El Yunque National Forest is a lush, tropical rainforest located in northeastern Puerto Rico, known for its diverse array of plant and animal species. This article will explore the various species found within the forest, including endangered, common, and other notable wildlife.
What are the Endangered Species in El Yunque National Forest?
El Yunque National Forest is home to several endangered species, including the Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata) and the Palo Colorado Tree (Cyrilla racemiflora).
Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata)
The Puerto Rican Parrot is one of the most endangered bird species in the world, with a population of around 50 individuals. These parrots inhabit the upper zones of the Luquillo Mountains and their primary habitat is the Palo Colorado Forest.
Palo Colorado Tree (Cyrilla racemiflora)
The Palo Colorado Tree is an endangered tree species that can live for hundreds of years and provides critical habitat for the Puerto Rican Parrot.
What are the Common Bird Species in El Yunque National Forest?
In addition to the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot, El Yunque National Forest is home to several other common bird species, including the Elfin Woods Warbler and the Puerto Rican Emerald Anole.
Elfin Woods Warbler (Setophaga angelae)
The Elfin Woods Warbler is a small, endangered warbler found in the high-altitude forests of El Yunque.
Puerto Rican Emerald Anole (Anolis krugi)
The Puerto Rican Emerald Anole is a common lizard species found throughout the forest.
What Other Wildlife can be found in El Yunque National Forest?
Beyond the endangered and common bird species, El Yunque National Forest is home to a variety of other wildlife, including Coqui Frogs, the Puerto Rican Boa, and the Puerto Rican Crested Anole.
Coqui Frogs
Several species of Coqui Frogs are found in El Yunque, known for their distinctive chirping sounds.
Puerto Rican Boa (Chilabothrus granti)
The Puerto Rican Boa is a non-venomous snake endemic to Puerto Rico and found in El Yunque.
Puerto Rican Crested Anole (Anolis cristatellus)
The Puerto Rican Crested Anole is a common lizard species found in the forest.
How does the Habitat and Behavior of Species in El Yunque National Forest Differ?
The diverse ecosystems of El Yunque National Forest, ranging from lowland rainforests to high-altitude dwarf forests, provide unique habitats for the various species found within the forest. Many species have adapted to the specific conditions of the forest, such as the stunted trees and shrubs in the high-altitude dwarf forest.
What is the Conservation Status of Species in El Yunque National Forest?
El Yunque National Forest is a critical habitat for many endangered species, and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these species and their habitats. The El Yunque Stewardship Fund supports restoration efforts and community engagement in the forest.
Reference:
1. https://www.nationalforests.org/our-forests/light-and-seed-magazine/diverse-resilient-and-unique-el-yunque-national-forest
2. https://welcome.topuertorico.org/reference/yunque.shtml
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Yunque_National_Forest