Cloud forests of Costa Rica
Costa Rica is located on a narrow part of the isthmus of Central America -- only Panama is narrower. A spiny ridge of mountains forms the continental divide. It is here that these forests are found.
Highland cloud forests are characterized by humidity of 100%. Some areas are swampy, while others are scored by deep gorges with streams running though them.
These cool uplands are places of astonishing biodiversity inhabited by jaguars, ocelots and tapirs as well as umbrella birds and quetzals.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve, altitude 1500 plus metres, contains varied forests that nurture vines, ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, as well as being home to a multitude of exotic birds. The three-wattled bell bird is pictured below, photo courtesy of Red Orbit.
