Central Valley, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries on earth. Simply put, there are more species of animals found within Costa Rica’s border than in any other similar-sized region on earth. This is saying a lot for such a small country. One of the main reasons this area boasts so many interesting species is because it forms a land bridge between North America and South America. Among the rainforest, one can observe jaguars and mountain lions, raccoons and capuchin monkeys, white-tailed deer and Biard’s tapirs. Due to the region’s climatic stability, many species have evolved to fill new niches to avoid competition. One such group of animals - known as herps (amphibians and reptiles) have evolved to live high in the treetops, along the ground, and underwater. There are roughly 400 species of herps found here, and each one is unique and has an incredible conservation story.
Justin Grubb with a Fer-de-lance snake. Photo by Tavo Murillo
Hiding amongst the leaf litter is this deadly predators strategy for ambushing prey. You can see how wonderfully it blends in with its brown and tan coloration. This highly venomous pit viper relies on camouflage to remain hidden on the forest floor in Costa Rica. This species feels fairly comfortable around people and often wanders near homes in search of easy prey such as rabbits, chickens, and cats. This species is important to the ecology of the forest and is often killed out of fear, adversely affecting the habitat surrounding them.
This individual was found near a home in the Central Vally and relocated safely so that the species can continue to live and contribute to the web of life. Upon release, we took the opportunity to snag a few photos.
Typically, the fer-de-lance injects about 105 mg of venom per bite but the record is 310 mg which was recorded while milking the species to create antivenin. It only takes around 50 mg of this species' venom to kill a human which is why it is the deadliest reptile in The America's. Their venom is a hemotoxin, meaning it attacks the red blood cells.
This is one of the coolest looking tree frogs I have ever seen. The blue sided leaf frog is a striking frog found in the Central Valley of Costa Rica. This vulnerable species of tree frog is only found only in the heart of Cost Rica and has animal has suffered from habitat loss through urbanization which acts to fragment populations. It is also challenged by the use of pesticides in agricultural fields and in home gardens.
Jardin De Lourde is an eco-resort located just outside San Jose yet boasts a healthy population of these frogs.