Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.8, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Cloudbridge Nature Reserve in Costa Rica Reserva Natural en Costa Rica Open to visitors 365 days a year for hiking and wildlife tours, we enable people of all generations and all walks of life to be able to enjoy and learn about this incredible part of Costa Rica. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.cloudbridge.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/blog/) - [Program Blog June 2026](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-june-2026/) - June marks the anniversary month of Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, which has now been in existence for 24 years! During that time, the reserve has always maintained the same focus, of not only conserving the Cloud Forest, but also providing a space for visitors to spend time in nature and learn about this diverse ecosystem. For - [Tiny Mammals, Big Discoveries: Rodent Research at Cloudbridge](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science_blog_june_2026/) - When most people think about Costa Rica's wildlife, they imagine colorful birds, monkeys swinging through the canopy, or perhaps even elusive wild cats. Yet hidden beneath the forest vegetation lives an equally important group of animals that often goes unnoticed: rodents. Although small and rarely seen, these mammals play a fundamental role in maintaining healthy - [Program Blog May 2026](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-may-2026/) - May is the beginning of the rainy season, but this year it has been a bit spotty. There have been some rains, but it feels as though the season has not yet begun in earnest. This month we were delighted to receive a student group from Western Kentucky University for a week-long immersion, it is - [Listening to the Night: Studying Bats Through Sound at Cloudbridge](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science_blog_may_2026/) - At Cloudbridge, understanding the wildlife that inhabits the cloud forest is a fundamental part of protecting it. This month, we are excited to share a new research project focused on one of the reserve’s most elusive and fascinating groups of animals: bats. Together with bat researcher Doris Audet, Cloudbridge has started a project aimed at - [Program Blog April 2026](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-april-2026/) - April has been a great month for us on the reserve. The month started off with the observation of Holy Week, and finished with the celebration of the second edition of Valle del Chirripo´s Ultramarathon, a race organized by the local chamber of tourism with various distances. Runners of the 50 km distance came through - [Program Blog March 2026](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-march-2026/) - Here in Costa Rica, Holy Week is one of the main yearly celebrations, and schools have the whole week off. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to spend some quality time in nature, and to that end we will be open throughout this holiday week, with our regular schedule (every day from 7 am - [September 2023](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2023/) - In 2019, a trio of students from McGill University planted over a hundred trees on various local farms as part of a project to promote agroforestry. This month, it was very much a pleasure to have one of these researchers, Dasha Gousseva, return to Cloudbridge and not only see how the reserve itself has grown - [Winners and losers: how human presence is reshaping hummingbird communities.](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science_blog_march_2026/) - At Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, hummingbirds are a constant presence, darting between flowers, flashing iridescent colors, and fiercely defending feeding territories. But are all species benefiting equally from the way humans shape the landscape? This article is based on a research report by our intern Fergus R. H. Jackson, developed as part of his University dissertation, - [Science Blog - March 2026 - A Cloudbridge Documentary](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-march-2026-a-cloudbridge-documentary/) - This month we are sharing a documentary that explores the importance of water and its role in the communities surrounding Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Water is one of the most essential resources for life, and in the cloud forests of Costa Rica it plays a particularly important role in shaping ecosystems and supporting the people who - [Program Blog Feb 26](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program_blog_feb_26/) - February is always a busy month at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, what with the Chirripó Race and the end of school vacations in Costa Rica. We are grateful for the visitors who have come to hike our trails, stay in our casitas or take a guided tour, we trust you had a great experience at Cloudbridge, - [Science Blog - February 2026](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-february-2026/) - Forest Is Returning to the Chirripó Landscape. And We Are Part of That Story A new scientific study by Luis Diego Rodríguez-Bonilla and Adolfo Quesada-Román, published in the Journal for Nature Conservation, examines how the Chirripó Pacífico catchment has changed over the past 33 years. Using satellite imagery and geographic information systems, the authors analyzed - [Program blog January 26](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-january-26/) - As is customary, the year started out with a busy month, receiving two student groups from the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science for a full week of exploring the cloud forest and learning what conducting science in the field is like. Working in small teams and guided by Cloudbridge staff, these bright students designed - [January Science Blog – Gatton Academy At Cloudbridge](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-science-blog-2026/) - At the very beginning of each year, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve becomes a living classroom as we welcome students from the Gatton Academy, a collaboration that has become a tradition marking the start of our scientific calendar. This January, we had the privilege of welcoming two groups of future scientists from the Gatton Academy, each spending - [Program Blog Dec 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-dec-2025/) - Happy New Year! From all of us here at Cloudbridge, we would like to wish you and your loved ones a prosperous 2026, filled with good health, laughter and many blessings. Looking back on the year that has just come to an end, Cloudbridge of course suffered a huge loss with the passing of long-time - [From Wildcats to Microecosystems: A Year of Science at Cloudbridge](https://www.cloudbridge.org/a-year-of-science-at-cloudbridge/) - As 2025 comes to a close, we would like to reflect on a remarkable year of research, learning, and collaboration at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Over the past twelve months, nearly 80 researchers, interns, and volunteers worked alongside our team, helping turn the reserve into a living laboratory and deepening our understanding of the cloud forest—an - [Program Blog Nov 25](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-nov-25/) - In our area of Costa Rica, November is a time in which we receive large quantities of rain on certain days, but we also have some days in which we can feel the beginning of the coming dry season. The school year is coming to an end, and Cloudbridge was able to implement the environmental - [Science blog November - Our Camera Trap Project](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-november-2025/) - At Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, our camera trap network is a cornerstone of ongoing mammal research and biodiversity monitoring. Many mammal species within the reserve are elusive, primarily nocturnal, or actively avoid human presence. As a result, traditional observation methods often fail to detect them, creating significant data gaps. Camera traps provide a non-invasive solution, allowing - [Program Blog October 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-october-2025/) - It´s the rainy season here at Cloudbridge, but that has not stopped us from continuing with our activities here at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Throughout the Costa Rican school year, we have been imparting the environmental education program CONUBI in two local schools, the main image shows some participants in the birdwatching class (photo credit: Marilyn - [Science Blog October - II Edition of our Mammals Course](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-october-2025/) - From September 26 to 28, 2025, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve welcomed participants to the second edition of the intensive course “Mammals of Costa Rica: Natural History, Conservation, and Field Methods.” Led by biologist José Daniel Ramírez-Fernández—a leading expert on Neotropical small mammals and founder of OneHealth Costa Rica Alliance—the course provided a deep dive into the - [Program blog September 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-september-2025/) - September is Costa Rica´s patriotic month in which Costa Rica celebrates its independence from Spain in 1821. Though this proclamation was made on September 15th, it took over a month for this news to travel over land from Guatemala to Costa Rica, and every year on September 14th Costa Ricans celebrate the traditions of the - [Science blog - September 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-september-2025/) - From Cloudbridge to Nature: The Science of Seasonal Asynchrony At Cloudbridge, we believe that meaningful science often begins with quiet observation: a flower opening in the mist, a bird calling from a young forest, a researcher pausing to wonder about the rhythm of life. This month, we are honored to celebrate one such story—Drew Terasaki - [Program Blog August 25](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-august-25/) - Chirripo National Park is celebrating it´s 50th anniversary, and this month has been full of engaging activities, culminating in the revival of the "Reto de las Aguas Eternas" (Eternal waters challenge), a 12 km trail run which goes through Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. As per usual, our program participants were able to contribute to the fun - [Science Blog August: A New Jewel of the Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-august-a-new-jewel-of-the-cloud-forest-rhodospatha-rubrinervis/) - Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a living laboratory where discoveries continue to unfold. In the misty cloud forest, countless species remain undescribed or little known to science. Every new finding adds to our understanding of these fragile ecosystems and strengthens the case for their protection. Research here helps - [In honor of Linda Moskalyk](https://www.cloudbridge.org/linda/) - Once, in another time, I believed that souls resided in trees. I worked a lifetime tracing branches Seeking out the one tree that would hold my spirit. “The Last Arborist” by Paul Wilson Sadly Linda Moskalyk passed away surrounded by her family in Saskatoon on August 4th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Linda - [Science blog - July 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/science-blog-july-2025/) - This month, at Cloudbridge we’re shining the spotlight on Jeremy Madden, one of our returning interns at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. We absolutely love when past interns come back to continue their research, and Jeremy’s story is a perfect example of how a passion for conservation can evolve into deep, meaningful scientific work. Jeremy first came - [Program Blog June 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-june-2025/) - A private nature reserve such as Cloudbridge is a refuge for biodiversity. Though many people don´t value the myriad species that make up an ecosystem, all play their part in creating vibrant, living communities. This curculionid was beautifully captured by Anthony Garita on the reserve, and demonstrates how even small or commonplace things can be - [Program Blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog/) - We continue to have exciting and fun activities at Cloudbridge. At the end of May we participated in a national amphibian count, and during the first week of June we received an excellent student group visit from Western Kentucky University. Students learned about environmental education, ecotourism and science, and all were impressed by the beauty - [Have You Ever Heard a Bat?](https://www.cloudbridge.org/have-you-ever-heard-a-bat/) - Most of us associate bats with the night sky—flashes of shadow darting between trees, nearly silent. But bats are far from silent. In fact, they are constantly making sounds as they fly, hunt, and navigate. We just can’t hear them. That’s because bats use a remarkable adaptation called echolocation. They emit high-frequency sounds, many of - [Mammals of Costa Rica Field Course: First Edition Recap](https://www.cloudbridge.org/first_mammals_course/) - Mist curled among the ferns on the morning of May 16 as fifteen naturalist guides and wildlife enthusiasts—from Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and El Salvador—gathered at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve for our inaugural Mammals of Costa Rica Field Course. Over three days, participants deepened their understanding of the country’s mammal biodiversity and reinforced the link between responsible - [Program Blog April 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-april-2025/) - It is such an honor for us at Cloudbridge to be stewards for the amazing wildlife that is present on the reserve. This picture of a Bocaracá (Bothriechis supraciliaris) was taken by our hospitality coordinator Anthony Garita, of an individual that had been relocated to Cloudbridge two years ago. Cloudbridge is committed to encouraging more - [Help Us Keep Eyes in the Forest: Support Cloudbridge’s Camera Trap Campaign](https://www.cloudbridge.org/help-us-keep-eyes-in-the-forest-support-cloudbridges-camera-trap-campaign/) - Hidden