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
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
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
2019: Continued Expansion of Facilities
TRR implements an animal care software, streamlining clinic operations. Fundraising campaigns support the construction of new facilities, including a clinic and pre-release aviaries, enhancing TRR’s capacity for wildlife rehabilitation.
2020: Adaptation During the Pandemic
2021: Continued Educational Outreach
2023: New Program Launch and Education Center
2024: Celebrates 20 Years of Operation
In 2024, Toucan Rescue Ranch marked its 20th anniversary with incredible milestones! Thanks to generous grants, TRR’s wildlife hospital received vital upgrades, including a blood machine, x-ray machine, and enhanced care protocols, significantly improving wildlife survival rates.
TRR also hosted its inaugural U.S. fundraiser, Wildlife Wonders, at the Nashville Zoo, securing its first AZA conservation partner and a generous $25,000 donation. The Sloth Ironman Games broke records, raising over $30,000 for wildlife rehabilitation!
Adding to the excitement, an intern’s legacy project brought a vibrant brand refresh, giving TRR’s media a fresh, modern look. TRR also expanded its impact by welcoming corporate volunteers, fostering greater community involvement in conservation.
2025: To be Continued...
The Toucan Rescue Ranch continues its mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release Costa Rican wildlife, expanding its impact through conservation, education, and research.
