Saving Toucans Together
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About the Program
Saving Toucans Together receives injured toucans and orphans who are too young to survive in the wild. Although we had cared for rescued toucans since our inception, the STT program was started to improve our release capabilities, especially for rescued baby toucans.
The program started in 2004.
Making History in Costa Rica
The Toucan Rescue Ranch is the first in Costa Rica and second in the world to have captive-bred Emerald Toucanets successfully! Due to this incredible feat, we have applied this knowledge to our other toucan species. We have found a gradual incline in breeding success at TRR.
We have been the first to have a captive-bred, parent-raised Keel-Billed toucan. Additionally, we are seeing progress with our toucan pairs, and they are beginning to mate and hatch babies.
What Dangers Do Toucans Face
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Habitat Loss & Climate Change: Deforestation causes nest sites, and the loss of trees also exposes them to predators. Climate change and altered rainfall patterns affect the availability of food they rely on.
- Illegal Pet Trade: Toucans are often captured and sold as exotic pets, leading to their removal from the wild and potential mistreatment. Hunting and poaching for their colorful feathers or meat further endanger their populations.
- Vehicle Collision & Pollution: Pesticides and pollution harm toucans, contaminating their food and water sources. Vehicle collisions are a common cause of injury and death.
Growth throughout the Years
- In 2004, Leslie Howle founded the Toucan Rescue Ranch, specializing in parrots and toucans.
- Made toucan history in 2007: Made history by becoming the first facility in Costa Rica and the second in the world to have parent-raised, captive-bred Emerald Toucanets.
- Purchased more land in 2015: In 2015, a 16-acre farm in Sarapiqui was turned into a soft-release site for rehabilitated wildlife.
- Built pre-release aviaries in 2019: 1st Annual #TRRShareYourShot campaign raised $5,727 to build two new pre-release aviaries. We also built a brand new clinic at our Release Site location.
