Costa Rica

VIDA and the Caño Negro Wetlands

The Caño Negro Wetlands, declared a 'Ramsar Site' by the International Convention of Wetlands, supports a large and varying community of wildlife, especially migratory birds. There have been some 307 sightings of various species of birds, 50 of which are aquatic and therefore reliant solely on the wetland for both food and habitat. Many of the mammals found in the area, such as the Ocelot, Puma, Baird's Tapir, Giant Anteater and the Spider Monkey, are classified by the IUCN as Threatened and Vulnerable Species.

Increasing pressure is being placed on the wetlands and surrounding forests due to local farming practices. Grazing practices and the use of agrochemicals are severely affecting the sensitive ecosystem. With little conservation education, the area is suffering from rapid deforestation and erosion. With VIDA we are helping to improve the situation, for both people and wildlife.

With funding from FOC, reforestation work is now underway with plans to plant 10,000 indigenous seedlings.