away in the misty Talamanca mountains of Costa Rica, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. From elusive jaguars and ocelots to shy pacas and curious coatis, the forest is full of life, much of which we rarely get to see with our own eyes. That's where camera traps come in. These quiet, - [Program Blog March 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-march-2025/) - This is an exciting time for us here at Cloudbridge, as we have recently formalized our partnership with the Wildlife Imaging Project, to continue monitoring the biodiversity of the forest using camera traps. Though Cloudbridge has long had a camera trap monitoring program, this collaboration will allow us to continue this important research. We have - [Birds Team Up: A Study on Mixed-Species Flocks in the Mountains of Costa Rica](https://www.cloudbridge.org/birds-team-up-a-study-on-mixed-species-flocks-in-the-mountains/) - In the cloud forests of Costa Rica, birds from different species often form mixed-species flocks to move and forage together. One of our researchers investigated how these flocks vary with altitude, vegetation density, seasonality, and time of day in Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. We found that flocks were less common at higher altitudes, with the highest concentration observed around 1,700 meters - [Program Blog Feb 25](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-feb-25/) - February is always a busy month at Cloudbridge, with the whole town of San Gerardo preparing for the annual Chirripó race. As always, participants in our research and volunteer program contributed in the days leading up to the race, helping the community to prepare tamales and other foods that will be sold on race day. - [Program Blog January 2025](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-january-2025/) - The high season is definitely here, and January was an excellent month for us here at Cloudbridge! For over a decade, Cloudbridge has been hosting student groups from the Gatton Academy for Science and Mathematics, who always enjoy their visit to the Cloud Forest. In addition to these groups, we were also happy to receive - [Program blog December 2024](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-december-2024/) - Looking back on the previous year, we want to extend a very heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone that has visited the reserve this year and had a wonderful experience in the Cloud Forest. We have had some great researchers and volunteers this year, in addition to educational and volunteer groups, as well as guests in - [Program blog November 2024](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-november-2024/) - The year will be coming to a close soon, and Cloudbridge has been wrapping up another great year in style! Though much of Costa Rica and Central America received a large amount of rain over the course of the month due to the effects of ... we are grateful that our region was largely spared - [Program Blog October 2024](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-october-2024/) - October has been a busy month for us here at Cloudbridge, with a 4-day tree course taking place on the reserve, in addition to receiving various student groups, and continuing to host an excellent group of researchers. On October 17-20, we hosted a Tropical Dendrology course with renowned botanist Nelson Zamora. This course was - [Comparing Different Methodologies for Effective Bird Surveys](https://www.cloudbridge.org/comparing-different-methodologies-for-effective-bird-surveys/) - When conducting a research project or participating in data collection, oftentimes what we’re most interested in is the results compiled at the end. However, the means to the end is arguably just as important as the final result, as the method has a large impact on what those results may be, or how we interpret - [Program Blog September 2024](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-september-2024/) - September is the month in which Costa Rica commemorates its Independence from Spain in 1821, with typical dances, parades and other civic activities. This month also marks the beginning of the lowest months of the year for tourism, and this year is no exception. We currently have availability in our charming rental casitas for the next - [New Tiger-cat Species Revealed Using Ecological Modeling, Biogeography, and Phenotypic Analyses](https://www.cloudbridge.org/new-tiger-cat-species-revealed-using-ecological-modeling-biogeography-and-phenotypic-analyses/) - Above: an oncilla (Leopardus pardinoides) captured on camera traps within Cloudbridge. This individual is melanistic, making it all black (Photo: Benjamin Luke). The intricacy of animal speciation, whether that be for amphibians, birds, or mammals, is often a tedious and long process. It includes years of data collection, comparison of data to other sites, and - [Program Blog August 2024](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-august-2024/) - August is the month of National Parks, as well as the Anniversary of neighboring Chirripó National Park. This year we celebrated the importance of these protected areas in a joint event along with the Buena Vista primary school, where Cloudbridge has also concluded the eight modules of the CONUBI program this year. Students, parents, teachers - [Moth Diversity in Different Cloud Forest Succession Stages (Sphingidae focus)](https://www.cloudbridge.org/moth-diversity-in-different-cloud-forest-succession-stages-sphingidae-focus/) - As pollination continues to be one of the most important ecological processes, it’s only fair that we understand better who is responsible for fulfilling that niche. Primarily, one may think about bees and butterflies for daytime pollination, and bats for nighttime pollination. But there’s an important participant in this niche that sometimes gets forgotten - - [Program Blog July 24](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-july-24/) - July has been a great month for us here at Cloudbridge, if a bit rainy : ) We would like to announce that we will be postponing the upcoming tropical dendrology course until later in the year, the dates will be defined soon. Likewise, Cloudbridge will soon begin interviews for the position of reserve director, - [First Record of a Tailless Puma at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve](https://www.cloudbridge.org/first-record-of-a-tailless-puma-at-cloudbridge-nature-reserve/) - Wild cats are considered to be one of the most formidable mammalian predators across the globe. Their opportunistic, stealthy style of hunting is a unique attribute that is relatively similar across all feline species. Besides lions, wild cats exhibit a solitary life; arguably one of the most interesting traits, as this requires each individual to - [Cloud Forest Festival 2024](https://www.cloudbridge.org/cloud-forest-festival-2024/) - This month has been filled with great activities, including some tree-planting at the Talari Reserve and the third edition of the annual Cloud Forest Festival. With the participation of local vendors, educators and musicians, this edition was once again a resounding success! In the lead picture, Gabriela Lopez from Proyecto Humus gives a presentation about - [Behavioral Study on Cryptic Dice's Cottontail](https://www.cloudbridge.org/behavioral-study-on-cryptic-dices-cottontail/) - When discussing the role that mammals play in an ecosystem, oftentimes the first thought will be a predator or a keystone species (think eagles, jaguars, or tapirs for terrestrial ecosystems). While it’s true that these roles are paramount in the overall health of ecosystems, their livelihoods wouldn’t be possible without an abundance of prey species - [May Program Blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-program-blog/) - Cloudbridge Nature Reserve offers visitors access to the unique Cloud Forest of the Talamanca mountains, be it as a day visitor, receiving a guided tour, or even participating in our research or volunteer program. The astounding biodiversity found on the reserve includes frogs such as these mating Chiriquí Robber Frogs (Pristimantis cruentus). This excellent photo, - [Reforestation Effectiveness and Success in a Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/reforestation-effectiveness-and-success-in-a-cloud-forest/) - Reforestation has become an integral part of the larger habitat restoration effort. As a relatively simple, successful, and opportune way to replenish lost ecosystems, it’s no wonder that we’ve seen countless stories of reforestation all throughout the globe. So long as there are hands to plant, sun to shine, and water to nourish, the basic - [Planting trees again!](https://www.cloudbridge.org/planting-trees-again/) - The rains have finally come again and Cloudbridge was able to fulfill some of it´s fundamental mission of tree-planting once more! Our program participants and staff members had a great day hauling trees from our native nursery to Mark´s meadow, an area which was purchased in the last few years with the generous support of - [Arboreal Camera Trapping to Measure Canopy Biodiversity](https://www.cloudbridge.org/arboreal-camera-trapping-to-measure-canopy-biodiversity/) - While the deepest depths of the ocean are considered to be one of the most unknown ecosystems to humankind, there’s another contender that’s equally as mysterious: the uppermost canopies of our forests. Famously inaccessible, forest canopies remain mostly untouched for scientific purposes - mainly due to the limitations of reaching them. The biodiversity believed to - [March program blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-program-blog/) - March has been another busy month, with many day visitors and student groups, such as the Pitzer College for Ecological Restoration (pictured above), in addition to our usual research and volunteer program. We have also continued to implement the environmental education program CONUBI in two local schools, as well as hosting educational activities such as - [Benthic Communities within Cloudbridge Water Streams](https://www.cloudbridge.org/benthic-communities-within-cloudbridge-water-streams/) - In our current day, clean water is a privilege. Accessibility and abundance of water for drinking, bathing, washing, cooking and so on, is something that many of us don’t think twice about. But water isn’t just a service that humans need - its use and significance stretches across every single organism in the animal kingdom. - [February program blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-program-blog/) - February has been a busy month for us, we have great participants, who have been enjoying the Cloudbridge research and volunteer program, in addition to some activities off the reserve, such as a traditional Costa Rican meal hosted by Doña Leila (main picture, photo credit: Mikayla Eccher). In addition, our participants were able to support - [Response of an Introduced Frog Breeding Pond in a Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/response-of-an-introduced-frog-breeding-pond-in-a-cloud-forest/) - When thinking of amphibians, some of the first thoughts that may come to mind are water, lush greenery, soft (or perhaps loud) calls, and webbed hands and feet. While these idyllic thoughts can be true, amphibians are one of the most delicate and easily threatened organisms. These small creatures are sensitive in many aspects: their - [January 2024 Blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2024-blog/) - 2024 has gotten off to a busy start for us here at Cloudbridge, with the reserve having received many daily visitors, as is typical in the "high season" months, in addition to the educational groups which have recently enjoyed a study abroad program at Cloudbridge! The picture above, taken by Clinton Lewis of WKU, shows - [Bird Diversity in Differing Cloud Forest Successions with Migratory Species Focus](https://www.cloudbridge.org/bird-diversity-in-differing-cloud-forest-successions-with-migratory-species-focus/) - Every year, land masses stretching from Canada down to the tip of Chile exhibit an extraordinary phenomenon - avian migration. In the autumn, when the air temperatures begin to cool in the upper parts of North America and food sources become scarce, birds find themselves lacking consistent nutrition. Being animals of flight, they have a - [December 2023](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2023/) - December is always a great month here at Cloudbridge, with beautiful sunny afternoons, children on vacation and holiday festivities. It is a lovely time of year, and quite busy! At Cloudbridge the end of 2023 has prompted us to look back on all of the amazing things that we have accomplished over the past year, - [Comparing Vascular Plant Structures in the Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/comparing-vascular-plant-structures-in-the-cloud-forest/) - The outstanding rate of forest growth in tropical climates is just one example of how resilient forests can be. Globally, deforestation has been a hot topic of discussion as we’ve seen countless hectares of forest be cut down throughout the last two millennia. Luckily for both the forests and for wildlife, forests are one of - [November program blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-program-blog/) - This month is approaching the end of the school year in Costa Rica, and the gradual transition into the dry season. This year, Cloudbridge has implemented the eight modules of the environmental education program "Knowing our biodiversity (CONUBI)" in two local schools. This comprehensive program developed by various environmental education organizations teaches students about biodiversity, - [The Factors that Influence Animal Abundance and Richness within a Montane Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-factors-that-influence-animal-abundance-and-richness-within-a-montane-cloud-forest/) - Wild animals, just like humans, are dependent on fruitful environments that support their lifestyle for ultimate success. In reality, some of their requirements are not that different from ours. For example, an abundance of food, clean drinking water, a safe place to sleep, and genetic diversity for healthy reproduction are some of the essentials. What - [October Program Blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-program-blog/) - Though it´s the height of the rainy season, this month has also been busy for us. We have a great team of program participants, and we hosted two educational activities: a GIS specialty course and a community bat night to celebrate Bat Appreciation Month. In addition, we concluded implementing all 8 modules of the CONUBI - [Soil Composition in a Tropical Montane Cloud Forest of Costa Rica](https://www.cloudbridge.org/soil-composition-in-a-tropical-montane-cloud-forest-of-costa-rica/) - When thinking about our Earth, there are components that come to mind first: animals, the climate, and the ocean. Yet there are many more factors that comprise this planet to be as successful as it has been, factors that oftentimes go unnoticed or are forgotten about. For example, when was the last time you thought - [Analyzing Camera Trap Data at different Locations within Cloudbridge Nature Reserve](https://www.cloudbridge.org/analyzing-camera-trap-data-at-different-locations-within-cloudbridge-nature-reserve/) - Mammalian life is arguably some of the most exciting things to witness when you go to a new country. In Costa Rica the wildlife is famous, for example the endangered Spider Monkey (Ateles geoffroyi), the almost alien like Kinkajou (Potos flavus), or the notorious Jaguar (Panthera onca). While it might be possible to see these - [August 2023 Program Blog](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2023-program-blog/) - This month our keen-eyed researchers and staff have continued seeing many species of wildlife, with some spectacular photography featured again in this month´s blog. The image of the golden-spotted rain frogs (Pristimantis cruentus) and the blue-eyed anole (Anolis woodi) below were both taken by our hospitality coordinator Anthony Garita. Happy 48th Anniversary to Chirripó National - [Relationship between Predatory Carnivores and Livestock owners in Costa Rica](https://www.cloudbridge.org/relationship-between-predatory-carnivores-and-livestock-owners-in-costa-rica/) - It’s well known that Costa Rica is home to a myriad of mammalian wildlife, ranging from small mammals like opossums to the famous jaguar. However, a commonly overlooked aspect of these mammals, specifically the carnivores, is the potential relationship or run-ins they may have with domesticated animals like livestock. Farming livestock is an essential part - [Program Blog July 2023](https://www.cloudbridge.org/program-blog-july-2023/) - July has been a great month for us here at Cloudbridge, with many beautiful wildlife images taken by our program participants and our staff members. It has been very nice to bear witness to how our staff member Anthony Garita has been honing his photography skills, and we are sure that you will enjoy the - [Tropical Vine Abundance in a Cloud Forest within a Gradient of Forest Age](https://www.cloudbridge.org/tropical-vine-abundance-in-a-cloud-forest-within-a-gradient-of-forest-age/) - Within a tropical forest, there are a myriad of different types of plants that contribute to the total mass of biodiversity that exists. When thinking of jungles, most often we think of the large trees that loom high above. Yet, there’s so much more to be taken into consideration. Each and every plant plays a - [Cloud Forest Festival!](https://www.cloudbridge.org/cloud-forest-festival/) - This month marks the 21st anniversary of Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, and we have celebrated with many fun and educational activities, culminating in the second annual Cloud Forest Festival. This festival brought together community members, local entrepeneurs (such as doña Leila, doña Vera and don Edgardo, pictured), and our program participants, for a full day of - [Oncilla Conservation and the Costa Rica Wildlife Foundation: How to Protect the Smallest Wild Cat in Mesoamerica](https://www.cloudbridge.org/oncilla-conservation-and-the-costa-rica-wildlife-foundation-how-to-protect-the-smallest-wild-cat-in-mesoamerica/) - Almost everyone has heard of the famous jaguar (Panthera onca) that resides in the vast jungles of Central and South America, but have you ever heard of the oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus)? In Costa Rica, there are six different types of wild cat that are spread throughout the country, with a large range of size and - [Thankful for the rain - now let´s plant some trees!](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2023/) - After a dry season that lived up to its name, and some very sporadic rain through March and April, we are glad to see that the rainy season seems to have finally arrived! At Cloudbridge we love the beginning of the rainy season, not only because the plants seem to enjoy it, but also because - [How Species Lists are Created in a Dense Cloud Forest in Costa Rica](https://www.cloudbridge.org/how-species-lists-are-created-in-a-dense-cloud-forest-in-costa-rica/) - At Cloudbridge, we currently have a list of over 300 species of birds that are present within the reserve. While this seems like an unbelievable amount for a relatively small area, it really comes down to the uniqueness of this habitat. Tropical montane cloud forests, like Cloudbridge, are known to have high endemism on top - [We love trees!](https://www.cloudbridge.org/we-love-trees/) - April is a month when Quetzal couples are busy tending to their growing offspring. If you are lucky enough to know where there is a quetzal nest, you will have ample opportunity to bear witness to this magnificent and photogenic bird as it goes about its parental duties. The above picture was taken by Arnaud - [Butterfly Species Abundance throughout differing Cloud Forest habitats](https://www.cloudbridge.org/butterfly-species-abundance-throughout-differing-cloud-forest-habitats/) - A humble butterfly, one of the most beautiful invertebrates that reside throughout all of Costa Rica. Some are more famous than others, like the blue morpho (Morpho menelaus), however each has their own beauty and role to play within an ecosystem. It may be surprising to some that butterflies do in fact play a large - [Fascinating Fungi and other fun activities](https://www.cloudbridge.org/fascinating-fungi-and-other-fun-activities/) - March has been a great month for us here at Cloudbridge, with many activities, including an enriching workshop with Fungi expert Nelson Chavez, a visit from Cloudbridge founder Jenny Giddy, a community water walk for World Water Day, environmental education in local schools and more! Fungi Workshop This month we received mushroom expert Nelson Chavez - [Behavior Tendencies of White-Nosed Coati (Nasua narica) at Differing Elevations in Talamanca Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/behavior-tendencies-of-white-nosed-coati-nasua-narica-at-differing-elevations-in-talamanca-cloud-forest/) - Cousin to the familiar raccoon, White Nosed Coatis (Nasua Narica) are a common type of mammal that's found throughout all of Costa Rica, and it's a fan favorite here at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Most often, these (fat) house-cat sized animals are seen either foraging around the forest, or climbing trees in search of delicious fruits - [Dry Season in the Talamanca Mountains](https://www.cloudbridge.org/dry-season-in-the-talamanca-mountains/) - Somewhere in the Talamanca mountains, this regal melanistic jaguar is living his best life. Though this wild animal will likely never interact directly with a human being, we are able to admire his image thanks to the ongoing collaborative efforts of QERC-PLNU Mammals project, Chirripo National Park and Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. This lovely image of - [Diversity of Herpetofauna across Primary and Secondary Cloudforest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/diversity-of-herpetofauna-across-primary-and-secondary-cloudforest/) - How does one begin to study some of our more elusive animals in the reserve, like fantastically camouflaged frogs and snakes? For example, the diminutive juvenile side-striped palm pit viper (Bothriechis lateralis) in the photo above is only about 10cm long (4 inches). It’s historically a difficult topic to study, which is why herpetofauna - [Learning about the rainforest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/learning-about-the-rainforest/) - After a two-year hiatus, this month we were quite happy to receive two groups of the curious and motivated (and very smart!) students of the Gatton Academy. It was very much a pleasure to help guide these students through their research, and the results are always quite impressive! This month we were also delighted - [Researching the Regeneration of the Forest from pastureland in a Talamancan Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/researching-the-regeneration-of-the-forest-from-pastureland-in-a-talamancan-cloud-forest/) - It's safe to say that deforestation has become a global issue, as forests play a pivotal role in maintaining the health of our ecosystems, as well as the health of all the animals and humans that inhabit them. Yet, forests are continuously cut down at an alarming rate in order to make room for human - [December 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2022-2/) - The dry season is a beautiful time of year to visit Cloudbridge, and we are happy to be receiving many guests who come to hike the reserve or stay in our rental cabins. Likewise we have been enjoying the participation and engagement of a number of excellent researchers and volunteers from Costa Rica and around - [Hummingbird behavior in the Cloud Forest](https://www.cloudbridge.org/hummingbird-behavior-in-the-cloud-forest/) - With at least 17 different hummingbird species found at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, it’s important to understand their behavior and feeding habits so that we can best preserve their habitat. With that being said, how exactly does a hummingbird forage, and what affects it? Would that behavior change if there was an artificial hummingbird feeder present? - [November 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2022/) - True to its name, the emerald glass frog (Espadarana prosoblepon) is somewhat transparent. Photo credit: Alvaro Zamora. The end of the rainy season is in sight and we have certainly been keeping ourselves busy. Beginning with our participation in a workshop to help define a new conservation category not based on government protection, and ending - [October 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2022/) - October is the height of the rainy season in our part of Costa Rica, and we certainly did receive quite a bit of rain! Towards the beginning of the month, various countries in Central America felt the effects of the Tropical Storm Julia. Large amounts of rain fell throughout the country, causing some damages in - [September 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2022/) - September is the height of the rainy season, and also the month in which 201 years ago, Costa Rica and other Central countries obtained their independence from Spain. This is a special time in which children and adults alike participate in patriotic activities, including traditional dance, a parade with torches representing the means of illumination - [August 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2022/) - Chirripó National Park is an important presence in our area, and this month was the celebration of it´s 47th anniversary. At the park administrator´s request, Cloudbridge participated with environmental education activities at local schools, among other activities. Earlier this month we were delighted to receive board member Valerie Brown, her husband Ken and the friend - [July 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2022/) - Though July is usually a relatively low season, this month we have had a full house of researchers and volunteers, in addition to various visiting professors and groups. And to cap it off, we were able to participate in the first edition of the Festival for Coexistence, organized by Oncilla Conservation and their allies in - [June 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2022/) - This month we inaugurated our fabulous research lab with the first Cloud Forest Festival, with educational stands and amazing local talent. This first edition of the Cloud Forest Festival was a resounding success! We invite you to check out these beautiful songs in our lab by Lumina Om and Vyola Myst. Other activities at the - [May 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2022/) - As soon as the lab was made ready earlier this month, our researchers moved in and have been making excellent use of this wonderful space. We are so pleased with this successful construction project, which was made possible due to the contributions of many people who have in some way been touched by Cloudbridge Nature - [April 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2022/) - The rainy season has begun in earnest this April. Here at Cloudbridge, that hasn´t slowed down our excellent local crew of builders, who have built our new research lab. We are very grateful to all the donors who have made the manifestation of this dream a reality : ) San Gerardo de Rivas is - [February 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2022/) - February has been another good month for us here at Cloudbridge. It is the dry season, so even though the forest remains lush, we do not currently have water dripping off the moss, the way it does most of the year. But this is a very exciting season, because the Quetzales are nesting, - [March 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2022/) - This month we were delighted to have Cloudbridge´s original founder Jenny Giddy visit us and break ground on our new research lab, 20 years after she and her husband began manifesting their dream of restoring degraded cattle pastures to the magnificent tropical cloud forest. Having various long-time friends of Cloudbridge take part in this - [January 2022](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2022/) - Photo credit: Madelyn Peterson Happy Twentieth Anniversary to Cloudbridge! In 2002, Ian and Jenny Giddy purchased mountainous terrain that was being used for pasture, with the intention of restoring the magnificent biodiversity of the cloudforest to what is now Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Over