Panama’s Metropolitan NP and Canal
Another early start and a visit to the viewing platform before breakfast, before setting out on today’s excursion towards Panama City’s Metropolitan National Park. The hill we climbed was a favorite spot for locals to exercise on Sunday mornings, so it was bustling with activity. As we made our way up the steep slope, we were treated to some excellent views of a Rufous-breasted Wren, Crimson crested Woodpecker and White shouldered Tanager We caught glimpses of Howler monkeys, Agouti, a colorful r, a slow-moving Three-toed Sloth, a Collared Aracari, and a Mealy Parrot.
As we made our way up the hill, we reached a midway viewpoint that offered views over the city. Here, we were treated to a views of a group of vibrant Keel-billed Toucans.
Further on we came to a tree with a peculiar hole. Intrigued, Alex decided to shake a nearby bush, and to our delight, a curious little head emerged from the opening. It was a Night Monkey, peering at us with inquisitive eyes. It was great to have such clear and close views of this extraordinary creature.
Not long after seeing the night monkey we encountered a family of Crimson-headed Woodpeckers hammering away at a tree trunk, their vibrant plumage catching our attention.
As we continued back down the path, a lone White-nosed Coati made an appearance, gracefully crossing our track. On our way back to the van we heard a Rufous and white Wren and saw a Short-tailed Hawk perched in a tree as well as White-tailed Deer, and a Yellow-headed Gecko reminding us of the diverse wildlife that calls this place home.
On to Pinta Culebra
Leaving the park we then drove the short distance through parts of Panama city to Punta Culebra Nature Center. Punta Culebra is a visitor center located at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal run by the Smithsonian Institute and from here you can see the Pacific end of the canal.
Not long after entering the site we watched, fascinated by a stand-off between a Crab-eating Raccoon and a large Green Iguana, perched on a tree branch. Eventually, the racoon found a way to pass the Iguana and headed down to the ground. We saw a couple more Racoons and Several Two -toed sloths gave us excellent views in the trees. The area had several very large Green Iguanas who were not at all bothered by people. On the site there was an indoor exhibition, where we had the opportunity to explore the exhibit showcasing poison dart frogs. Further around the site we encountered a few more raccoons, and our luck continued with several Two-toed Sloths providing us with excellent views low down in the treetops.
As we looked out over the Pacific entrance to the cannel a dozen or more Ships were waiting their turn to start the journey to the Caribbean side. Overhead a group of Brown Pelicans flew past followed by Magnificent Frigate birds. On the ground were a Mockingbird, Grackle and a Mangrove Warbler. Whilst a group of Cormorants perched drying their feathers in the sun along the shore line.
Panama Canal Museum
After Lunch at the tower we had a visit to the Panama Canal Museum and lock. We watched a monohull yacht, a tri-hull catamaran and a large container ship navigate through the lock.. The precise movement of the container ship was facilitated by eight mule engines, four on each side, ensuring its centered position and controlled descent. A group of diplomats looked on observing the spectacle from in front of the barriers.
Later, we found respite from the heat in a cool cinema, where we were treated to a captivating 3-D film narrated by Morgan Freeman. The film delved into the history of the canal, giving us an insight into the canals remarkable story.
As evening approached, we returned to the tower for a dinner. Once again a kinkajou appeared drawn by the allure of bananas. This charming creature provided us with excellent views, while we eagerly awaited the possibility of catching a glimpse of the elusive Olingo.