The Central American nation of Costa Rica is home to a vast array of wildlife, due in large part to its geographic position between the North and South American continents, its Neotropical climate, and its wide variety of habitats. Costa Rica is home to more than half a million species, which represents nearly 4% of the total species estimated worldwide, making Costa Rica one of the 20 countries with the highest biodiversity in the world. Of these 500,000 species, more than 300,000 are insects. Okay, we know what you are thinking: That is a LOT of bugs…and you are right. But the good news is that this explains why Costa Rica is also home to more than 600 species of birds, with more than another 200 species migrating though regularly. Starksboro residents Chris and Julia Child will present a slide show and talk on the birds and other natural wonders of this small but diverse country.

Join the Mad Birders and the Warren Library for this talk at 4PM on Sunday April 26th. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. This day is also the 224th anniversary of the birth of John James Audubon. A special prize will be awarded to the attendee who presents the most surprising fact about the life of this famous naturalist, painter and ornithologist. For questions email info@madbirders.org or call 496-4730.