What We Do

Mammal Rescue and Rehabilitation

Mammals in Costa Rica face a wide range of threats, including dog and cat attacks, electrocution from power lines, habitat destruction, illegal trafficking, and road accidents. Many arrive at the Jaguar Rescue Center as orphaned babies. Our work spans marsupials, procyonids, wild cats, rodents, and other small mammals, each requiring species-specific care and rehabilitation. Through outreach and guided visits, the center helps shift public perception of mammals — from pests or curiosities to vital ecological partners. (Xenarthrans 51% total mammals, primates 13% total mammals, lagomorphs 1%)

Marsupials (18% total mammals)

Though often misunderstood, opossums are clean, solitary animals that play an important ecological role as scavengers and insectivores. These nocturnal mammals are resilient and adaptable, but their slow movements and ground foraging habits make them vulnerable in urban and semi-urban areas.

  •  Common Opossum
  •  Central American Woolly Opossum
  •  Four-Eyed Opossum
  •  Mouse Opossum

Procyonids (10% total mammals)

Procyonids frequently arrive electrocuted or orphaned, and occasionally healthy individuals are relocated from dens in unsafe areas. These curious, intelligent mammals are often misunderstood. Their dexterity and nocturnal habits bring them into conflict with humans, especially in areas with unsecured trash or fruit trees.

  •  Northern Raccoon
  •  Crab Eating Raccoon
  •  Kinkajou
  •  Coati
  •  Olingo
other mammals jrc

mammals in puerto viejo limon
wildlife mammals in limon puerto viejo

mammals in costa rica

wildlife mammals in costa rica

Wild Cats (2% total mammals)

All six wild cat species in Costa Rica are endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and illegal trafficking. Most individuals arrive at the center after being confiscated from captivity. These elusive predators require specialized enclosures and minimal human contact during rehabilitation. Whenever possible, they are released into protected areas with suitable prey and cover.

  •  Margay
  •  Ocelot
  •  Jaguarundi
  •  Puma

Mustelids (1% total mammals)

Mustelids such as the Greater Grison and Tayra are typically admitted after being hit by cars or found orphaned. These agile mammals are fast-moving and solitary, making rehabilitation complex.

Rodents (9% total mammals)

Rodents arrive after falling from trees, being attacked by domestic animals, or found as orphans. These species play essential roles in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Their rehabilitation includes physical recovery and preparation for safe release into biodiverse habitats.

  •  Squirrels
  •  Agoutis
  •  Pacas

Others (4% total mammals)

The center also receives a variety of other mammals, each treated with the goal of reintroduction whenever possible.

  •  Deer: Often arrive after being hunted, hit by cars, or confiscated from illegal captivity
  •  Rabbits: Typically kept as pets or attacked by cats
  •  Bats: We care for all bat species—adults injured by predators or illness, and orphaned pups requiring specialized feeding and flight conditioning

Rehabilitation and Release

Each mammal undergoes a tailored rehabilitation plan based on species, age, and condition. Enclosures mimic natural habitats, and care routines honor the animal’s rhythms and instincts. Release sites are chosen for safety, biodiversity, and minimal human interference.

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