the years, Cloudbridge has been able to reforest 255 hectares of land - [December 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2022/) - From our team here at Cloudbridge, we hope that you have all enjoyed this holiday season in the company of your loved ones. We have been enjoying the company of a lovely group of researchers and volunteers, who were able to share together the festivities of the season. We have also enjoyed an increase in - [November 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2021/) - The rainy season is coming to an end, and the Holidays are near. November has been a great month at the Reserve, with a lovely team of Volunteers and Researchers. One of the exciting activities that we are engaging in before the end of 2021 is a Fundraiser Campaign, to help Cloudbridge build a Research - [October 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2021/) - October has been another productive month here at Cloudbridge. Though it's the height of the rainy season, we have a great group of researchers and volunteers and have been keeping ourselves busy: putting up signs, repairing bridges, helping with the recycling and of course, conducting research : ) Another exciting development this month was the - [September 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2021/) - September is Costa Rica's patriotic month, as on September 15th, 1821, Central American countries including Costa Rica were granted their sovereign independence from Spain. This year is the countries bicentennial, and though the festivities were of course quite muted given the current public health situation, it was still fondly celebrated in the hearts of those - [August 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2021/) - August has been a rainy and relatively quiet month here at Cloudbridge. We are quite happy to have welcomed Río Dante Barrantes Para as our new science coordinator, his knowledge of local fauna is a constant source of inspiration. And of course, we wish the best to our previous coordinator, Paula Pebsworth. We feel quite - [July 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2021/) - July has been a great month here at Cloudbridge. What with participating in the Latin American Climate Reality Virtual Training, hosting a wilderness safety course, tree-planting, and interesting research projects, the month has passed in a blur... In July 2020, Cloudbridge ́s executive director completed the Global Virtual Climate Reality Training. One year later, she - [June 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2021/) - June has been another great month at Cloudbridge, with talented photographers taking great pictures, and fun activities. From astrophotography to the "heart of the cloudforest", take a look at what has been going on at Coudbridge this month! June 15th was National Tree Day here in Costa Rica. And followers of the blog don´t need - [May 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2021/) - May has been another good month for us here at Cloudbridge, we have some great researchers who have been enjoying their time here on the reserve, and getting some great shots. This month we have also continued with some ongoing research collaboration with Dr. Michael Mooring, evaluating carnivores in Chirripó National Park using camera traps. - [April 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2021/) - April has been a busy month for us here at Cloudbridge, with Earth Day, environmental education activities, and many researchers and volunteers! We are pleased to have the fun energy here, of people who are passionate about their research projects, and enjoying each other´s company and the beautiful natural environment of Cloudbridge. We request a - [March 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2021/) - We are thankful for the many research interns and volunteers who have joined us over the last couple of months, enabling us to conduct more surveys and other research tasks on the reserve. The camaraderie of our lovely group has been great! This month we have acted on the advice of one of our herping - [February 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2021/) - Quetzal season is here! We have been lucky enough to view multiple pairs over the last month, including near the nesting boxes that we have placed around the reserve. Over the last three years we have placed nesting boxes in strategic locations throughout the reserve, and though pairs have come to inspect them and spend - [January 2021](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2021/) - We hope that this New Year of 2021 will bring many blessings, health and happiness to all! On a global scale, we trust that this year we will be able to put the Covid-19 pandemic behind us, in addition to taking aggressive action on the climate crisis. In this part of Costa Rica, it is - [December 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2020/) - Happy holidays! From all of us here at Cloudbridge, we hope you have been able to enjoy your holiday season in the company of your loved ones. Here on the Reserve, we are very thankful for all of the visitors who have been coming to the reserve, and for the company of our "bubble" of - [November 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2020/) - All in all November has been a good month for Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Though we got off to a wet start, thanks to Hurricane Eta, we are very thankful to have not suffered any severe effects from this storm. In the United States, November is the month of Thanksgiving. Though this holiday should be examined - [October 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2020/) - October is one of the rainiest months in this part of Costa Rica, and usually relatively slow in terms of visitors to the reserve. But for the most part we continue to have beautiful sunny mornings, and visitors still come and enjoy the natural, lush beauty of Cloudbridge. We are so thankful to be receiving - [September 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2020/) - September is Costa Rica´s patriotic month, when the country celebrates it´s Independence from Spanish colonization on the 15th of September of 1821. This date is usually celebrated with parades and civic activities, but this year most of these celebrations were held virtually. These truly are strange times we are living in, so much has moved - [August 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2020/) - August has been another quiet month here at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. The classroom and dorms for the researchers have never since they were built, been so quiet and lonely for such a long period of time. We are hopeful that now that Costa Rica has opened its borders to certain countries and US states, more - [July 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2020/) - July has been a busy month here at Cloudbridge. Though we are still officially closed, and don´t have any researchers or volunteers at the moment, we have kept our camera trap program going and made some improvements around base, including a new social area (for once the researchers return!). We have also launched a crowdfunding - [June 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2020/) - Though June has been another difficult month for many people around the world who have been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, here at Cloudbridge we have been extremely fortunate to be surrounded by nature and have the opportunity to practice some reforestation! Keeping to our own social bubbles, we have been able to plant - [May 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2020/) - We are very excited to have captured images of this lovely jaguar on one of our camera traps! After being closed to the general public for two months, we are pleased to have reopened the reserve beginning on May 16th. Thank you to all of the visitors who have come to get a dose of - [April 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2020/) - April has been an unusual month, at Cloudbridge and the world over. Many countries have effectively "shut down" to prevent the spread of Covid-19, and Costa Rica has not been the exception. In the case of our small Central American nation, these efforts have been fruitful, as the caseloads have remained quite small, not even - [March 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2020/) - March has been a month of great changes on the global scale. Here in Costa Rica, society seems to have entered into a state of hibernation, with all parks, markets, beaches and social gatherings shut down. The government has requested that we all practice social distancing, to ease the load on the public health system. - [February 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2020/) - February is one of San Gerardo´s most exciting months, as this is when the Chirripó Race occurs each year. The race weekend is accompanied by many festivities, along with the sale of food prepared by the local community. Cloudbridge´s researchers, volunteers and staff were able to help out with chopping vegetables and more, which was - [January 2020](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2020/) - At Cloudbridge, we started off the new year (and new decade) right with two weeks of inspiring visits from 11th and 12th graders from the Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science. This study abroad program, coordinated through Western Kentucky University, is designed to introduce students to a Costa Rican cloud forest, including the flora and - [December 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2019-2/) - December has been a lively month at Cloudbridge. On Christmas Day, we gathered for an afternoon of festivities, including a highly competitive game of croquet, pictured above. We also shared international foods in a community potluck. Here, our bird intern Amauta dishes up traditional rice porridge, a recipe from her family in Norway. One lucky person - [November 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2019/) - Two male White-crested Coquettes having a territorial dispute. Photo credit: Laura Hulbert October went out with a bang with our Halloween party, held on the Day of the Dead. After the party, we had to gather our strength at the river. November has been a very productive month. We've had interns arrive, and have moved - [August 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2019/) - Research and Volunteers: Dylan presented the preliminary results on a new camera trapping program we have been setting up in the reserve. The new program has set up 8 cameras in the reserve, that we rotate through 16 locations every 2 weeks. This allows us to cover more locations in the reserve with fewer resources, - [October 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2019/) - October has been another fun and exciting month here at Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. As many of you know, October can be a rainy time of year in our part of Costa Rica, but this year it hasn´t been too bad. We have a great team right now, and have been moving forward with various projects. - [September 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2019/) - September is Costa Rica´s civic month - the country´s Independence is celebrated on the 15th, with parades, folkloric dance, singing of patriotic hymns and delicious typical food. In 1821, Central America (including Costa Rica) was granted Independence from Spain, which had colonized the region beginning in the 16th century. Celebrations also include a “desfile de - [July 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2019/) - We welcome Carrie Visintainer the new manager of the Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Carrie’s just arrived at Cloudbridge from Colorado. With a background in communications and non-profit management, she's taking on responsibility for the overall management of the reserve, working closely with the volunteers and local employees. She has a deep love for wild places and - [June 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2019/) - Research: Jonathan Slifkin was here for 3 months continuing the work of Izzy Soane and Jeffrey Roth on studying Mixed Species Feeding Flocks (MSF) in the reserve. Mixed species feeding flocks are just that, flocks of birds of at least 2 different species moving and feeding together. While they are found around the world, they - [September 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2018/) - Upon seeing the deforestation in the Chirripo valley, Ian said, “Let’s come back and buy some land for reforestation”. Three months later, they returned to Costa Rica, drove around the country looking at properties, and coincidentally, found land on the slopes of Mt Chirripo. The first piece they bought was - [October 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2018/) - Research and Volunteers: Nina Biburger - Germany Hi, my name is Nina, I am 21 years old and study landscape architecture and planning at the technical university of Munich. As a part of my semester abroad I am staying at the Cloudbridge Reserve for one month as a volunteer. - [November 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2018/) - Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky. Ranindranath Tagore Research: Here are the recent research reports that can be found on our website. http://www.cloudbridge.org/ Alena Frehner’s report on “The influence of habitat factors on species richness and - [December 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2019/) - Research and Volunteers: Marissa Romp finished up a 5 month diurnal (active during the day) mammal density study this month. She was comparing the quality of density estimates using Distance software using three different field survey techniques: line transects, point counts, and camera trapping. The Distance method takes into account that during surveys some animals - [May 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2018/) - Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is a birding hotspot for discovering lower montane cloud forest birds. May was an active month as it is the breeding season for many of the species here. These collared Trogans were hanging around chirping and calling to claim territory and