Basic Information
A spectacular corner of the earth...
Much of Costa Rica’s great biodiversity is due to its history as an archipelago and its forming a land bridge millions of years ago between the two rich landmasses of North and South America. This formation of Costa Rica--coupled with many factors such as minimal seasonal differences, high precipitation, varied temperatures, contrasting geography, variations in elevation, and mineral-rich volcanic soils--have enabled Costa Rica to have many and diverse habitats supporting rich biodiversity. In addition, the influence of both oceans has fostered development of species endemic to this area and has permitted great ecological richness within the territory.
Lying in the remote rainforest of the northern Osa Peninsula, the Campanario Biological Station is proud to support many of the diverse habitats, both terrestrial and marine, needed for the wide array of flora and fauna. There are several kilometers of trails weaving through primary and secondary forests with lush vegetation, including over 120 different tree species identified within Campanario itself.
The faunal biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula, of Corcovado, and of Campanario is impressive: mammals - at least 124 species (of which 58 are bats), reptiles - 71 species, amphibians - 46 species, birds - 375 species (of which 18 are endemic), fresh water fish – 61 species, and insects – approximately 8,000 species. Many of these species are rare or endangered and include: tapir, spider monkey, tayra, jaguar, puma, white-lipped peccary, pilot whale, hump-back whale, scarlet macaw, black cheeked ant tanager, and chestnut-mandibled toucan, among others.
Click here for species inventories.
The Campanario Biological Station has three permanent streams and a beautiful coastline with 4 small pristine beaches, clear warm surf and several rocky points, one of which is known as Campanario Point (or Punta Campanario in Spanish), protecting the small cove which serves as the gateway to the Station.
The mean daily temperature at the Field Station is 24-25 C (75-77 F). An average year sees 4-5 meters of rainfall, making Campanario one of the wettest areas in Costa Rica (and the world).
