The family is central to life in Latin America. In Tamarindo, this value threads together the oldest families with the newest, crossing heritage lines and species.
Yup, you read that right. The fabric of family values in Costa Rica may be woven from Catholicism, the national religion, but it was here long before the Spaniards. It is family values that held together the first inhabitants of Tamarindo.
They still live here, in fact. If you’re lucky you may see them. We’re not talking about humans. The most venerable families in Tamarindo, at least in the primate order.
Family Life
Howler species hold fifteen places in their biological family. They are native to South and Central America.
In Playa Tamarindo, there are three large families, not in the biological classification way, but the common understanding of family. They travel in and out of Tamarindo, sometimes disappearing for long periods of time. For them, family life is critical.
It is not normal to see one howler, but it happens. you may see stray howlers because they are not well, they are sick or have wandered off. Adult monkeys that are healthy will usually go back to their family.
Howling, their namesake, is part of the monkey’s social behavior. It establishes rank, but also a family’s presence. They produce the howls using something called a hyoid bone, produced only by the males. Howls travel as far as three miles before dissipating.
Dangerous Travel
The biggest threat to Howler families is humans. Where howlers tend to travel through trees, on branches, rarely on the ground, humans pave roads and cut down trees.
The monkeys are adaptable to new conditions, though. They find tree branches and electrical wires travel about the same, providing the wires are properly grounded. Unfortunately, they often aren’t.
Responding to this challenge, a group known as Salve Monos rose to the occasion in 2004. Over the years the group, which translates as “save monkeys,” has erected rope bridges in over 200 locations around Tamarindo.
Their efforts are invaluable, but not 100% effective.
Helping Out
An easy move you can make is to donate to the Salve Monos group. You can also reach out to them to ask if there is anything else you can do.
As they are a small group of volunteers, maintenance of the bridges is nearly impossible. They rely on locals to help identify bridges that have worn out, needing replacement.
You can also let the Salve Monos group know of any distressed monkeys you encounter. Take pictures with your smartphone so you can send them if asked. They may tell you there is nothing for you to concern yourself. They may ask for more information.
Whatever you do, don’t take matters into your own hands. Do not ever try to feed howlers. Keep your own family at a safe distance.
Monkeys, especially distressed howlers, can act out. They are comparatively docile monkeys, but they can lash out. As long as they are in the trees or on a building, you should be fine. They’ll generally avoid you.
The sight of howlers never wears thin, even after living in Tamarindo for years. It’s a little like seeing deer. You know something special is happening. most take it as life asking us to slow down and stay curious.
As you will find, this is a lot of what Tamarindo is about. It’s what Costa Rica is about. Slow down. Look around.
Slow down more. Look again. You’re surrounded by family.
Speaking of which…
Horizon Pacific Management & Rentals is located in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Offering vacation rentals, property management, long-term rentals, as well as a complete concierge service. Providing you with a local contact during your stay, Horizon Pacific is a company you can trust, with the experience you need.