San Jose Zoo in Costa Rica
The Parque Zoologio Nacional Simon Bolivar showcases the abundant animal life that can be found in Costa Rica. The San Jose zoo in Costa Rica can be found in Barrio Amon, a historical place nestled in a forested ravine. The animals can be viewed while visiting this zoo composed of gardens and tree-lined paths.
The zoo is modest in scope compared to other zoos around the world. It is almost 6 acres in total area and 50 species of wildlife including some very exotic creatures call it home. Visitors here on vacation should spend some time visiting the Zoo in Costa Rica.
The Simon Bolivar National Zoo and Botanical Garden is named after the South American freedom fighter General Simon Bolivar. The zoo has been in existence since July 1921. Josefinos, which the residents of San Jose are called are provided with a place to spend an interesting weekend with a zoo in their midst. It has been the park’s original intention to shelter and protect animal species which are endangered. It is a safe haven for the animals where scientific research can be conducted. Another of its goals is to educate the population about environmental issues while providing urban families with an alternative recreational destination.
The zoo originated from the original plans of the “Garden of Plants and Animals Institute of Costa Rica.” This has been founded by Henry Pittier Prommond in 1884 situated near the Liceo de Costa Rica. The site had to be moved because residents began complaining about the noise made by all the animals at the facility. It has been moved northwest of San Antonio near Barrio Otoya.
The zoo got neglected over the years by government agencies that were tasked to oversee its operations. It is now part of the Fundazoo project. Efforts have been made to upgrade the zoo’s facilities. There have been education programs involving the zoo’s wildlife. The zoo has been transformed from an animal prison to a center where public awareness and education about wildlife are offered. Tutorial exhibits are featured within the park, offered both in English and Spanish. It is a zoo in Costa Rica that is undergoing intense efforts to preserve the beauty of it.
Even with all the improvements, there are still public outcries which continue to criticize the zoo’s management and the small animal enclosures especially for the lion and lioness. The lack of proper signage also caused some public criticisms.
Visitors staying in Hotel Costa Rica will find that this zoo is very close by. There are cheeky white faced monkeys in the zoo. There are also a wide array of bird species including toucans, eagles, cranes and Parrots all exhibited in enclosures made to resemble their natural habitat. Big cats and small cats abound in the zoo, including the lions and jaguars which are favorites of the children and even adults.
Of the reptiles, there are crocodiles, turtles and a number of lizards. There are also raccoons, marsupials and other rodents that make for interesting photos. The zoo tries to offer something new to the public every year. Improvements are constantly being made to the zoos facilities, like upgrading the cages.
In line with the mission of the Simon Bolivar National Zoo to preserve the indigenous animal species native to Costa Rica, there are local animals being kept in the zoo which people do not find in the country’s wilderness anymore. The Costa Rican Condo is a great place to stay and visit the zoo during your Costa Rica vacation.
