Scope of Job
Leslie, Founder and Director of Toucan Rescue Ranch, has always had a deep connection to the natural world. Originally from the United States but growing up in Costa Rica, she was inspired by her father, a pioneering property developer who helped establish ecotourism on the Pacific coast, particularly in the Nosara region.
After moving to the United States, Leslie carved out a
successful career as an Occupational Therapist and outdoor adventure ropes course entrepreneur.
With her own growing collection of birds, her passion for wildlife led her on an adventurous journey to the jungles of Peru, where she studied wild macaws. This experience rekindled her lifelong dream of creating a sanctuary for birds.
Returning to Costa Rica, Leslie turned her dream into reality by founding a bird refuge center, initially starting with a bed and breakfast for friends who came to visit. Her vision has since expanded, and today, the Toucan Rescue Ranch is a thriving wildlife rescue center. Under her dedicated leadership, the center now provides care for a diverse range of species, including toucans, sloths, otters, owls, spider monkeys, and more. Leslie’s unwavering commitment continues to drive the Ranch’s mission of healing and conserving wildlife in Costa Rica.
She has also co-authored Millie, The Two-Toed Sloth: A Costa Rican Rescue Adventure and been featured on CBS 60 Minutes and other major networks, sharing the inspiring story of the Ranch.
Biography
Leslie’s deep connection to wildlife began in Costa Rica, inspired by her father’s work in ecotourism. After a career in the U.S. and a transformative trip to Peru, she returned to Costa Rica to fulfill her dream of creating a bird sanctuary. What started as a bed and breakfast for friends has evolved into the Toucan Rescue Ranch, a thriving wildlife rescue center. Today, Leslie’s vision extends beyond toucans to include a diverse range of species, reflecting her enduring commitment to wildlife conservation.