Introduction

       My purpose for producing this blog is as follows: Firstly, based on the main theme of my blog "The Natural Wonders of Costa Rica", I plan on producing videos of some of the National Parks and private nature reserves throughout the Country that will provide the viewer with an idea of what they can see. Secondly, over the years that I have been here in Costa Rica (>25 yrs.), I have included a section containing a selection of over 200 photos related to the natural environment. Lastly, I wish to include discussions concerning a means of leading a healthier life style that translates into the avoidance or mitigation of chronic diseases.

My first blog - an introduction

   I finally have gotten around to share my experiences as a naturalist here in Costa Rica. I formerly lived in Hawaii for about 16 years and, among other things, worked as a marine biologist for the State Government. I moved to Costa Rica in 1991, but later went to the Marshall Islands with my wife and daughter for 5 years under contract with the Raytheon Corporation. We returned to Costa Rica in 2001 where we have resided ever since. My wife is a native of CR and is a tropical botanist.
  So, what is like to be here in CR as an admirer of the natural world? Well, with about 5% of the world's biodiversity established here you can seize the opportunity to view some of the 870, or so,  bird species, over 11000 species of plants that includes more than 1500 species of orchids, some 400 species of amphibians and reptiles, over 200 species of mammals, of which more than 100 are bats, and 181 known species of fresh-water fish. Insects? How about more than 35000 identified species with possibly thousands more yet to be discovered, so be prepared to bring your own personal supply of bug spray!
 Subsequent blogs of mine will include photos and possibly sound and video on occasion to accompany my narrative. I hope you will enjoy.

     Natureboy