Today’s visit to Barro Colorado Island and the Discovery Center was a captivating experience that emphasized the importance of tropical research and conservation. We began our journey by taking local pangas (boats) from National Geographic Quest to the Discovery Center located in Soberanía National Park. The center, an important research and educational facility, provided valuable insights into the region's tropical ecosystems and ongoing conservation efforts.
After arriving at the Discovery Center, we learned about the scientific studies conducted in the area which focus on the rich biodiversity of the region. The center plays a key role in understanding the ecological dynamics of the tropical rainforest and its significance for global conservation.
We then embarked on a Zodiac cruise around Barro Colorado Island, where the vessel was anchored in front of the Research Station. This allowed us to observe firsthand the cutting-edge research taking place to monitor and protect the island’s unique flora and fauna.
Throughout the cruise, we were fortunate to spot a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, Geoffroy’s tamarin monkeys, long-nosed coatimundi, and birds like snail kits and giant anis, highlighting the biodiversity of this remarkable area. This visit reinforced the critical importance of research and conservation efforts in protecting the tropical rainforest.
