Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
POISON DARTS & HARMLESS ROCKETS
Traversed by many streams and rivers, Corcovado is a hot spot for exquisitely beautiful
poison-dart frogs. Two species here, the granular poison-dart frog and the Golfo Dulce
poison-dart frog, are Costa Rican endemics - the latter only occurs in and around Corco-
vado. A search of the leaf litter near Sirena ranger station readily turns up both species,
as well as the more widespread green and black poison-dart frog.
You might also find some other members of the family that have one important differ-
ence: they're not poisonous! Called rocket frogs because of their habit of launching them-
selves into streams when disturbed, they are essentially poison-dart frogs without the
poisonous punch.
The difference is likely in their diets. Poison-dart frogs have a diet dominated by ants,
which are rich in alkaloids, and are thought to give rise to their formidable defenses.
Rocket frogs also eat ants but in lower quantities, and rely instead on their astounding
leaps to escape predation. They also lack the dazzling warning colors of their toxic cous-
ins.
Costa Rica's poison-dart frogs are not dangerous to humans unless their toxins come
into contact with a person's bloodstream or mucous membranes. It's probably best to
admire their cautionary colors without touching.
Bahía Drake to Corcovado
This craggy stretch of coastline is home to sandy inlets that disappear at high tide, leaving
only the rocky outcroppings and luxuriant rainforest. Virtually uninhabited and undeve-
loped beyond a few tourist lodges, the setting here is magnificent and wild. If you're look-
ing to spend a bit more time along the shores of Bahía Drake before penetrating the depths
of Parque Nacional Corcovado, consider a night or two in some of the country's most re-
mote accommodations.
The only way to get around the area is by boat or by foot, which means that travelers are
more or less dependent on their lodges.
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