Discovery Series Ornament – Costa Rica
The Starbucks Discovery Series Ornament Costa Rica highlights the extraordinary wildlife and landscapes of this small Central American country. Costa Rica became independent from Spain in 1821 and is known today for its commitment to protecting its natural environment. Despite covering only a small part of the world’s land surface, the country contains tropical rainforests, cloud forests, volcanoes, beaches, and an exceptional variety of wildlife, much of it protected within national parks and reserves.
– The Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most recognizable natural landmarks. Rising to 5,358 feet, the nearly symmetrical volcano was extremely active for decades following a major eruption in 1968. Its activity has since decreased significantly, but Arenal and the surrounding national park remain among the country’s most popular destinations.
– The colorful toucans are among the birds most readily associated with Costa Rica’s tropical forests. Several species live in the country, including the keel-billed toucan, recognizable by its large multicolored bill. Toucans feed primarily on fruit but also eat insects and other small animals.
– The figure beside the country name appears to represent hiking, one of the best ways to experience Costa Rica’s remarkable variety of landscapes. Trails cross rainforest, cloud forest, volcanic terrain, and coastal areas, with national parks providing access to many of the country’s most impressive natural environments.
– Surfing is closely associated with Costa Rica’s long Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. Beaches such as Tamarindo, Jacó, Santa Teresa, and Puerto Viejo attract surfers with warm water and waves suitable for different experience levels. The sport has become such an important part of the country’s identity that Costa Rica officially declared surfing a matter of public and national interest.
– The green sea turtle represents Costa Rica’s important nesting beaches and marine ecosystems. Several species of sea turtle come ashore along the country’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts, with places such as Tortuguero particularly famous for nesting green turtles. Protecting these nesting areas has become an important part of Costa Rica’s conservation efforts.