find mates. We get the benefit of watching these beauties everyday. - [November 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2017/) - Research and Volunteers: Tim, Timo and Feite setting up butterfly traps on 11/27/17 Annika and Jordan wrapped up their study on warbler interactions this month. They looked at how migratory and resident warblers interacted with other birds (whether they were displaying cooperative, neutral, aggressive, or submissive behaviours), and who they were interacting - [December 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2017/) - Research and Volunteers: Brie presented her tropical bird monitoring research. She has been here since September and was one of the volunteers who experienced tropical storm Nate. The storm added another element to her research. She filled us all in on the protocols for bird monitoring, touching on the survey schedules, described the - [February 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2018/) - Research and volunteers: This is the month for bird presentations as some of our researchers are wrapping up their time at Cloudbridge. Roopak Bhatt completed his bird monitoring study this month. From November through January he monitored the bird species for our reserve data base as well as adding to the online database - [January 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2018/) - Research and Volunteers: Selina "I'm Selina Mellin and I am from Gibraltar. I have had a passion for wildlife since before I can remember and have undertaken various wildlife conservation trips in the past. This time I chose to pursue a wildlife conservation internship which would grant me the incredible opportunity to spend six - [March 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2018/) - Research and Volunteers: My name is Janina Harms and I am from Germany. I am a 22 year old girl studying Animal Management in the Netherlands. As long as I can remember, my life has been centered around animals, whether that be pets, animals from a farm, a sanctuary or wildlife. And almost equally - [April 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2018/) - BE THE CHANGE ON EARTH DAY AND EVERYDAY OF THE YEAR! For 2018 the focus on Earth Day is to help end plastic pollution. For now we at Cloudbridge are helping to recycle in our community by sorting and bagging items to be sent away for processing. The problem that remains is that the world - [June 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2018/) - Research and Volunteers: Hello, I’m Gaia Wilson and I’m from England. I am currently studying my Masters in Wildlife Biology and Conservation part-time and I was working full time but decided to leave my job and come to Latin America for a few months. I wanted to learn more about the Costa Rican way - [July 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2018/) - Cloud Forest Fungi Research and Volunteers: My name is Eli and I’m 21 years old from Wales, UK. I’ve just finished my second year at The University of Manchester studying Zoology with French. I came to Cloudbridge as a volunteer, having already spent two weeks in Costa Rica on a field course - [August 2018](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2018/) - The rainy afternoons this time of year create some amazing rich green colors in the forest. As the rainy season continues there is good reason to visit this area if you don't mind a little moisture. The lushness of the forest, swelling rivers, and dramatic waterfalls are all a sight to see. Research and - [January 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2019/) - Study Abroad: Our new year started off with two busy weeks of hosting 39 students and staff from Gatton Academy of Western Kentucky University. This is the 9th year for their Annual Gatton Academy Research Symposium at Cloudbridge. Three credits are earned through this honors class 'Costa Rican Biodiversity Studies and Research'. The students from - [February 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2019/) - In January 2018 Alyce Straub started a project constructing six quetzal nest boxes. Unfortunately she needed to leave prior to completion. Frank Spooner & Arran Redman later installed five of the boxes throughout Cloudbridge. One remained, so Tom placed the remaining one in a Mexican Elm in front of his house. Nest boxes were monitored - [March 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2019/) - Volunteers: We were fortunate to have a number of great volunteers in March. Volunteers worked on; Painting buildings, tree maintenance and clearing around seedlings, sign design and painting, educational material development, and step building and trail maintenance. They also got involved in the community road paving project mixing concrete. Volunteers included; Jenny Todino - US, Samantha Dejean - - [April 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2019/) - Recent Reviews We do like to hear from our visitors. Thank you for sending in reviews on Trip Advisor and Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/cloudbridge.nature.reserve/ https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g309263-d4174164-Reviews-Cloudbridge_Nature_Reserve-Chirripo_National_Park_Province_of_San_Jose.html#REVIEWS Photos of some of our reviewers enjoying their experiences at Cloudbridge. Trip Advisor Review: Forget Monteverde, Go Here instead: "I spent two months in Costa Rica and my one day spent at - [May 2019](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2019/) - Annoucement : Cloudbridge is under new ownership! Genevieve (Jenny) Giddy is proud to announce that Cloudbridge Nature Reserve and Educational Centre, located in the cloud forest of the Talamanca Mountain range of Southern Costa Rica has been acquired by Salish Coast Land and Marine Conservation Association from the United States. It also has a 530 - [October 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2017/) - Hurricane Nate decided to leave a little parting gift for Costa Rica as it passed by on its way northward. Torrential rain came down throughout the country causing landslides, road closures and loss of homes and bridges. Cloudbridge was also the recipient of rain falling for days from the grey cloudy sky. Our water systems, - [Sept 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/sept-2017/) - We are once again the midst of rainy season. This is what sustains our new planted trees, provides the tropical forests with moisture and sustenance, and is a period of growth and renewal. Research: Amy Sutley, one of our bird monitoring interns, presented a summary of the bird data that has been collected at - [August 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2017/) - Welcoming conservationists from France, the Netherlands, England, Columbia, the US, Canada, and Germany this month, we have had too much fun. This great group has been hitting the trail, conducting day and night time research, planting trees, and finding some time for ultimate Frisbee and football. For several months, we have been planning to get - [July 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2017/) - It has been such a fun month here at Cloudbridge! School is out for summer, which means we have students from around the world joining us! Our thirst for information about the cloud forest has been insatiable. Students are studying all kinds of cool stuff: soils, birds, moths, frogs, reforestation, and everything in between. We - [June 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2017/) - It has been a rainy month on the reserve and the plants and animals are dripping wet! The vegetation is very lush and green and the waterfalls are operating at maximum levels of beauty. We have had a rich month of company and activities, thanks for stopping by to get caught up with the news! - [May 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2017/) - Research and Volunteers: Augie Blackman is finishing up their biology major at Oberlin College in Ohio, USA. Augie will be researching the geographical distribution of the frogs here at Cloudbridge. More specifically, they will be looking into how canopy cover and vegetation type influences species composition. They enjoy working with amphibians and reptiles, and have - [April 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2017/) - We celebrated Earth Day by offering free tours at the reserve. Bird watching, information on the history of the reserve, and an explanation of the flora and fauna were included in a Spanish speaking tour with local residents and one tourist, and an English speaking tour that included a few visiting guests and tourists. Later - [March 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2017/) - Internet Education: Educational distance learning through video conference is a way for us to bring the cloud forest to the classroom. We organized a three way skype call that included Linda and Jenn from Cloudbridge, Pedro from the Toucan Rescue Ranch in San Jose, and the grade 4 and 5 class from Georges Vanier - [February 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2017/) - Old Growth Forest At The Cloudbridge Nature Reserve Research and Volunteers: David Reinhard is a cinematographer from France. He is taking a break between films to travel Central America. In the past he filmed a documentary about primary - [January 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2017/) - Finally it is the New Year – 2017. Not that we have been waiting for it to happen. But, 2016 seemed to come with its challenges - Politics, climate change impacts, race and cultural relations etc. With world leadership uncertainties and now possible new environmental policies in the US that could effect us all - [Study Abroad in Costa Rica - Gatton Academy 2017](https://www.cloudbridge.org/study-abroad-in-costa-rica-gatton-academy-2017/) - Every year we look forward to the visit from the students of The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science (part of Western Kentucky University). This educational institution has received numerous accolades throughout the years and is named among the top-preforming high schools across the United States. Their visit to Costa Rica includes a turtle - [December 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2016/) - Merry Christmas from all of us at Cloudbridge! Our Christmas and holiday celebration also included guests staying at our Casita Blanca, friends and neighbours. Donations: A big thank you to the Krishnan family from Conneticut who were with us over Christmas. They enjoyed the reserve so much that they donated $500.00 to purchase some - [November 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2016/) - Community Tree Planting: We had our annual community tree planting day a little later than usual this year. With all of the rain this season the trees should have sufficient moisture to establish in an area surrounded by secondary forest on the reserve. We planted about 70 trees along the Gavilan trail. - [October 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2016/) - Capturing the photo of the Jaguar at Cloudbrdge marks the return of Central America's ultimate predator and a sign of the improved health of the Cloudbridge environment. It has been amazing to watch the wildlife return as Cloudbridge has transitioned from barren cattle pastures to an evolving secondary cloud forest. To see what two individuals, - [September 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-2016/) - This butterfly plate shows just how difficult it is to do identifications. We have recently found 2 rare species (new to Cloudbridge) of butterflies- one was back in June and the other at the beginning of September. While Alex Acott was here in June he found a male Consul panariste jansoni a rare - [August 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-2016/) - Traversing the river - Take off the boots and step carefully on those slippery rocks Left to right, Emma Moore USA, Florian (Flo) Hammer & Katharina Lutz both from Germany Research: Jenn Powell, our biologist, attended a conference and then later a 2nd visit to our neighbors - Los Nubes Reserve. This - [July 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2016/) - Researchers from the University of Central Florida (UCF) and the University of Costa Rica (UCR) discovered a new species of snake in Costa Rica. This species resides in the cloud forests of the Talamanca mountain range, which is where our reserve is. The research has been published in the July 15 online issue of - [June 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2016/) - Across the world the earth's living systems are experiencing extreme summer heat and other drastic weather conditions. 