Costa Rica is home to four native monkey species: Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, Capuchin Monkeys, and Squirrel Monkeys. Squirrel Monkeys inhabit only a small region on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, so the Jaguar Rescue Center provides care and rehabilitation for the other three species.
Geoffroy’s Spider Monkey, known scientifically as Ateles geoffroyi, thrives on a high-energy diet and has evolved to become the largest, strongest, and most intelligent among New World monkeys.
The Mantled Howler Monkey, Alouatta palliata, is the most commonly seen and heard species on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Recognized for thunderous vocalizations, this monkey holds the title of loudest land animal and often signals the start of the day with early morning calls.
The White-Faced Capuchin Monkey, Cebus imitator, demonstrates high intelligence and energetic behavior. This species is among the few primates observed using tools to forage and access food.
Why Monkeys Arrive at the Center Many monkeys arrive at the Jaguar Rescue Center after experiencing harm caused by human activity. Common causes include electrocution from uninsulated power lines, dog attacks, road accidents, habitat destruction, and confiscation from the illegal pet trade. In Costa Rica, keeping native wild animals as pets is prohibited by law.
Innovative Rehabilitation Founder Encar Garcia Vila, a trained biologist and experienced primatologist, has worked closely with primates for decades. Since arriving in Costa Rica in the early 2000s, her hands-on care and attentive observation of howler monkeys and other native species led to the development of an innovative rehabilitation program. Grounded in the monkeys’ natural rhythms and developmental stages, the program helps individuals regain the physical and social skills essential for survival in the wild.
Elementary School At three to four months of age, wild monkeys begin exploring independently while remaining close to the troop. At the center, young monkeys spend up to fifty hours each week in a forested area near the facility. This time in the canopy allows for movement, foraging, and social interaction—skills necessary for life in the wild.
High School Orphaned monkeys typically remain in the program for two to three years, reaching sexual maturity and developing the instinct to seek independence. The program honors this timing, allowing each monkey to choose when to leave and begin life beyond the center.
Releasing Monkeys into the Wild Deforestation and development have fragmented monkey populations, resulting in isolated gene pools. To support biodiversity, rehabilitated monkeys are released at the La Ceiba release station, part of a vital biological corridor. This approach allows for post-release monitoring and contributes to species resilience. All released monkeys are microchipped so we can monitor them post-release, and recognize individuals if they come back to the JRC.
Release days are emotional for staff and volunteers. Like a parent saying goodbye to a child beginning a new chapter, the team sends each monkey off with pride, knowing that the forest offers the best chance for a thriving future.
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