They can be seen all over the country, but especially in the Caribbean and Pacific areas. Seeing them is something special because they transmit a lot of tranquility as there is very little chance of receiving an attack from these animals.

Costa Rica has two other animals that are considered national symbols: the Yigüirro and the Morpho Butterfly.

The yigüirro is a bird that lives almost everywhere in the country; the choice of the yigüirro as the national bird is due to its constant presence in the country. It is also due to the popular belief that its song announces the beginning of the rainy season, which is very important for agriculture.

On the second hand, the Morpho Butterfly is a species of butterfly with brilliant colors that live in the tropical rainforests of the country. The choice of the Morpho Butterfly as the national symbol because of its beauty and the importance it has in the ecosystem as a pollinator and food source for other animals. The two animals are emblematic of Costa Rica’s biodiversity demonstration of the country’s commitment to conserving its natural resources.

If you want to live surrounded by animals, spectacular views, and the pura vida; do not forget to contact our specialized advisors to learn about the best options throughout the country.