Page 89 - NORTHERN GUANACASTE TOURIST GUIDE

Iguanita Wildlife Refuge
Some 67 marine species have been recorded in the Iguanita National Wildlife Refuge, including some of commercial interest such as snapper, lobster and cambute, 110 species of birds such as the common black hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus), the orange- fronted parakeet (Aratinga canicularis) and the clay-colored thrush (Turdus grayi), 27% of which are migratory, as well as 10 species of terrestrial mammals such as howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and the black spiny-tailed iguana (Ctenosaura similis), as well as other iguana species and a wide variety of snakes, including threatened and endangered species. The presence of these species underscores the recommendations for increased protection efforts in the area in the long term. In terms of the flora, some 118 species of trees and shrubs have been recorded, including the jobo (Spondias mombin), indio desnudo (Bursera simaruba), ronrón (Astronium fraxinifolium) and the tea mangrove (Pelliciera rhizophorae).
In addition, the Iguanita National Wildlife Refuge is interested in protecting, preserving and using its pre- Hispanic cultural resources in its natural environment. These cultural resources were fundamental components in the social, economic and religious network that linked over 65 pre-Hispanic villages and towns around Culebra Bay with those of the Tempisque Valley and the Cordillera de Guanacaste, and which must be protected and conserved in accordance with the National Archeological Heritage Law.
The refuge is located within the Gulf of Papagayo Tourist Pole, an area of great beauty and with diverse natural and cultural resources. The result is a greater social interest and concern for conserving the environment while also ensuring permanent access and the right of all Costa Ricans to enjoy Playa Iguanita, especially the inhabitants of Guanacaste, since most people from the region are unable to afford a stay in the major tourist developments.
The Iguanita National Wildlife Refuge does not have any amenities for the public. Other nearby parks include the Costa Esmeralda National Wildlife
Refuge, Las Baulas National Marine Park and Santa Rosa National Park.
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