Costa Rica Research Presentation
By Parker Cantrell 8th period
Costa Rican Climate
Costa Rica has only two seasons: the wet season, from May to November, and the dry season, from December to April. There are three climatic zones. The torrid zone (tierra caliente), which includes the coastal and northern plains to an altitude of 457 m (1,500 ft), is characterized by heavy rains, almost continuous on the Atlantic watershed, and by a The torrid zone (tierra caliente), which includes the coastal and northern plains to an altitude of 457 m (1,500 ft), is characterized by heavy rains, almost continuous on the Atlantic watershed, and by a temperature range of 29–32°c (84–90°f). The temperate zone, including the central valleys and plateaus, has altitudes ranging from 457 to 1,524 m (1,500 to 5,000 ft), with regular rains from April through November and a temperature range of 24–27°c (75–80°f). The cold zone, comprising areas higher than 1,524 m (5,000 ft), has a temperature range of 10–27°c (50–81°f) and is less rainy but more windy than the temperate regions. The average annual rainfall for the country is more than 250 cm (100 in).
Religion
Roman Catholicism, the predominant religion, is the official religion of the state; however, the constitution guarantees religious freedom and this right is generally respected in practice. About 69% of the population is nominally Roman Catholic; only about 40% of Roman Catholics are active members. About 18% of the population belong to other Christian churches.
Water Temperature
AVERAGE WATER TEMP Expect Pacific Coast water temperatures in the low 70Fs in winter, the high 70Fs to low 80Fs in summer. Off remote Cocos Island, you'll need to pack heavier exposure protection for thermoclines at depth.
Interesting Fact
Costa Rica has black volcanic sand because of the still-active volcano Mt. Arenal.
Interesting Fact
For decades, Costa Rica has been a renowned birding destination, boosting life lists for visitors from all over the world. It has an extremely varied topography, supporting mangrove-lined coasts, lowland rainforest, mid-elevation cloud forest, and tussock grasslands of the high-elevation paramo. For its size--smaller than West Virginia Costa Rica boasts an amazing biodiversity.