San San-Pond Sak. 09/06/93; Bocas del Toro; 16,414 ha; 09°24'N 082°57'W. An aggregation of channels, shallow, brackish and freshwater lakes in the lower basin of two rivers. The site, bordering Costa Rica, includes coastal plains, bays, sand bars, and beaches. Vegetation consists of mangroves and peat bogs. The wetlands recharge aquifers which provide water for 56,000 inhabitants and irrigate banana plantations. The site provides important habitat for 133 species of birds, of which 36 are endangered; 55 species of mammals, 24 endangered; seven endangered reptiles of the 54 occurring; and 20 amphibian species. Human activities include ranching, timber harvesting, subsistence agriculture, pig raising, fishing, and hunting. Ramsar site no. 611. Most recent RIS information: 1993.

Bocas del Toro