Covid 19 Emergency Appeal

With the ongoing global lockdown, it is a difficult time for everyone around the world and Costa Rica is no exception. As always our top priority is the safety of our staff and the wildlife in our care. So far, the team and animals are safe and healthy, but we are being extra vigilant. The strict biosecurity measures that we already have in place to protect everyone at the refuge have now been extended to include a deep clean of the facility several times a day and restricting access to essential staff only.

Research has shown that howlers are susceptible to some viruses that also affect humans, however, there is no evidence that the howlers can transmit these viruses back to humans. Our main concern is the possibility of transmission of the COVID-19 viral infection from people to the vulnerable howler monkeys in our care. Sadly, many of the monkeys in our rehabilitation facility have suffered from horrible electrocution injuries from uninsulated power lines and are therefore already extremely vulnerable. We must take all precautions possible to ensure their safety.

50% of the funding for the rescue center comes from educational visits and tourism, which we have had to suspend for the foreseeable future. This is obviously putting a significant financial strain on the work that we do. But we cannot stop working, the animals depend on us.

Please help us to continue to operate during this difficult time!

Despite the current challenges, the IAR Costa Rica Refuge for Wildlife rescue team are still responding to monkey electrocutions and other wildlife emergencies. Our incredible animal care teams are also as busy as ever looking after our resident wildlife.

Injured howlers are given round the clock treatment and care in our clinic. As soon as they are deemed fit enough, adult animals are returned to the jungle, while infant howler monkeys and other young animals are raised in the Refuge’s nursery in preparation for the animals’ return to the wild.

If you are in a position to help us, please make a donation so we can continue to provide the very best care for our wildlife throughout this pandemic.

Thank you for your support.

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