Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a Paradise for Migratory Birds
Caño Negro is an amazing natural refuge, considered by many scientists as the third most important wetland at a global level. It is home to a number of the world’s rare plant, animal and bird species.
It is located very close to the border of Nicaragua, in Alajuela province in the counties of Los Chiles and Guatuso. It is the habitat of many migrant and endangered fish, reptiles, birds and plants. Costa Rica car rental
A sweet water lagoon, Caño Negro has an extension of more than 800 hectares and is found between the Pacific lowland’s monsoonal climate and the Caribbean coastal area’s humid climate. It has high biological importance due to the wide variety of flora and fauna found here. The area is also an important migratory route for birds from the north. Over 200 species have been found here, as well as many endemic plants and animals. Rent a car in Costa Rica
Caño Negro was among the first national refuges to highlight the management of tourism activities with the biological resources of a region. It is a wonderful educational experience for all the visitors that come to the region.
During the rainy season from May to October, water from the mountains is plentiful and the Río Frío overflows its banks to form Lago Caño Negro. This lake is located in the middle of the flyway for migrant North and South American birds.
Therefore millions of birds arrive here to winter over during the dry season beginning in December. The water level falls gradually for the next three to four months until all that is left is the main channel of the Río Frío. This is when the migrant birds leave.
East of Los Chiles, the Río Medio Queso extends into a shallow wetland when rainfall is prolific. The region near the border is officially protected by the Corredor Fronterízo National Wildlife Refuge. The area is great for wildlife viewing.
This wildlife refuge shelters Emerald Basilisks, Giant Bear Ants, jaguars, ocelots, iguanas, river turtles, monkeys, pumas and caimans. It is inhabited by unusual birds such as northern jacanas, ibises, jabiru storks, anhingas, cormorants and roseate spoonbills.
The Río Frío has excellent fishing for snook, guapote, alligator gar, drum, and huge tarpon Fishing is permitted in the reserve from July 1 to March 31, you can get a license from the ranger station in Caño Negro village. Bear in mind that there may not be established high profile fishing guides operating, nevertheless if you round up a boat and provide most of your own tackle, Caño Negro is a great place to fish.
To get to Caño Negro, drive out north to Ciudad Quesada (San Carlos). From here, head to the village of Los Chiles and then on to this pretty wildlife refuge. You can also arrange a tour that leaves from La Fortuna de San Carlos next to Arenal Volcano.
Visit Caño Negro and admire is amazing wildlife!