The Costa Rican National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) has called on authorities and the public to adopt zero tolerance toward the illegal trafficking of sloths, a practice that threatens one of the country’s most emblematic wildlife species. The organization emphasized the importance of strengthening protection measures and raising awareness about the impact of the illegal wildlife trade.
Sloths, widely associated with Costa Rica’s biodiversity and tourism appeal, are often victims of illegal trafficking, particularly when they are captured to be kept as pets or used in unregulated tourist activities.
A protected and vulnerable species
Two species of sloths are mainly found in Costa Rica: the three-toed sloth (Bradypus variegatus) and the two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni), both protected under national legislation that prohibits their capture, trade, or possession as pets.
According to the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), illegal wildlife trafficking represents a significant threat to the country’s biodiversity. These institutions work to protect species and enforce laws against environmental crimes related to the capture and illegal trade of animals.
Costa Rica is home to nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity, making it especially important to maintain monitoring and protection systems to prevent the illegal exploitation of wildlife species.
Impact on conservation and tourism
Nature tourism is one of the pillars of Costa Rica’s economy, and responsible wildlife observation is a central part of the experience for many visitors.
According to the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), the country’s natural richness and the opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat are key factors that attract international tourists. Illegal wildlife trafficking can negatively affect this image and threaten the ecosystems that support the tourism industry.
CANATUR has highlighted that protecting wildlife also means protecting the natural heritage that supports sustainable tourism development in Costa Rica.
Call for reporting and environmental awareness
Authorities and tourism organizations have reiterated the importance of reporting any activity related to the illegal capture or commercialization of wildlife. Cooperation between citizens, tourists, businesses, and authorities is essential to combat this type of crime.
Environmental institutions also promote educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of respecting wildlife and avoiding interactions with animals outside their natural environment.
Strengthening surveillance and environmental education are considered essential elements to preserve Costa Rica’s biodiversity and ensure the protection of emblematic species such as the sloth.
Official sources consulted
Costa Rican National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR)
Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE)
National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC)
Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT)
CRHoy – “CANATUR pide cero tolerancia ante tráfico ilegal de perezosos”