Programs
From wildlife conservation to environmental education, each initiative reflects our dedication to protecting Costa Rica’s biodiversity and inspiring future generations. Discover our programs and educational resources here!
Wildlife Conservation and Management
Our Wildlife Conservation and Management Program focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of wild animals, while ensuring a high quality of life for those who remain in our care.
Each year, we receive an average of 350 to 400 wild animals representing around 70 different species. These include psittacids, primates, felines, and other mammals such as coatis, raccoons, opossums, porcupines, and armadillos, as well as birds like owls, barn owls, hawks, and toucans.
Most of these animals come from the Guanacaste province and the Northern Zone, although some are brought in from other parts of the country.
Approximately 40% to 50% of the animals we receive are successfully rehabilitated and released back into their natural habitat. About 3% to 5% remain in the Sanctuary as permanent residents.
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Environmental Education
Our Environmental Education Program (EEP) is held within the Sanctuary grounds. Its goal is to educate visitors about the threats Costa Rican wildlife faces, using education as a powerful tool for conservation.
What does a visit to the Sanctuary include?
• Introductory Talk: During your visit, you will receive a brief introduction to learn about the work carried out in a wildlife rescue center.
• Guided Tour: Our Environmental Educator will lead you on a tour where you’ll meet all our resident animals. You’ll learn about their habitats, diets, fun facts, and most importantly, why they were rescued and why they couldn’t return to the wild.
• Visit to Doña Lilly’s Farm: You’ll get to visit our small farm, built in honor of one of our founders. Here, you can meet and interact with domestic animals like guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens, and even feed the goat and sheep.
• Interactive Activity: At the end of the tour, we offer a fun activity to reinforce what you’ve learned—whether it’s painting a wildlife mask, playing a Costa Rican animal bingo, or joining a sack race with wildlife-themed questions.
We do not have a restaurant on site, but you are welcome to bring a snack and enjoy it in our Environmental Education Classroom.
Educational Materials
In the following links, you can download and view some of the educational materials we have available and have lovingly created.
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RULES & RECOMMENDATIONS
To ensure the safety of our animals and visitors, please review the following:
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Do not touch, feed, or disturb the animals
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No flash photography
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Respect all safety railings and signs
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No pets allowed
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No smoking
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Do not bring food onto the trails
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Proper attire is required: no swimsuits or bare feet
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and water!