La Cangreja National Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids La Cangreja National Park |
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IUCN Category II (National Park)
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Creek in La Cangreja National Park
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| Location | San José Province, Costa Rica |
| Area | 4,600 acres (19 km2) |
| Established | 1987 |
| Governing body | National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) |
| Parque Nacional La Cangreja | |
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La Cangreja National Park is a special place in Costa Rica. It is located in the Puriscal Canton of San José Province. This park helps protect nature and wildlife. Before 2002, it was known as the Cerro de la Cangreja Protected Zone.
The park is part of the Central Pacific Conservation Area. This area is close to the Pacific Ocean coast. It is a beautiful spot where you can see many different plants and animals.
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What is La Cangreja National Park?
A national park is a large area of land that a country protects. It is kept safe for its natural beauty, wildlife, and history. La Cangreja National Park was created in 1987. Its main goal is to protect the unique plants and animals that live there. It also helps keep the natural environment healthy.
The park covers about 4,600 acres (18.6 square kilometers). This makes it a significant area for conservation in Costa Rica. The park is managed by the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). This group works to protect all of Costa Rica's natural treasures.
Where is La Cangreja National Park Located?
La Cangreja National Park is found in the central part of Costa Rica. It is in the San José Province, which is a large region. The park is not far from the Pacific Ocean. Its location means it has a mix of different types of forests. This helps many kinds of plants and animals to live there.
The park's coordinates are 9.717° North and 84.373° West. These numbers help pinpoint its exact spot on a map. Knowing the location helps scientists and visitors find the park easily.
Why is La Cangreja National Park Important?
La Cangreja National Park is very important for several reasons. First, it protects many species of plants and animals. Some of these species might be rare or endangered. By protecting their homes, the park helps them survive.
Second, the park helps keep the air and water clean. Forests act like natural filters. They produce oxygen and help regulate water cycles. This benefits not only the park's wildlife but also nearby communities.
Third, the park offers a place for people to learn about nature. Visitors can explore and see wildlife in its natural habitat. This helps people understand why protecting our planet is so important.
Plants and Animals You Might See
La Cangreja National Park is home to a wide variety of life. The park's diverse forests support many different plants. You can find tall trees, colorful flowers, and unique ferns. These plants create a rich environment for animals.
Many animals live in the park. You might spot monkeys swinging through the trees. Sloths move slowly through the branches. Colorful birds fly overhead, singing their songs. There are also many insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Each animal plays a role in the park's ecosystem. The park helps ensure their continued reproduction and life cycle.
Exploring the Park
Visitors to La Cangreja National Park can enjoy many activities. Hiking trails wind through the forests. These trails allow you to explore the park's beauty up close. You can see waterfalls, listen to the sounds of nature, and look for wildlife.
It is a great place for nature photography. You can capture amazing pictures of the landscapes and animals. Remember to follow park rules to keep yourself and the wildlife safe. Always stay on marked trails and do not disturb the animals.
History of the Park
The area now known as La Cangreja National Park has been protected for a long time. It was first established as the Cerro de la Cangreja Protected Zone. This happened in 1987. This early protection helped keep the area safe from development.
In 2002, its status was changed to a National Park. This change gave it even stronger protection. It also made it a more recognized place for conservation and tourism. The park continues to be a vital part of Costa Rica's efforts to protect its amazing natural heritage.
For more information in Spanish, you can visit: Parque nacional La Cangreja para niños
