Discover how this inspiring rescue center saves toucans, sloths, and other rainforest animals — and how you can help.
Tucked away in the lush hills of San Isidro de Heredia, the Toucan Rescue Ranch is a sanctuary for some of Costa Rica’s most fascinating and vulnerable wildlife. While it began as a haven for injured toucans, today it’s home to a diverse range of species, including sloths, owls, monkeys, and exotic parrots. If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation or planning a Costa Rican adventure, this remarkable rescue center deserves a top spot on your itinerary.
Here are 10 incredible facts about the Toucan Rescue Ranch — and why supporting them makes a difference for Costa Rica’s wild creatures.
1. It Started With a Single Toucan
Toucan Rescue Ranch was founded in 2004 by Leslie Howle after she rescued a toucan named Grecia, whose beak had been severely damaged. What began as a one-bird mission has grown into a fully licensed wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center.
2. It’s Not Just for Toucans
Despite the name, the center provides care for over 200 animals from 50 species, including two- and three-toed sloths, kinkajous, owls, parrots, ocelots, and monkeys.
3. Toucan Rescue Ranch Specializes in Sloth Rescue and Rehabilitation
The ranch is famous for its sloth program, which helps orphaned and injured sloths return to the wild. The team teaches baby sloths how to climb, forage, and thrive independently before their release.
4. Home of the Sloth Release Site
Toucan Rescue Ranch operates a protected release site in Sarapiquí, a remote rainforest area where rehabilitated sloths and other animals can safely return to their natural habitat.
5. Grecia the Toucan Became a Global Star
Grecia made international headlines when she received a 3D-printed prosthetic beak after a traumatic injury. Her story raised awareness about wildlife mistreatment and the importance of animal rescue centers in Central America.
6. Toucan Rescue Ranch Offers Educational Tours and Experiences
Visitors can book guided tours, meet resident animals, and learn about wildlife conservation. Special photography tours and behind-the-scenes experiences allow guests to capture unforgettable memories.
7. They Operate a Wildlife Ambulance
The ranch responds to emergency calls for injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife throughout Costa Rica, often rescuing animals hit by cars, electrocuted by power lines, or illegally kept as pets.
8. Funded Entirely by Donations and Eco-Tourism
Toucan Rescue Ranch relies on generous donations, sponsorships, and visitor tours to fund its operations, animal care, and release programs. Every tour, adoption, and contribution helps save a life.
9. They Have an Adopt-an-Animal Program
Supporters worldwide can symbolically adopt resident animals like sloths, owls, and toucans. Adopters receive an adoption certificate, animal biography, and updates about their chosen animal.
10. You Can Stay Overnight at the Toucan Rescue Ranch
For an unforgettable experience, guests can book jungle lodge stays on-site. Wake up to the calls of parrots, monkeys, and toucans while supporting conservation efforts with every overnight stay.
The Toucan Rescue Ranch is a shining example of how passion, community support, and wildlife education can save lives and protect endangered species. Whether you’re visiting Costa Rica or cheering from afar, there are countless ways to get involved.
Support the ranch today by booking a tour, adopting an animal, or donating to their life-saving programs. Every action helps write a new chapter for Costa Rica’s wildlife.
Visit their official website at toucanrescueranch.org to learn more and get involved.