Saturday, February 16
Ever since we arrived we have talked about getting up before sunrise and getting out for a walk in time to catch the awakening of the Howler Monkeys. There is a small troop of these monkeys that live in the Las Palmas area and are often seen in the trees between Las Palmas and the beach. Today, we made it up at 5:00 am and were out walking by 5:30.
As we walked, we began to hear the low, guttural howls of the monkeys, and we followed the sounds to a wide path between the road and the beach where, with a little concentration we were able to see, as well as hear, the monkeys. Altogether, this troop of monkeys appears to number seven. There are at least three big males and also a female with baby. The sounds of the Howlers, in the early morning, mixes with the sounds of roosters, doves, other birds, and even a howling dog.
Bob shot a video of this scene. The monkeys are way up in the trees and can be well-camoflaged. Watch for movement in the trees and eventually you will see them.
Howler Monkeys, Playas del Coco, Costa Rica. (Photo by Bob)
A short way down the alley from where we stood to watch the monkeys, we spotted a huge pig that was tethered to a wall. The pig belongs to a Tico home across the alley. This family also raises chickens which roam free all over the neighborhood and can also be heard on the monkey video. Notice the fire smoldering in the background. It is common for people to burn leaves and other vegetative trash whenever they wish - evidently no permit needed.
El Cerdo - The Pig, Playas del Coco, Costa Rica. (Photo by Bob)
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