Costa Rica

Once part of the great Central American country was peacefully allowed to separate and become independant in the early 1900.s. It is the most progressive and democratic countries of the region. The have no military but do have universal health care
with a life expectancy of  79 years and very low child mortality. Education upto the bachelors level is free for all,

It has a national policy of eco-sustainable development codifying the protection of the environment and wildlife into its laws. Eco-torism has become a major industry.

We we able to make a mini exploration of the lowland rainforrest area close to the port -- Puerto Quetzal -- which included a river boat ride along a crocodile rich stretch. These crocodiles are able to live in both fresh and salt water.

The  heavily wooded bank of the river held a wide variety of birds many blending in with the foliage unto we were so close that the suddenly flew off as if out of nowhere.

This beatifully colored Bear Troated Tiger Herron ( so called because it call sounds like a puma which for some reason the local call a tiger!)   sta still fro a second to allow me to make this picture before it took of for a quieter tree

The white herron is a less skiteris bird and just ignored our passing.

Every where the were clumps of tropical flower in typically bright clours an often complex formations.

It is easy to understand why people from all over the world visit just to enjoy the extensive national parks and rain forest reserves on the sammll but very civilized country.