El Yunque National Forest, located in northeastern Puerto Rico, is a tropical rainforest known for its incredible biodiversity. This lush, verdant ecosystem is home to a wide variety of animal species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates. From the rare and endangered Puerto Rican Parrot to the ubiquitous Coqui Frogs, the forest teems with a rich and diverse array of wildlife.
What Bird Species Can Be Found in El Yunque National Forest?
El Yunque National Forest is a significant habitat for a variety of bird species, including:
- Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata): One of the ten rarest birds in the world, found only on the island of Puerto Rico. The parrot population was once estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands but declined to just 13 individuals in 1975. Conservation efforts have helped increase the population, but it remains endangered.
- Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus brunnescens): A subspecies of the broad-winged hawk, found in isolated mountain areas. It prefers to hunt from lofty perches and feeds on frogs, lizards, other birds, and insects. The population was estimated at approximately 124 individuals in 1992.
- Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus venator): A subspecies of the sharp-shinned hawk, restricted to five isolated mountain-forest areas. It primarily feeds on small birds and is known for its swift flight.
- Neotropical Migrant Birds: Approximately 35 species of these migratory birds either winter or pass through El Yunque during the winter season. They contribute to the forest’s biodiversity and can be seen in various habitats within the forest.
What Mammal Species Can Be Found in El Yunque National Forest?
El Yunque National Forest is home to several native mammal species, including:
- Puerto Rican Boa (Epicrates inornatus): Found throughout the island, this boa lives in El Yunque below an elevation of 1,200 feet (365 meters). Its ecology is being studied by the USDA Forest Service International Institute of Tropical Forestry.
- Rats: Two species of rats are found in the forest, which are part of the smaller animal population that abounds in the gentle forest environment.
- Bats: Eleven species of bats inhabit the forest, contributing to the ecosystem’s biodiversity.
- House Mouse: Found in the forest, this mouse is one of the smaller mammal species present.
- Mongoose: Introduced to the island, mongooses are actively managed to mitigate their negative impact on local species.
What Reptile and Invertebrate Species Can Be Found in El Yunque National Forest?
El Yunque National Forest is home to various reptiles and invertebrates, including:
- Coqui Frogs: Sixteen species of coqui frogs are endemic to Puerto Rico and are found in the forest. They are considered a national treasure and are an important part of the ecosystem.
- Lizards: Fourteen different species of lizards inhabit the forest, often seen on various forms of vegetation.
- Insects: The forest is home to a diverse array of insects, with over 1,200 species collected at one research site alone. Insects play a crucial role in the ecosystem, serving as food sources and pollinators.
Where Can I Observe Wildlife in El Yunque National Forest?
For wildlife observation in El Yunque National Forest:
- Best Time: The forest is open year-round, but the best time for wildlife observation is during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is more favorable.
- Specific Locations: The El Portal Rain Forest Center is a good starting point, with a short interpretive nature trail that allows visitors to explore the understory of the canopy. Hiking trails, such as the Mount Britton Observation Tower trail, offer opportunities to see various species.
- Guidelines and Regulations: Visitors are encouraged to respect the forest’s wildlife and their habitats. It is essential to follow guidelines and regulations provided by the U.S. Forest Service to ensure the protection of both visitors and the wildlife.
Reference:
1. El Yunque National Forest – Wikipedia
2. El Yunque National Forest
3. Wildlife Species – El Yunque National Forest – Nature & Science