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Tapirs Return: Once-Cattle Land Now a Biodiversity Hotspot
7 Oct
Summary
- Former cattle ranch now a vibrant nature reserve near Tenorio Volcano.
- Restoration efforts created a diverse habitat for numerous species.
- A tiny, undocumented tree frog was discovered in the reserve.
A former cattle ranch in northern Costa Rica has been revitalized into the Tapir Valley Nature Reserve, becoming a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. Adjacent to Tenorio Volcano National Park, the reserve has transformed over the past decade from grazing land into a vibrant ecosystem. Intensive restoration efforts, beginning in 2016, involved removing cattle, planting trees, and revitalizing a lagoon.
The result is a mosaic of forest, wetlands, and regenerating pasture. This varied landscape supports a rich array of species, including Baird's tapirs, over 440 bird species, and more than 50 species of frogs and reptiles. The reserve, now encompassing 220 hectares, is also known for the discovery of a tiny, undocumented tree frog species.
Tapir Valley is poised to become a crucial link in a proposed biological corridor connecting Tenorio National Park with larger forested areas. This initiative, supported by the Walker Foundation and slated for 2026, aims to facilitate wildlife movement and enhance conservation efforts in the region.
