A biological corridor is a territory whose purpose is to provide ecological connectivity between natural areas, landscapes, ecosystems, natural or modified habitats (rural or urban), to ensure the conservation of biodiversity, ecological and evolutionary processes.
Los Cusingos Bird Refuge is located in the Alexander Skutch Biological Corridor, which seeks to maintain the ecological connectivity of this reserve with Chirripó National Park. The COBAS covers an area of 6000 hectares, with an altitudinal range from 700 to 1,800 meters above sea level, it is crossed by the Peñas Blancas River, and has a great diversity of species, ecosystems, and landscapes.
It was created to protect and recover the biodiversity of the Seasonal Evergreen Tropical Forest, a type of vegetation that is only protected in Los Cusingos Wildlife Refuge. It is characterized by many endemic species (found only in this place) of orchids, amphibians and birds.
Environmental education
Through the Environmental Education Coalition for the Alexander Skutch Biological Corridor, the Asada de Santa Elena, the Casita Azul Library of the University of York, and Los Cusingos Bird Refuge of the Tropical Science Center work together. The main objective of this coalition is to train the adult population of the 7 communities that make up the COBAS, in topics of interest such as sustainable agriculture, ecological tourism, and marketing. We also work with school children in environmental talks and activities.
Culture (festivals)
COBAS is characterized for being a territory made up of rural communities dedicated to agriculture surrounded by beautiful natural areas. This has meant that in addition to having a strong rural culture, a culture of love for nature and sustainable development has also been promoted in their communities.
Thus, every year in March the Migratory Bird Festival is celebrated, in May the Birthday of Alexander Skutch and in June the Environmental Festival.
Where to go?
The COBAS is characterized by a unique combination of natural and cultural attractions. The Peñas Blancas River connects its main natural areas, Las Nubes Biological Reserve and Los Cusingos Bird Refuge. Around them, in a rural landscape that still preserves the petroglyphs of the pre-Columbian civilizations that occupied this territory, its current inhabitants develop traditional agricultural activities with coffee, sugar cane, cocoa and a great variety of natural and unique products.
If you wish to connect your visit to Los Cusingos Bird Refuge with COBAS we offer the following experiences designed for your enjoyment.