The Wildlife
Punta Mona is nestled on the edge of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and is home to an incredible ecosystem of jungle creatures. Couple that with the underwater world of the Caribbean and you’ve got a lot to see and explore.
We’ve begun mapping our biodiversity through the citizen science project, iNaturalist. Take a look at what’s been discovered so far and make additional discoveries during your stay.
Frogs and Toads
The red eyed tree frog gets the most attention, but Punta Mona is home to many amphibians large and small. Watch your step at night as they love to come out to eat insects.
Monkeys
You’ll likely hear them before you see them. Howler monkeys can be found living in our trees.
Turtles
Our beaches have been home to sea turtle nesting for generations. Sadly, the erosion caused by climate change has resulted in many of them seeking new grounds, but we’ll occasionally spot a Leatherback or Green Turtle on the beach. Roberto is helping protect a new Leatherback nest.
Butterflies
Our gardens have become a haven for butterflies year round. The Morphos catch the most attention, but there are dozens more to observe.
Birds
Our morning air is filled with the sounds of birds who’ve found our fruit forests to be an especially good place to call home. Humming Birds, Tucans, Parots, Birds of Prey, and countless others inhabit our land. Bring your binoculars for an up-close look.
Snakes
Dozens of different snakes live in our ecosystem. Most of them are friendly, however, there are a few to watch out for. A good reason to always carry your light at night.
Lizards
Of the many magical things you’ll experience at Puna Mona, one of them might be seeing a Basilisk run across the water. Iguanas also frequent our trees.
Insects
Most of them don’t bite, and are pretty spectacular when viewed up close. Vibrant colors and incredible evolutionary mechanisms make them especially fun to study here.
Coral
Coral is alive on our reef. Large brain is one of our favorites. Don’t touch though! Not only is it bad for the coral, many corals are toxic to humans.
Fish
Tropical fish big and small can be found off our shores. You’ll often find our neighbors fishing on the beach with handlines.
And so much more…
….Caimen, agouti, armadillos, anteaters, jungle cats, skunks, sloths, octopus, lobster, crabs, and three types of dolphins to name a few…