Conservation in Costa Rica

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary helps rescue, rehab and release rescued wildlife

Veterinary team performing surgery on animal.
Who is Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern zone of Costa Rica, adjacent to the Savegre Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing native wildlife, including a variety of species such as sloths, monkeys, parrots, and toucans. The sanctuary aims to provide expert care to animals that have been injured, sick, or orphaned, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats whenever possible.

They also provide education awareness to stop the incessant electrocution of wildlife from uninsulated power wires as well as uncapped and unprotected power transformers.

SAFE Worldwide proudly partners with Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary

Young monkey perched on tree branch.

Rescue

The sanctuary rescues wildlife injured from vehicle collisions, power line electrocution, dog attacks, and orphaned wildlife. Some wildlife is also saved from the illegal exotic pet trade and illegal wildlife trafficking. The Sanctuary has rescued over 3500 animals to date!

Sloth drinking from a pink syringe.

Rehabilitation

Providing expert veterinary care, proper nutrition, and a safe, species-appropriate environment where they can recover both physically and emotionally. The sanctuary focuses on restoring each animal’s natural behaviors and survival skills, preparing them for the wild.

People examining tranquilized wild cat outdoors.

Release

Animals are released only when fully healthy and able to survive independently. Each release is carefully planned, selecting safe habitats within their natural range to maximize survival. This final step restores their freedom and helps protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity.

SAFE Worldwide is matching up to $3000
The Sanctuary is preparing to release a rehabilitated ocelot back into the wild — but they need a GPS collar to ensure they can track it and able to survive in the wild.
 
Without tracking, they don’t know if released animals make it, where they go, or what dangers they face. A GPS collar gives them life-saving data on its movement, survival, and habitat use.
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