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Forests Puerto Rico > Forests
Puerto Rican Parrot (Amazona vittata) Recovery Program

By:Travel & Sports Staff, February-2007

During the last forty years, the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources of Puerto Rico (DRNA), with the collaboration of the United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) and the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USDAFS), have been actively working for many years in the recovery program of the only endemic parrot species of Puerto Rico, the Amazona vittata. This species was abundant during the times of colonization with widespread distribution in the Island. However, during the last two hundred years, its habitat destruction ... (more)
Pueto Rican Parrot, /Frazier Nivens
Area 4Aguirre Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Guayama
787-864-0105
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-853-4617FX
Rt 7710, south of Rt 3.
drna.gobierno.pr
Beaches Bird-Watching Fishing Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
East of Salinas, between Guayama and Santa Isabel. Mangroves, tidal flats, bird rookeries (87 species), research lakes & large manatee population. Guayama Region.
Area 2Arecibo Region, Forest Reserves (more) > Puerto Rico > Arecibo
787-881-1004
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-879-4828FX
drna.gobierno.pr
Information
Central information for Cambalache & Río Abajo Forests.
Area 3Boquerón Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Cabo Rojo: Boquerón
Boquerón Forest Photo 787-851-7260
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 307 Km 8.8.
drna.gobierno.pr
Beaches Bird-Watching Camping Entrance Fee Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
Just west of Boquerón, this nature walk through a mangrove forest is lined by plaques describing environmental points of interest.
Area 3Boquerón Wildlife Refuge (more) > Puerto Rico > Cabo Rojo: Boquerón
Boquerón Wildlife Refuge Photo 787-851-4795
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 301 Km 1.1.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Fishing Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
Fishing, bird-watching, kayaks, picnic areas and parking. Bird sanctuary protects endemic species of Puerto Rico.
Area 4Bosque del Pueblo (more) > Puerto Rico > Adjuntas
Bosque del Pueblo Photo 787-829-4842
787-829-4842FX
30 Rodolfo González St.
casapueblo.org
Climbing Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary
This area was threatened by mining operations. The town banded together to halt the mining & repair the damage done to a nearby forest, which is today known as the Peoples Forest. To obtain a permit, go to the the Casa Pueblo at the Plaza de Recreo.
Area 6Bosque Los Tres Picachos (more) > Puerto Rico > Ciales
787-871-3500
787-871-3743FX
787-871-1847FX
Rt 533 Km 5.
Star Listing
Bird-watching, climbing and hiking.
Area 5Bosque Nacional El Yunque (more) > Puerto Rico > Río Grande
Bosque Nacional El Yunque Photo 787-888-1810
787-888-1880
787-888-5622FX
Rt 191 Km 4.0.
fs.fed.us
Bird-Watching Camping Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Information Lookout Tower Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing Special-Needs Travelers
The only tropical rain forest in the US Forest Service System. There is an extensive trail system (most trails start along PR 191, between Km 8.6 and 13.4). El Portal is the main visitor center. It is open daily (9am-5pm), and features 3 interpretive pavilions, theater, bookstore and a nature trail. La Mina waterfall can be reached using Big Tree Trail (Km.10.4) or La Mina Trail (Km.12.2). Yokahu Tower and La Coca Falls are must-see sites. The recreation areas have picnic shelters, restrooms and walking trails. Guided tours are available. El Yunque Peak provides a spectacular view of the Forest and the eastern shoreline of the Island.
Area 1Bosque Urbano San Patricio (more) > Puerto Rico > San Juan: Puerto Nuevo
787-273-0722
Urb. Caparra Heights, Entrance at Elida St. & Ensenada St.
bosquesanpatricio.org
Biking Bird-Watching Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Information Reserve / Sanctuary Special-Needs Travelers
A 53-acre forest, once used for military housing, it now contains 30 species of birds, 4 species of reptiles and 30 species of trees with interpretive walks.
Area 3Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge (more) > Puerto Rico > Cabo Rojo: El Combate
Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge Photo 787-851-7258
787-851-7274
787-255-6725FX
Rt 301 Km 5.1.
caribbean-ecoteam.fws.gov
Biking Bird-Watching Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Information Lookout Tower Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
Headquarters and Visitors Center for the Caribbean Wildlife Refuge. Friends Group Association - Cabo Rojo Salt Flats Interpretive Center (museum-trails-souvenirs).
Area 2Cambalache Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Barceloneta
Cambalache Forest Photo 787-881-1004
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-881-1866FX
Rt 682 Km 6.3.
drna.gobierno.pr
Biking Bird-Watching Camping Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing
Just west of Barceloneta. Subtropical forest with impressive karst formations. Observe 6 of Puerto Rico's 12 endemic bird species. Camping (up to 40 persons), hiking, 6-km mountain bike trail. Nursery sells decorative flowers and plants.
Area 5Canal de Luis Peña Natural Reserve (more) > Puerto Rico > Culebra
787-860-5628
Beaches Bird-Watching Diving & Snorkeling Kayaking Snorkel
The Canal de Luis Peña is a marine nature reserve and no fishing area. It encompasses the northwest point of Cayo de Luis Peña north to Península Flamenco and the south point of Cayo de Luis Peña to Punta Melones.
Area 6Carite Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Cayey
787-747-4545
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 184 Km 27.5.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Camping Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary
Southeast of Caguas. Pine plantations with camping at Charco Azul and Guavate. Daytime picnics are allowed along Rt 184 between Km 26 to 11.7. Cayey Region.
