|
|
 This
wildlife area is located on the pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the
province of Puntarenas. Its about one our drive from our hotel in Jaco Costa Rica. Located 157 km south of San José and 7 km south
of Quepos City. The park was created by Law No. 5100 on November 15,
1972.The
park is comprised of 682.7 hectares land and 55.000 hectares of coastal
waters
Manuel Antonio National Park is a small biological island.
Manuel Antonio is one of the most beautiful national parks in all of
C.R.. Another important attribute are the humid tropical forests, where
flora and wildlife species, endanger of extinction, may be found.
A geomorphic characteristic of the park is the Punta
Cathedral. In the past this was an island. Because of sediment
accumulation it has joined to the continental mass, forming a sandy band
called Tombolo.
The park is located in a region of great precipitation and
high peaks. The annual precipitation averages 3.875 mm. Summer months
are January, February and March; and the winter months are August,
September and October.
Manuel Antonio National Park is located in the humid
tropical forest zone. Protected areas include primary forest, secondary
forest, beach vegetation and sea environments.
Species of flora that are most commonly found in the
primary forest are Guácimo Colorado, Pilón, Cedro María, Guapinol,
Guapinol Negro, the endangered Arbol Maderable, Lechoso, Madrono,
Cenizaro and Ceiba. In the secondary forest, you may find Balsa, Peine
de Mico, Guarumo, Guácimo, Capulín Blanco and Garocho. Manglar covers
approximate 18 hectares, is constituted by three species: mangle
colorado, botoncillo and mariquita. Amongst the beach vegetation, you
will notice the Manzanillo Tree, the milk and fruit of which is
extremely poisonous. Other species of trees found along the beaches are
the Almendro, the Roble Sabana and the Coco Tree.
A plethora of wildlife may be found in the park.
You can find 109 species of mammals and over 184 of birds here. Among
the most import, are the Raccoon, Porcupine, Guatusa, 2-Finger Sloth,
3-Finger Sloth, Capuchin Monkey, Congo Monkey and the Squirrel Monkey,
endanger of extinction from the destruction of their habitats and pet
trade. |
|
