Hiking around in the Cloud Forest in Monteverde there are so many interesting things to see. Don’t get me wrong …seeing the clouds hovering below tree level is a highlight, for sure.
Strangler Fig
What got my attention was a unusual tree. It was so tall couldn’t see the top. Learned later it is a Strangler Fig Tree. A common name for many types of trees that start as an epiphyte growing on a host tree. Over time it will reach the light above.
Mickey Mouse Plant
Looks a bit like Mickey Mouse. That’s why people call it Mickey Mouse. It’s actual name is Solanum Mammosum. In Costa Rica the leaves are used daily as a remedy for diseases of the kidney and bladder.
Thorn Bug
As soon as I saw this I thought …….Hummm….that’s a strange looking bush. It is actually a row of bugs…Umbonia crassicornis…developed to camouflage themselves as thorns to be protected from being eaten by birds. ,
100 Country Trek 
The thorn bugs are such good mimics! No birds can find them. : )
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They do a great job to save their lives.ha
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The thorn bugs were well spotted! Can’t say I’ve ever seen a Mickey Mouse plant before, most unusual.
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First and only time I saw these plants.Thanks for stopping by.
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Felt like Alice in Wonderland looking at these pictures. 🙂
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Thanks Dora. Hoping to get back to travelling soon.
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I like such giant trees. The fig tree is indeed beautiful.. 😊🌲
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Me too…
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I love the Micky Mouse plant picture! You have such great pictures!
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Thanks Julia.
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