Zoo Ave | Alajuela

Zoo Ave (also known as Ave del Paraíso or the Bird of Paradise Zoo) is a wildlife rescue center and sanctuary located in La Garita, in the Alajuela Province, Costa Rica. It is renowned for its work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and conserving a wide variety of native animal species, particularly birds. The zoo’s primary mission is to provide a safe haven for injured, orphaned, or illegally trafficked animals, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild when possible. Zoo Ave also serves as an educational center to raise awareness about the importance of protecting Costa Rica’s biodiversity.

Overview:

• Name: Zoo Ave (Ave del Paraíso)
• Location: La Garita, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, approximately 30 minutes from San José.
• Established: 1994
• Type: Wildlife rescue center, rehabilitation, and sanctuary
• Area: The sanctuary spans 7.5 hectares (18.5 acres), featuring a mix of tropical forest and open-air enclosures.
• Mission: To rescue and rehabilitate wildlife, educate the public on conservation, and preserve the natural habitats of Costa Rica’s native species.

Key Features:

1. Bird Sanctuary:

• Zoo Ave is particularly well-known for its collection of Costa Rican and Central American birds. It is home to over 150 species of birds, including many endangered and vulnerable species.
• Visitors can see a wide variety of birds, including macaws, toucanets, parrots, hummingbirds, and the Resplendent Quetzal.
• The sanctuary also focuses on the rehabilitation of scarlet macaws, one of the most iconic and endangered species in Costa Rica. The center is actively involved in efforts to help repopulate this species by releasing rehabilitated macaws back into the wild.

2. Wildlife Rehabilitation:

• The center plays a crucial role in rescuing animals from illegal wildlife trafficking, poaching, and habitat destruction. Zoo Ave cares for a variety of animals, including monkeys, sloths, reptiles, mammals, and amphibians.
• Animals that cannot be released back into the wild due to injury or other factors are provided with permanent care at the sanctuary.
• The zoo has a rehabilitation center where injured or sick animals are treated, and many animals are later released into their natural habitats once they are well enough to survive on their own.

3. Education and Conservation:

• Zoo Ave’s educational programs are designed to teach visitors, especially school groups and children, about the importance of wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and the challenges faced by endangered species.
• The center offers informative guided tours that explain the rescue efforts, rehabilitation processes, and the ecological role of the animals at the sanctuary.
• Visitors are encouraged to support conservation efforts through donations and to raise awareness about the issues surrounding illegal wildlife trade and deforestation.

4. Wildlife Exhibits:

• Zoo Ave features well-designed enclosures that mimic the animals’ natural habitats as much as possible. Visitors can walk through the sanctuary, enjoying the sights and sounds of the forest while observing the animals in a more natural environment.
• In addition to birds, the sanctuary houses a variety of mammals, including monkeys (like the white-faced capuchin), sloths, coatis, and armadillos.
• Visitors can also see reptiles, such as iguana species, and frogs, along with some smaller amphibians.

Activities and Attractions:

1. Guided Tours:

• Zoo Ave offers guided tours to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the animals and the conservation efforts at the sanctuary.
• The guides share insights into the behavior of the animals, their ecological importance, and the challenges they face in the wild. These tours are available in both Spanish and English.

2. Birdwatching:

• The sanctuary is an ideal place for birdwatching enthusiasts. The lush tropical environment and variety of bird species make it a haven for nature lovers.
• Visitors can spot a wide range of birds, from brightly colored toucans to scarlet macaws and white-tailed trogons.

3. Photographic Opportunities:

• The zoo provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, especially of birds, monkeys, and sloths. The vibrant colors of the birds and the lush environment make it an ideal spot for photographers.

4. Educational Workshops:

• Zoo Ave also hosts workshops on various topics related to wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable practices.
• These workshops are great for school groups, families, and anyone interested in learning more about Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife and the challenges they face.

Visitor Information:

1. Hours:

• Zoo Ave is generally open every day from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It’s recommended to check the official website for up-to-date hours, especially during holidays or special events.

2. Admission:

• There is an admission fee to visit the zoo, with discounts for children, students, and Costa Rican residents. International visitors pay a standard entrance fee.
• The entrance fee helps support the rehabilitation and conservation efforts at the sanctuary.

3. Accessibility:

• The zoo is wheelchair accessible, with paths and trails designed for visitors with mobility challenges. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so it’s a good idea to check in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.

Nearby Attractions:

• Poás Volcano National Park: A short drive from Zoo Ave, this active volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most famous natural landmarks and offers beautiful hiking trails and views of the crater.
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens: Another nearby attraction, La Paz Waterfall Gardens features stunning waterfalls, wildlife, and lush forest trails.
• Costa Rica Coffee Tours: Many coffee tours are located in the region, offering visitors the opportunity to explore coffee plantations and learn about Costa Rican coffee culture.

Tips for Visiting:

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The zoo is set in a lush, tropical environment, so wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on trails and uneven ground.
2. Bring Sunscreen and Water: The weather in Costa Rica can be hot, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay hydrated.
3. Take a Guided Tour: To fully appreciate the conservation work and learn about the animals, a guided tour is highly recommended.
4. Support Conservation: Consider making a donation or purchasing souvenirs from the zoo’s gift shop to support the sanctuary’s rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

Why Visit?

Zoo Ave offers an engaging and educational experience for those interested in wildlife conservation and animal rescue. With its focus on rescuing and rehabilitating Costa Rica’s native species, the sanctuary provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by wildlife in the region. Whether you're a birdwatching enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to learn more about Costa Rica’s diverse fauna, Zoo Ave is an excellent place to connect with the country's natural beauty and conservation efforts.