Primary forests are rare, irreplaceable ecosystems. Regenerating naturally, these areas remain largely untouched by human activity and sustain full ecological function. Among tropical forests, they are the most biodiverse and the most vital.

Costa Rica has led the world in reforestation, restoring forest cover to 76%. Yet only 24% remains primary, with the largest patch here in the Southern Caribbean. These forests form the Talamanca Biological Corridor, connecting habitats and protecting 60% of Costa Rica’s wildlife.

The devastating loss of primary forest is at the root of wildlife rescue. Without intact ecosystems, there is no safe place to return animals to.

La Ceiba is one of Costa Rica’s last remaining primary forests. It is not only a sanctuary for wildlife, but a living system that supports climate regulation, carbon capture, water cycles, and 80% of Earth’s land species.

Since 2014, the Jaguar Rescue Center has worked to acquire and protect land within La Ceiba. This land offers more than shelter; it provides the ecological integrity that rehabilitated wildlife need to survive.

Since 2018, we’ve released 368 animals into La Ceiba, including endangered species such as the Puma (Puma concolor), Spider Monkey (Ateles geoffroyi), and Central American Bushmaster (Lachesis stenophrys). Migratory raptors, amphibians, reptiles, and countless other native species rely on this forest for food, shelter, and safe passage.

But human pressure is growing. Post-pandemic migration, deforestation, land-use changes, pollution, and wildlife injuries are rising fast. La Ceiba is under threat.

The survival of Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife and the future of biodiversity in the region depends on protecting La Ceiba and Costa Rica’s remaining primary forests.

Protecting primary forest means protecting life. Help us protect La Ceiba for the beloved animals, for us and for our planet.