Canadian Organization for Tropical Education and Research (COTERC)
The Canadian Organization for Tropical Education and Research in Cano Palma is nestled within the lowland rainforest of the Barra Del Colorado Wildlife Refuge, five miles north of Tortuguero. The station hosts student interns, researchers and other organizations that are carrying out migrant bird studies or other lowland forest ecology-based projects. The organization studies native ethnobotany and is monitoring migrant and local bird species in conjunction with Global Vision International. Cano Palma is unique in that it provides easy access to swamp forest, freshwater and saltwater systems.
COTERC has three trails ideal for short afternoon walks. Plants and trees are labeled for curious hikers. During the rainier months (call ahead to check weather), these trails are often flooded and unsuitable for hiking. The biological station is always looking for volunteers to assist with various research projects. (Contact: Box 335, Pickering, Ontario, L1V 2R6, Canada; Phone: 905-831-8809)