Toucan Rescue Ranch History
Discover the rich history of the Toucan Rescue Ranch, from its humble beginnings in 2004 to its growth into a leading wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center. This timeline highlights key milestones, including groundbreaking conservation efforts, educational initiatives, and the expansion of their release programs to ensure a brighter future for Costa Rican wildlife.
2004: Founding of Toucan Rescue Ranch
Leslie Howle and Jorge Murillo established the Toucan Rescue Ranch (TRR), marking the beginning of their commitment to wildlife conservation.
2007: First Mammal Rescue
TRR accepts its first mammal, Millie, a two-fingered sloth, opening its doors to a wider range of species, including mammals.
TRR becomes the first facility in Costa Rica and the second in the world to successfully captive-breed Emerald Toucanets, setting the stage for further conservation efforts.
2008: Property Expansion for Release Efforts
The Toucan Rescue Ranch invests in a 25-acre property in Sarapiqui, Costa Rica, marking a pivotal moment for TRR’s expansion.
2013: Establishment of Veterinary Hospital
TRR establishes a veterinary hospital at its headquarters in San Isidro, Heredia. This addition allows for comprehensive medical care for rescued wildlife, enhances rehabilitation efforts, and gains international recognition.
Toucan Rescue Ranch becomes a registered 501(c)3 non-profit in the United States.
2015: Further Expansion of Conservation Land
Toucan Rescue Ranch transforms a 16-acre farm in Sarapiqui, Costa Rica into a soft-release site for rehabilitated wildlife. This initiative provides a natural environment for animals to acclimate before their release back into the wild.
2017: Collaboration for Sloth Conservation and Release
TRR partners with The Sloth Institute to form the Saving Sloths Together (SST) program, combining expertise to enhance sloth rescue, rehabilitation, and release in Costa Rica.
2018: Reforestation Efforts
TRR partners with Café Britt, over 2,000 trees are planted to restore fragmented rainforest canopy. TRR expands its sloth release efforts by acquiring tracking equipment, enabling better monitoring and intervention for the successful transition of sloths to their natural habitats.
2019: Continued Expansion of Facilities
2020: Adaptation During the Pandemic
Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, TRR remains committed to animal care and conservation. The organization expands its education program with virtual options and university-level courses, becoming the #1 virtual tour in the world on Amazon’s Virtual Experiences. TRR receives prestigious awards, including the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels Certification.
2021: Continued Educational Outreach
TRR strengthens its education initiatives, forming alliances with local companies and achieving top ratings on platforms like TripAdvisor. The organization’s virtual tours gain popularity, providing global audiences with insights into its conservation efforts.
2023: New Program Launch and Education Center
TRR launched the Saving Howler Monkeys Together program, which is dedicated to the rewilding and conservation of howler monkeys. Additionally, completing an education center at TRR’s Release Site location garners media attention, highlighting ongoing conservation efforts.
The Toucan Rescue Ranch continues its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release Costa Rican wildlife, expanding its impact through conservation, education, and research.