2016 is already the hottest year on record, with India and other regions experiencing record shattering temperatures, and scientists are speaking about the rapid melting of Arctic ice. Everyday, we witness countless clear indications of our changing world - [May 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2016/) - Our favorite time of year - Tree Planting Season New Volunteers: Emma Moore - Conneticut, USA "I really want to learn about Costa Rican flora and fauna. I look forward to helping the reforestation project by planting trees and maintaining existing nurseries. I am looking for a hands-on biology learning experience and an opportunity to - [April 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2016/) - Volunteers: Corinna Franke – Germany Corinna graduated from school and after this exciting break she will start university in the fall. She has been travelling for 6 months. Previous to Costa Rica she was in Guatemala where she took Spanish classes. The idea of travel was to study a new language - [March 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2016/) - As the dry season is slowly passing we are reminded of how important moisture is for our forest. It is an extremely dry year with record warm temperatures in this normally cool moist cloud forest. Some of our recently planted trees don't look like they will come out of it very well. Others are hanging - [February 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2016/) - Our tree nursery is a vital part of the Cloudbridge fight against climate change. Planting trees helps to cool the earth and take in and store CO2. Newly grown rainforests can absorb 11 times as much carbon from the atmosphere as old-growth forests because they are actively growing. Old growth forests still need to be - [January 2016](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2016/) - Education: 16 students from Gatton Academy, Western Kentucky University were at Cloudbridge (under the direction of Dr. Keith Philips) through our Study Abroad program. We divided into 5 groups with group leaders guiding them in the studies of dung beetles, carbon capture in forest successions, butterflies, plant monitoring, and the symbiotic relationship between - [December 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2015/) - We end our year with the satisfaction of good work achieved at the reserve in 2015 and our wish is for a healthy and safe planet for everyone in the New Year! May the refugees find new homes and be welcomed around the world. We hope for peace and tolerance of cultural differences. May there be - [November 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2015/) - Photo by Frank Spooner Volunteers: Dr. Bob from Maine is back again this year as a volunteer. His medical services in the past have been used on occasion, but for the most part we are hoping that won't be needed and he can focus on his other many skills including carpentry, electrical and plumbing. - [October 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2015/) - Volunteers and Research: Jen Powell - Toronto Canada Jen is continuing a study comparing amphibian presence across various levels of forest regeneration on the reserve. She hopes to be able to set up a standard protocol that will allow the study to be continued by future volunteers. This information will help monitor how frogs - [August and September 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/august-and-september-2015/) - "We don't need to clear the 4 to 6 percent of the Earth's surface remaining in tropical rain forests, with most of the animal and plant species living there." E.O. Wilson Volunteers and Researchers: We said goodbye to our group of volunteers Emillee Hernandez (Canada), Alexie Rudman (USA), Nainika Lamba (India) all studying - [July 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2015/) - Volunteers and Research: Fabian Konopka from Germany spent 3 months at Cloudbridge. His enthusiasm for learning and experiencing the rainforest was infectious and we all enjoyed his stay here. Here is his account of this volunteer opportunity: "Dear people and volunteers out there, My name is Fabian. I am 21 years old and I - [June 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2015/) - Volunteers: ARO - Quebec, Canada. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Leila Paul, Shari Reuter, and Tobi Zimmerman all from Germany arel volunteering at Cloudbridge. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Weekly potluck dinners Always something to do: There is never a dull moment when managing a reserve. This month the waterline up the mountain separated causing a large amount of - [May 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2015/) - Research: Kendall Delyser (Colorado, US) finished her research and presented her results. Her research spanned from January to May 2015 Assessing the effectiveness of reforestation in the tropical montane forests of Costa Rica. Questions: Does the manual planting of trees significantly improve the progress of regeneration back to a climax state? Does - [April 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2015/) - After a huge conservation push and a wave of forest regrowth, trees now blanket more than half of Costa Rica. -Justin Gilles, - [March 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2014-2/) - Research: Ellie and Andrea wrapped up their time at Cloudbridge with a presentation on their bird point counts and camera trap surveys. Research is still on-going for Kendell, Clarice, and Jasper. Arriving from France, Noemie Soton will be studying sustainable farming in Costa Rica, and Emilie Kauffmann is researching frogs in various forest - [February 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2014-2/) - More than 100 species of green glass frogs exist, all in the family Centrolenidae. Transparent green glass frogs, named for their translucent skin, are not easy to find and observe. Their green tint blends with their environment, and they inhabit remote areas. Green glass frogs give short, high-frequency chirps, although there is - [January 2015](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2015/) - Verano is here. That is Spanish for summer or as they like to call it in Costa Rica - 'The Dry Season'. It is the time of year when we see migratory birds returning, many species active in building nests and attracting mates. The rains have quit for the most part and the trees - [December 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2014/) - Watching the clouds invade the valley along the river can be a surreal experience. The trees fade away at different levels and then reappear like ghosts as they emerge from the thick fog. Simply sitting silently and witnessing this transformation is a great excuse for idleness! Everyone needs moments like this. - [November 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2014/) - Some great bird watching this month: Bird Watching: Manuel, Pemela, Estelle, and Roy - guides from Manuel Antonio Park have been visiting Cloudbridge with plans to bring some of their birding clients up for a hike in the cloud forest. We spent the morning hiking with them and learning from their expertise. What - [July - October 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-october-2014/) - Sunny mornings and rainy afternoons......tis the season. This is definitely the season for tree planting. Besides some planting that took place on the reserve filling in along the ridge lines and replacement plantings, we also took part in a community tree planting project. Cloudbridge along with participants from the local hotels, the community, and - [June 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2014/) - Volunteers: When people give their time, energy, and skills to volunteer at Cloudbridge they are helping the environment by contributing to the reserve's many needs. Usually the volunteers also benefit personally by gaining new interests and learning new skills. They have the chance to develop new friendships with other volunteers and people in the - [May 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2014/) - May is the beginning of planting season with the return of the rains. Difficult growing areas on the reserve such as the ridge lines still need a few trees. We also do enhancement plantings where there are predominantly only pioneer species growing. Introducing some of the canopy species underneath the faster growing trees has proven - [April 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2014/) - The tree ferns are a taxonomic division of the fern class. They are different from ferns in that they have a type of trunk that holds up the huge fronds, up to 12 meters high. It is not a true trunk but rather rhizomes from which the fronds develop. On Cloudbridge the species probably fall into the - [March 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2014/) - Volunteers/Researchers: The group ARO from Quebec sent two groups this month to help out with transplanting seedlings and other misc. work in the tree nursery, as well as annual road maintenance. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Bob stayed until mid month and rewired a few of our older buildings. Thanks Bob for all of your help these past - [February 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2014/) - Visitors: The group "Wilderness Inquiry" brought another eager bunch of visitors to Costa Rica to explore the forests and beaches. They came up to Cloudbridge for a day hike. They hiked to the water falls, along the river trail and across both bridges guided by Tom and Linda. What a fun group. Two of them, Mary and Mary - [January 2014](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2014/) - New Resident Welcome to Cloudbridge. We have waited a long time to have our first siting of a sloth on the reserve! Maybe he has been here awhile....who knows. They are very difficult to spot but this one just happened to be coming down a tree near one of our trails when a group of - [December 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2013/) - These photos of a jaguar were taken by a camera trap in the next valley over from Cloudbridge. This is the closest siting to the reserve of these beautiful cats. Volunteers/Research Clarice Esch returned to Cloudbridge to continue her research on the plant Gunnera. This is her 4th stay at the reserve. It's beginning to feel like home. - [November 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-2013/) - This month the Capuchin monkeys have wandered across the river into the trees close to the volunteer casa. On one occasion a local family had walked up from San Gerardo to Cloudbridge for a hike and were passing by when we were viewing the monkeys. We invited them to join us and the children were so - [October 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2013/) - The Peaks of Uran against an unusual blue sky for October The rainiest month of the year has been a mixed bag of some sunny days, some cloudy days, and some very rainy days. It does seem though that we are getting less moisture throughout this rainy season. Hopefully it will be sufficient to give a decent start for all - [August/September 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/augustseptember-2013/) - "Always have a dream that lasts longer than a lifetime" Jack Layton ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Reflecting: It has been almost 12 years since the reserve first started the reforestation project. The old stumps still loom within the new forest as if to serve as a reminder of their inescapable demise. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Volunteers: Josh was a lawyer who left that occupation and is - [June/July 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/junejuly-2013/) - "But I'll tell you what hermits realize. If you go off into a far, far forest and get very quiet, you'll come to understand that you're connected with everything." Alan Watts ________________________________________________________________ Welcome back Holly Mckelvey. Holly is a former GVI researcher who has returned temporarily to take over as manager while Tom is away - [May 2013 , Back to the Rainy Season and Tree Planting](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2013-back-to-the-rainy-season-and-tree-planting/) - Mount Uran covered in cloud. A view from the researcher's casita. Tree Planting in a Recovering Cloudforest: It’s a Saturday morning and we are packing small seedlings into our backpacks and gathering tools for the trek up the mountain. Even though this is our day off from normal reserve activities Tom and I are heading - [April 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2013/) - April showers bring.....many creatures out. Research and Volunteering We had four presentations this month as people finished up their research and shared their data and experiences. Crissy and her son Daniel's evening bat collecting resulted in the identification of 8 species. Her presentation included information on their habitat, diet, and interesting nocturnal activities. Almost everyone here at Cloudbridge took a turn - [March 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2013/) - Research Crissy and her son Daniel (Florida, US) are in the midst of a bat survey at Cloudbridge. There has been research done at lower elevations in Costa Rica, but investigations at higher elevations has been limited. It will be interesting to see how many species will be identified here. Miriam (North Dakota, US) joined us to study the - [February 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2013/) - February Blooms February saw Cloudbridge hosting 15 researchers, volunteers and guests, wow what a month! New Volunteers and Researchers this month: In February Cloudbridge was fortunate to have Bastian and Nuria (Germany) walk into the reserve and volunteer to help. Bastian brings a great deal of carpentry skills and Nuria is a great assistant. Within - [January 2013](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2013/) - Cloudbridge started off the new year with a full house of people volunteering and researching. Katy from Australia and Meghna from the UK are our latest GVI interns and they are continuing with the ongoing biological survey. The survey intends to provide a database of information for future researchers as well as document the changes in - [October 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-2012/) - Zenobia Barlow, “Confluence of Streams” "Children are born with a sense of wonder and an affinity for Nature. Properly cultivated, these values can mature into ecological literacy, and eventually into sustainable patterns of living." This month we celebrate the education of reforestation with our community through a community tree planting project. This was a group effort through - [August/September 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/augustseptember-2012/) - Keep close to Nature's heart....and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean." John Muir Activities and Research: September was a good month for trail work with less tourists in the area. We constructed a trail up the quebrada yorro to a - [July 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-2012/) - Photo by Rolando Zuniga Salaza What we are doing to the forests of the world is but a mirror reflection of what we are doing to ourselves and to one another.” ― Mahatma Gandhi Volunteers planting oak up Sendero Montana July Blooms Orchids at Cloudbridge July has been a very busy month, stretching our housing - [June 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june-2012/) - The Sentinel Younger Sentinel - 6 years earlier Hiking to the Sentinel. Not an easy task. Projects: June has been a busy month of people coming and going. Marlos continues her weed suppression study. We all joined in to help plant trees up on her plots. “What an irony it is that - [May 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-2012/) - “Planting trees, I myself thought for