A Rare Flight Over Town

In early January, a remarkable sight unfolded over Town as a king vulture was seen flying above Las Catalinas. Known for its striking white plumage and colorful head, the king vulture is not commonly observed in coastal or developed areas, making this a notable moment for our community.

The sighting was recorded by our Environmental Director, who filmed the king vulture and shared the moment with great excitement, as it was the first time this species had been seen flying over the skies of Las Catalinas. In Costa Rica, the king vulture typically inhabits large tracts of tropical forest and is more often associated with remote and less disturbed environments, which makes this observation particularly rare.

 

 

 

Beyond its impressive presence, the king vulture plays a vital ecological role. As a scavenger, it helps keep ecosystems healthy by consuming carrion and reducing the spread of disease. Unlike more common vultures, it is usually seen alone or in pairs.

Its appearance over Town may be a positive sign of the strong connection between the built spaces of Las Catalinas and the natural landscapes that surround them, and of the overall health of the ecosystem we are proud to care for.