Costa Rica, a small country in Central America, is a paradise for the naturalist. Its rich mixture of different climates and habitats is marvellously well protected by an extensive network of national parks and reserves. No less than 850 species of birds occur, as well as 210 species of mammals and 350 reptiles and amphibians (nearly ten times as many as in Europe). The material of this CD was recorded during the rainy season by Eloisa Matheu, assisted by Francesc Llimona and local experts. Jean C. Roche has had the task of mixing the recordings, to recreate atmospheres unique to each habitat. Patrick FReMEAUX