a long time, was a feel-good thing, a nice but feeble response to our litany of modern-day environmental problems. In the last few years, though, as I have read many dozens of articles and books and interviewed scientists here and abroad, my thinking on the issue has changed. Planting - [April 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-2012/) - Construction of an additional cabina for research housing has begun. We have installed a new product for the roof manufactured by Dos Pinos Co. Costa Rica’s largest milk producer. They recycle the tetra paks into sheets of láminas. Tom working on the Cabina Volunteers Tom from the UK is travelling central America - [March 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march-2012/) - The many changing colors and moods of a cloudforest make this a magical place. Notes from visitors: "Thank you for opening your beautiful reserve to wayfaring birdwatchers" Gwen Baluss "Thank you very much for sharing your beautiful land. May it always stay this way!" Kate & Vince "Sigan adelante con la conservación. Noble misión!" Juan Jose - [February 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2012/) - Cloudbridge continues to work at building bridges with communities, schools, and groups both locally and internationally for shared meaning and to learn to collaborate in powerful ways. The learning curve towards sustainable reforestation is achieved with the help of many participants. Cloudbridge is about positive action and commitment to renewal of a complex ecosystem and - [January 2012](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2012/) - Here's to looking forward to a new year of research, education, and reforestation efforts at the Cloudbridge reserve. We are grateful to have Adam Wicks-Arshack back with us as the resident biologist. His knowledge and enthusiasm for helping out with the education programs and guided tours is always appreciated by students, volunteers, and the visiting tourists - [November](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november/) - By means of trees, wildlife could be conserved, pollution decreased and the beauty of our landscapes enhanced. This is the way, or at least one of the ways, to spiritual, moral, and cultural regeneration. -- E.F.Shumaker November has been a month of construction nearing completion on the classroom and preparation - [September/October](https://www.cloudbridge.org/septemberoctober/) - October is the rainy month and the rivers are running high. What do we do when it is raining here? We research, paint, do carpentry, cook and eat great meals, and take Spanish lessons. Luke, Frank, Kailen, Tom and Linda are all taking lessons. Necesitamos mucha practica! Alex our Spanish teacher, and snake tamer! There seems to - [July and August](https://www.cloudbridge.org/july-and-august/) - I willingly confess to so great a partiality for trees as tempts me to respect a man in exact proportion to his respect for them. ~James Russell Lowell During June and July we again got to enjoy five interns from Agrosup, Dijon, France, A National Institute of Agronomy, all five are working on their Masters - [June](https://www.cloudbridge.org/june/) - “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the next best time is now’ Chinese proverb In June –July we are again hosting five interns from Agrosup Dijon, France, Laura, Sebastian, Elisa, Flore & Marie are conducting research in three areas including, Bio-monitoring, Large Mammal Monitoring and a community survey of - [May Research and Bandera Azul](https://www.cloudbridge.org/may-research-and-bandera-azul/) - Cloudbridge Reserve awarded Bandera Azul Ecologica for its protection of the environment and conservation of natural resources. Previously Cloudbridge was awarded the coveted blue flag with one star, for 2010 we received three stars. Many thanks to Linda Moskalyk, Jill and John Titan, and Rolando Zuñiga Salazar who assisted Tom throughout the year and especially - [Creating Art at Cloudbridge](https://www.cloudbridge.org/creating-art-at-cloudbridge/) - This is an amazing place to create art. I have been painting here for almost a year and would like to share a series with you. “Portraits of Survivors” Images of large trees emerge through layers of acrylic paint and collage on stretched canvas in my series titled “Portraits of Survivors”. This body of work - [Dutchie Pancakes](https://www.cloudbridge.org/dutchie-pancakes/) - These pancakes are worth making. Our Dutch researcher Michiel made them for us several times. We ate them with whipped cream fresh mango and syrup. mmmmm Michiel’s Dutchie Pancakes Flour – at least 4 cups 1 Tbsp sugar 1 tsp salt Baking powder – a little Add 2 eggs. Beat Add milk – at least - [April at Cloudbridge](https://www.cloudbridge.org/april-at-cloudbridge/) - If you are thinking a year ahead, sow a seed. If you are thinking ten years ahead, plant a tree. If you are thinking one hundred years ahead, educatate the people. Chinese proverb 500 BC We are once again entering the rainy season. There are just hints of it with some sunny days - [A Different Kind Of Hike](https://www.cloudbridge.org/a-different-kind-of-hike/) - We went on a very unique kind of hike with a group of students from Beacon High School, New York City. We decided to take our long time employee, Victor with us to learn a little about cultural history of the area. Victor grew up on a farm in the Talamanca mountains. He eventually sold - [March](https://www.cloudbridge.org/march/) - We had two hikers who decided to have a little adventure and went off the trail. They were gone for two nights and three days lost in the forest. The police, Red Cross, the community and the Cloudbridge volunteers were all involved in the search effort. They were ultimately found; tired, cold, and hungry but not - [February 2011](https://www.cloudbridge.org/february-2011/) - The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit. -- Nelson Henderson This month we improved our maintenance trail with the help of Hocking College from Ohio. The trail is now wider and easier to navigate over while carrying trees and equipment. We are - [January 2011](https://www.cloudbridge.org/january-2011/) - People who will not sustain trees will soon live in a world which cannot sustain people. -- Bryce Nelson The new year started off with the annual board meeting. Genevieve was here to review the past year and help with the wish list of projects and ideas for 2011....and there seem to be many! - [December 2010](https://www.cloudbridge.org/december-2010/) - By means of trees, wildlife could be conserved, pollution decreased and the beauty of our landscapes enhanced. This is the way, or at least one of the ways, to spiritual, moral, and cultural regeneration. -- E.F. Schumacher What is interesting about the montane tropical forests is the surprisingly slow rate of growth after - [November News](https://www.cloudbridge.org/november-news/) - November was a very cloudy, wet month. There was record rainfall throughout the Central Valley and along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. While there were many landslides throughout the country the Cloudbridge Reserve sustained no damage. All of the tree planting has paid off as we seem to have good soil retention on our slopes. We are - [October Happenings](https://www.cloudbridge.org/october-happenings/) - This time of year brings alot of rain to Costa Rica. We still managed to keep busy and take advantage of the sunny mornings before the clouds rolled in. Students from Claremont College in California are studying at the Firestone Reserve near Dominical. They came up to spend a day at Cloudbridge. We lucked out with good - [A Volunteer Report by Art Isbell and Inger Lidman](https://www.cloudbridge.org/a-volunteer-report-by-art-isbell-and-inger-lidman/) - Art Isbell Inger Lidman Uppsala, Sweden and Honolulu, Hawaiʻi In preparation for an extended Costa Rica visit during the fall of 2009, we sought some outdoor volunteer work that we could perform during our visit. We had really enjoyed San Gerardo de Rivas during our 2003 visit, so we decided to look for volunteer - [September News](https://www.cloudbridge.org/september-news/) - Construction continued on the classroom in September. The framing is complete and we are now ready to install the electrical. Our thanks go out to John Titan from the Casa Mariposa and our three scouts from Poland who helped with the framing. The scouts also helped with carrying heavy slabs of Cypress that had been - [Cloudbridge Activities - August 2010](https://www.cloudbridge.org/cloudbridge-activities-august-2010/) - August was a month of tree planting, construction, and maintenance of trails. The classroom construction is well underway. Cloudbridge is building a classroom to enhance our education program. It will be used for school groups, both local and international. It will expand our research capabilites as well as our educational outreach. Victor and Jason planted - [Cloudbridge activities - July 2010](https://www.cloudbridge.org/cloudbridge-activities-july-2010/) ## Pages - [Welcome to Cloudbridge!](https://www.cloudbridge.org/) - Open to visitors 365 days a year for hiking and wildlife tours, we enable people of all generations and all walks of life to be able to enjoy and learn about this incredible part of Costa Rica. Cloudbridge is a private nature reserve that stretches from 1550m to 2600m (5085-8530 ft) in the Talamanca - [Reports](https://www.cloudbridge.org/publications/reports/) - The research reports on this page have been produced from a variety of sources including: undergraduate and graduate student researchers, research interns, and visiting scientists. Contact research@cloudbridge.org with any questions regarding the research found on this page. Botany Ecology Geology, Meteorology, & Hydrology Forestry Land Use and Social Context Mycology Zoology – Amphibians & - [Species Lists](https://www.cloudbridge.org/publications/species-lists/) - SPECIES LISTS To view lists of the species that have been identified in the reserve, click on the images below. Species lists are updated periodically as new research is conducted. Contact research@cloudbridge.org for the most up-to-date lists or for more detailed information on the flora and fauna of Cloudbridge. Animals Birds Plants Fungi, Protists & - [Donate](https://www.cloudbridge.org/contact-us/donate/) - PROTECT THE CLOUD FOREST Donate now and be a part of our important work in re-establishing the cloud forest of the Chirripo valley and building a more sustainable future. You can choose to make a one-time donation, or make recurring gifts. By making a Recurring Gift, you provide Cloudbridge with a predictable, steady measure of - [Volunteer](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/volunteer-opportunities/) - VOLUNTEER If you want to make a difference and have a positive impact on the environment, but don’t have a background in biology or time for a research project, come join us as a Cloudbridge volunteer! Volunteers are matched with a variety of projects based on Cloudbridge’s needs, and your strengths and desires. All volunteer - [Who We Are](https://www.cloudbridge.org/who-we-are/) - Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is a leader in the restoration and conservation of the endangered Costa Rican cloud forest biome. Its primary mission is to provide education, research, training, and nature-based activities engaging local and international communities. Cloudbridge is operated by the Cloud Forest Conservation Alliance. The mission of the U.S. based non-profit, Cloud Forest Conservation - [landingpage research interns](https://www.cloudbridge.org/landingpage-research-interns/) - Research Internship · Costa Rica Do Real Science in a Cloud Forest Leave with a research report for your portfolio, professional field skills, and 11+ weeks of conservation fieldwork in one of the most biodiverse habitats on Earth. Apply NowSee the Projects 11+ Weeks ~$27/day Accommodation 400+ Vertebrate Species 26+ Countries Represented What You'll Actually - [Prices](https://www.cloudbridge.org/prices/) - Tarifario 2026 Entrada a la Reserva - 3000 colones por persona para nacionales - 6000 colones o $12 USD por persona para extranjeros - Niños menores de 10 años no pagan * Grupos mayores a 10 personas: $9 por persona para extranjeros y guías o docentes no pagan. Visitas guiadas en la Reserva (Tours) - - [Contact Us](https://www.cloudbridge.org/contact-us/) - For general inquiries please email info@cloudbridge.org, or call / Whatsapp (506) 8856 5519. We are looking forward to receiving you! Consider signing up for our newsletter to learn about the research taking place at Cloudbridge. You can do so HERE. Reserve AddressReserva Cloudbridge2 Km Este de EscuelaSan Gerardo de RivasPerez Zeledon, Costa Rica 11904Phone / - [Tours](https://www.cloudbridge.org/visit/tours/) - TOURS Cloudbridge offers guided tours for groups or individuals, usually lasting between 2-4 hours. The difficulty and length can be adjusted to your ability and interest. You will explore waterfalls, primary forest, and areas of reforested land with one of our Cloudbridge naturalists. You can choose between a general tour of the reserve or one - [Research/Volunteer](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/) - RESEARCH AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Cloudbridge offers a rich experience in a beautiful and biodiverse part of the world, whether you want to do your own research; contribute to some of our existing, ongoing research projects; or contribute your existing skills and learn new ones while volunteering. While at the reserve, you’ll meet and work with - [Research Intern](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/research-intern/) - RESEARCH INTERN Our research internships give students, graduates and professionals an opportunity to gain conservation research experience and build skills towards a career in biological field work. Interns are trained in how to conduct research that will be used for the conservation, protection and renewal of the reserve and rainforests in general. With the mountainous - [Birds Team Up: A Study on Mixed-Species Flocks in the Mountains](https://www.cloudbridge.org/birds-team-up-a-study-on-mixed-species-flocks-in-the-mountains/) - In the cloud forests of Costa Rica, birds from different species often form