Costa Rica hosts 147 snake species, with only 26 considered venomous. Thanks to world-leading antivenom research at the University of Costa Rica, the country maintains a human mortality rate of less than two percent from an average of 300 bites per year.

Despite their ecological importance, snakes are often misunderstood. Myths and fear have led to widespread avoidance and violence. We receive daily calls to relocate snakes found in homes, gardens, or beneath buildings—sometimes injured by machetes or other tools. These animals are not aggressive; they are defensive. Respecting their space is key to safe coexistence.

Two crocodilian species live in Costa Rica’s waters: the Spectacled Caiman, Caiman crocodilus, and the American Crocodile, Crocodylus acutus. The latter can reach up to six meters in length and weigh up to 900 kilograms, making them the second largest crocodile species in the world.

Encounters with these reptiles were once rare, but habitat loss has increased human contact. Each year, we receive more calls to assist with relocation or care for injured individuals. Sadly, some crocodilians are also hunted for body parts, based on unfounded beliefs in their medicinal or aphrodisiacal value.

Green Iguanas make up the majority of our reptile admissions. Many arrive with injuries from hunting, dog attacks, or road accidents. Iguanas are hunted for both meat and eggs. Hunters may use slingshots or machetes, and in some cases, tendons from the animal’s own limbs are used to bind the body for transport.

During nesting season, adult sea turtles face brutal poaching methods. They may be harpooned offshore or attacked while laying eggs on the beach—flipped, stabbed, and restrained with ropes threaded through puncture wounds in their flippers. Turtle eggs are considered a delicacy and are frequently stolen.

We care for Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbill Turtles, Loggerhead and Leatherbacks. Each species faces distinct threats and requires specialized treatment and rehabilitation.

River Turtles often arrive after being confiscated from the pet trade or injured by vehicles or dogs. Their care includes wound treatment, habitat assessment, and, when possible, release into safe environments.