mixed-species flocks to move and forage together. One of our researchers investigated how these flocks vary with altitude, vegetation density, seasonality, and time of day in Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. We found that flocks were less common at higher altitudes, with the highest - [Publications](https://www.cloudbridge.org/publications/) - PUBLICATIONS Cloudbridge produces several types of publications to help connect our visitors and supporters to the research conducted at the reserve, and provide interesting information the reserve’s ecology, flora and fauna. Reports: Summary reports on the research conducted at Cloudbridge. Species Lists: Species that have been identified in the reserve. Fact Sheets: General information on - [The Project](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-project/) - In 2002, Ian and Genevieve (Jenny) Giddy purchased a 60 hectare (148 acre) cattle farm bordering Chirripó National Park in southern Costa Rica. Subsequently, the reserve was extended with the purchase of six more small cattle farms for a total of just under 200 hectares (444 acres). The property includes approximately 28 hectares (70 acres) - [Visit](https://www.cloudbridge.org/visit/) - Located in the beautiful Talamanca mountains next to Chirripó National Park, Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is a lush Cloud Forest and biodiverse paradise with waterfalls and somewhat steep hiking trails. We invite you to come and conduct research in the cloud forest, stay in our lovely rental accommodations, take a tour with our knowledgeable guides or - [Independent Researcher](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/independent-researcher/) - INDEPENDENT RESEARCHER Independent researchers define and conduct their own research. We welcome research on a wide variety of biological and environmental topics, as well as projects on the social aspects of environmental conservation. Many independent researchers are post-graduates, or are professionals who want to step out of their current work environment or pursue a specific - [Specialty Field Courses](https://www.cloudbridge.org/specialty-field-courses/) - UPCOMING COURSE: Mammals of Costa Rica with José Ramírez (16-18 May 2025) We are excited to announce the upcoming field course about Mammals of Costa Rica, led by longtime collaborator of Cloudbridge José Ramírez. If you are interested in learning more please write research@cloudbridge.org. Our research lab is an ideal space for our - [Gavilan Cabin](https://www.cloudbridge.org/accomodation/gavilan-cabin/) - Gavilan Cabin is Cloudbridge Reserve’s most rustic and remote cabin. It is a great place for solitude and privacy. Gavilan can sleep up to 4 people, with one queen and 2 twin beds. There is running water, a gas stove, a flush toilet and cold shower. Gavilan does not have internet or electricity, and limited - [Hiking Trails](https://www.cloudbridge.org/visit/hiking-trails/) - HIKING TRAILS “Getting to the top is optional. Getting down is mandatory.” – Ed Viesturs, American high-altitude mountaineer The reserve offers many kilometers of hiking trails that range in difficulty from moderate to strenuous. Each trail has special qualities, including unique wildlife, waterfalls or mountain views. The reserve is open from sunrise to sunset, but - [Accommodations](https://www.cloudbridge.org/accomodation/) - ACCOMMODATIONS Three houses at Cloudbridge can be rented by guests, with a two-night minimum stay. It’s so beautiful here that you may want to stay longer! All proceeds used to support the research, education and reforestation programs. Inquiries: rentals@cloudbridge.org or Tel/WhatsApp +506 8856-5519 Casita Blanca: Our premiere cabin has comfortable modern accommodations and overlooks a - [Casita Colibri](https://www.cloudbridge.org/accomodation/casita-colibiri/) - Casita Colibrí (‘Hummingbird Cottage’ in English) got its name because of the special way it seems to attract birds. It’s located at the entrance of Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, alongside the Chirripó Pacifico river. There is an upstairs bedroom with a queen bed and downstairs is a kitchen dining area. The porch overlooks a sloped garden - [Casita Blanca](https://www.cloudbridge.org/accomodation/casita-blanca/) - This charming house has inspiring mountain views and a wrap-around deck which is perfect for birdwatching. There is one large room with a queen bed, wood stove, rocking chairs and closet. Glass sliding doors and clear ceiling panels make the inside bright, even on cloudy days. A separate room with glass sliding doors to the - [Conservation](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-project/conservation/) - CONSERVATION “Society is defined not only by what it creates, but by what it refuses to destroy.” - John Sawhill, President and CEO of the Nature Conservancy Mission The non-profit Cloud Forest Conservation Alliance (CFCA) supports and guides the operations of the Cloudbridge Nature Reserve and seeks to expand the knowledge, skills, tools, practices and - [Reforestation](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-project/reforestation/) - REFORESTATION “The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson, American Poet Mission Reforest areas of degraded agricultural land and nurture those areas back to a climax forest composition. How It’s Done Cloudbridge began its reforestation efforts in 2002 with both local and international consultants, eventually coming up with - [Plan Your Trip](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/volunteer-faq/) - PLAN YOUR TRIP The reserve is fairly isolated with the nearest village, San Gerardo de Rivas, 2.5 km (30 minute walk) away. The nearest large town is San Isidro del General, a 1-1.5 hour bus ride down the mountain. Click here for detailed directions to Cloudbridge. Travel What To Bring Facilities Community Free Time Activities - [About Your Stay](https://www.cloudbridge.org/accomodation/about-your-stay/) - Guests in our rental casitas have full access to the reserve, including our private research trails. Thank you for staying at Cloudbridge, all proceeds from our rentals directly support our important research and education projects. The reserve is fairly isolated and the nearest village of San Gerardo de Rivas is 2.5 km away (a 30-minute - [Directions](https://www.cloudbridge.org/contact-us/directions/) - DIRECTIONS TO CLOUDBRIDGE Your address at Cloudbridge Reserva Cloudbridge 2 Km Este de Escuela San Gerardo de Rivas Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica 11904 Important / Importante: Dogs are not allowed at Cloudbrige. No se permiten perros. (More Information / Más Información) Taxis There are two types of taxis: informal taxis and official taxis (red, and - [Volunteer Application](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/volunteer-application/) - VOLUNTEER / RESEARCH APPLICATION We are looking for hard working Volunteers, Research Interns and Independent Researchers to help us in all kinds of ways: like reforestation and construction work from our Volunteers, data collection and research support from our Research Interns, or help widening our knowledge of the reserve from Independent Researchers. Below is our - [Additional Resources](https://www.cloudbridge.org/publications/relevant-resources/) - ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Below are related organizations and other resources that are relevant to the Cloudbridge Project. Local Organizations: Parque Nacional Chirripo Los Cusingos Bird Sanctuary Sendero los Gigantes ASANA Oncilla Conservation Valle del Chirripó SEPA - Spanish language school SINAC CATIE Organization for Tropical Studies Pax Natura Mesoamerican Biological Corridor Parque Nacional La Amistad Organizations - [CONUBI](https://www.cloudbridge.org/conubi/) - Since 2019, Cloudbridge has collaborated with other environmental organizations in the development and implementation of an engaging environmental education program: Knowing Our Biodiversity - CONUBI. With the support of our local Conservation Area (ACLA-P) and the UNDP, various educational materials have been prepared, and the program was implemented in 28 local schools. 2022 marked the - [Study Abroad](https://www.cloudbridge.org/students-outreach/study-abroad/) - STUDY ABROAD “One lesson outdoors is worth seven inside.” – Tim Brighouse, British Educator Cloudbridge provides onsite educational experiences to a variety of high schools, universities, and educational organizations from our local elementary school, to one of the top high schools in the US for exceptional young scientists. Programs are tailored to the individual needs, - [Research](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-project/research/) - “A lifetime can be spent in a Magellanic voyage around the trunk of a single tree.” ― Edward O. Wilson, Conservation Biologist Mission Research the cloud forest ecosystems, flora, fauna, and the succession of reforestation by conducting, facilitating, and supporting studies from scientists around the globe. How It’s Done Founded by a university professor and - [Our campus](https://www.cloudbridge.org/our-campus/) - Cloudbridge Nature Reserve is happy to offer top-notch educational and research facilities for ecologists, botanists, biologists and other researchers who may wish to conduct field work in the Cloud Forest. Our recently constructed Research Lab offers an ideal space in which to process and analyze field samples, and the support facilities (dorms, shared kitchens, common - [Gallery](https://www.cloudbridge.org/gallery/) - [exit interview](https://www.cloudbridge.org/exit-interview/) - Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Thank you for taking the time to fill out this form. Your honest answers will help us improve and offer the best possible experience to future participants. Thank you so much for your time at Cloudbridge, we hope that you enjoyed it! FirstLaste-mailIs there anything that - [Education](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-project/teach/) - EDUCATION “Look deep into nature, and then, you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein Mission Educate an international and local student audience of students, visitors and volunteers on environmental and biological topics through student focused programs, lectures, displays, and tours. How It’s Done Tourists, volunteers, research interns, independent researchers and locals have been - [Virtual Field Trips](https://www.cloudbridge.org/students-outreach/virtual-field-trips/) - VIRTUAL FIELD TRIPS The cloud forest is not as far away as you might think. Video conferencing and internet communications, like Skype and Facetime, allow us to bring the cloud forest to you. During an interactive video conference, you get a chance to experience the beauty of this forest from your home location. Topics can include: - [The Project Team](https://www.cloudbridge.org/the-project/the-project-team/) - THE PROJECT TEAM Genevieve (Jenny) Giddy – Co-founder Originally from South Africa, Jenny founded Cloudbridge with her late husband, Professor Ian Giddy. She owns the Reserve and currently lives in upstate New York, USA and Vancouver, Canada. Prior to co-founding Cloudbridge she was a research librarian at Environment Canada. Now retired, she provides talks - [Group Volunteering](https://www.cloudbridge.org/volunteering/group-volunteering/) - GROUP VOLUNTEERING Group volunteers choose to volunteer for a day or more on a service project. Projects can range from tree planting and maintenance, to construction, to road or trail improvements. While groups tend to be focused on providing a service to help the reserve, Cloudbridge staff work to expose volunteers to a wide variety - [Community Education](https://www.cloudbridge.org/students-outreach/community-education/) - COMMUNITY EDUCATION Cloudbridge offers free onsite and offsite educational talks, presentations and hands-on experiences for local community schools and groups. Community education programs are tailored to the interests and abilities of the group and are presented in Spanish. Depending on the scope and needs of the program, sessions range from 1 hour to 1 day. - [Students/Outreach](https://www.cloudbridge.org/students-outreach/) - STUDENTS & OUTREACH “Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters, and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.” – John Lubbock, English statesman and naturalist One of Cloudbridge’s missions is to provide environmental education to international and local students, visitors - [Thank You](https://www.cloudbridge.org/thank-you/) - Thank you kindly for your generous donation. Donations are allocated to a broad variety of projects including, tree planting, educational programs, research and development, and trail maintenance. Your support is greatly appreciated! - [Fact Sheets](https://www.cloudbridge.org/publications/fact-sheets/) - FACT SHEETS Below are links to some nature briefs highlighting interesting facts about the natural life in and around Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Written by Ian Giddy, co-founder of Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Local Environment The Cloud Forest Wet and Dry Tropical Forests Cloud Forests Chirripo National Park Local Fauna Local Flora Local Geology Forestry Deforestation Forest - [About](https://www.cloudbridge.org/about-2/) - What is Cloudbridge? The Cloudbridge Reserve was established to preserve and reforest an important gap in the cloud forest adjoining the Chirripó Pacifico river on the slopes of Mt Chirripó, the highest mountain in Costa Rica. More details on the project may be found at cloudbridge.org/project.htm . Who owns Cloudbridge? The reserve is owned by - [Sponsors](https://www.cloudbridge.org/sponsors/) - Thank you to all of our donors, Some of our major donors ($1,000+) include: Genevieve Giddy, USA/Canada Ian Giddy Estate, USA Cloud Forest Conservation Alliance, USA FlexStrom, Germany Marleen Riegman and Hans Klamer, Holland Beacon School, New York, USA ## Slider - [Preview](https://www.cloudbridge.org/wds-slider/preview/) - There is no slider selected or the slider was deleted. ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.cloudbridge.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Monthly Reserve Updates](https://www.cloudbridge.org/category/monthly-reserve-updates/)