Area 5Ceiba Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Ceiba
787-852-6088
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-850-0085FX
End of Rt 195, Sector Santa Rita.
drna.gobierno.pr
Beaches Bird-Watching Fishing Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
Running along the coastline between Fajardo and Ceiba, 95% of the forest is classified as mangrove forest with birds, turtles and manatees.
Area 1Central Office, Forest Reserves (more) > Puerto Rico > San Juan Metro
787-999-2200
787-999-2295FX
Rt 8838 Km 6.3.
drna.gobierno.pr
Information Star Listing
Island-wide information center for all of the forests. Call here for camping permits or special events.
Area 4Cerrillos Forest/Reservoir (more) > Puerto Rico > Ponce
787-847-9174
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-841-3101FX
Rt 139.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Fishing Kayaking Mountains
This reservoir (named Toa Vaca) and greenhouse area is under development. About 10mi/15km outside of Ponce.
Area 5Culebra National Wildlife Refuge (more) > Puerto Rico > Culebra
Culebra National Wildlife Refuge Photo 787-742-0115
787-742-1303FX
Lower Camp near Cemetery.
fws.gov
Beaches Bird-Watching Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing
Established in 1909 by President Theodore Roosevelt, this stunning nature refuge covers 1,580 acres, which encompass part of Culebra and 23 adjacent islands and rock formations, all maintained in their natural state. It has been managed by US Fish and Wildlife Service since 1980. Migratory seabirds are numerous and visible near the outer islands during the late spring and summer. Sea turtles nest on numerous refuge beaches. Beaches and trails on Isla Culebrita and Cayo de Luis Peña are open to the public during daylight hours. Please observe our simple guidelines posted on the beaches of both islands. All other Refuge areas are closed due to the sensitive nature of the habitat and unexploded ordnance remaining from past military use.
Area 3Desecheo National Wildlife Refuge (more) > Puerto Rico > Rincón
Desecheo National Wildlife Refuge Photo 787-851-7258
787-851-7440
fws.gov
Diving & Snorkeling Star Listing
This reserve is just northwest of Rincón, about 12 miles out. It has some of the clearest waters and best diving in Puerto Rico. Snorkelers will find plenty to see in the shallows. The refuge itself is closed and you cannot enter the island.
Area 5El Portal Rain Forest Center (more) > Puerto Rico > Río Grande
El Portal Rain Forest Center Photo 787-888-1810
787-888-5613
787-888-5622FX
Rt 191 Km 4.2.
fs.fed.us
Bird-Watching Entrance Fee Hiking Information Star Listing Special-Needs Travelers
Located at the entrance to El Yunque, this beautiful structure has the feel of a tropical hacienda with its magnificent views, water feature and open spaces. There is an orientation area to help the visitors plan their trip into El Yunque as well as 3 interpretive pavilions that describe the forest and its unique ecosystem. The theater presents an educational film (alternating English and Spanish) every 15 minutes. The bookstore offers all kinds of books and souvenirs that are related to the rain forest. A nature trail is located nearby. The facilities can be rented for private evening activities.
Area 3Guajataca Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Isabela
Guajataca Forest Photo 787-872-1045
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 446 south of Rt 2.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Caves Hiking Lookout Tower Mountains
Hiking trail system (44Kms) wonderful opportunity to view the local vegetation. Bird-watching, excellent scenery, camping area in karst region. also Cueva del Viento (Cave of the Wind) a cave with calcium formations.
Area 3Guánica Dry Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Guánica
Guánica Dry Forest Photo 787-821-5706
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 333 to Rt 334 & follow signs.
drna.gobierno.pr
Beaches Biking Bird-Watching Caves Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
A World Biosphere Reserve. Cactus, 400-year-old Guayacán tree, bird-watching, beaches, picnic area & visitors center. For biking, get permission from the visitors center. You can also visit the Fuerte Caprón and Cuevas de Cal.
Area 6Guayama Region, Forest Reserves (more) > Puerto Rico > Cayey
787-864-0105
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-864-0105FX
drna.gobierno.pr
Information
Central information for Aguirre & Carite Forests.
Area 4Guilarte Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Adjuntas
Guilarte Forest Photo 787-829-5767
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 518 or Rt 131.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Camping Fishing Hiking Lookout Tower Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary
Just west of Adjuntas. Hiking trail to Guilarte Peak & visitors center, a recreational area for the family, grills and huts available. Five cabins with capacity for 6 persons. Room for walking, exploring, bird watching, fishing and more.
Area 5Humacao Region, Forest Reserves (more) > Puerto Rico > Humacao
787-852-6088
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-850-0085FX
drna.gobierno.pr
Information
Central information for Ceiba Forest and the Humacao Wildlife Reserve.
Area 5Humacao Wildlife Reserve (more) > Puerto Rico > Humacao
Humacao Wildlife Reserve Photo 787-852-6088
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-852-6088FX
Rt 3 Km 74.3, Río Abajo.
drna.gobierno.pr
Biking Bird-Watching Camping Fishing Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing
A wildlife reserve of great ecological importance located along the Humacao and Naguabo coasts. This historic sugar-cane area features an interconnected lagoon system and an ancient water pumping station. An ideal environment for aquatic birds, native and endemic flora and fauna. Self-guided walking tours. Kayak and bicycle accessible.
Area 2Lago La Plata Recreation Area (more) > Puerto Rico > Toa Alta
787-723-6435
787-999-2200 ext 2718
Rt 824 Km 4.9, follow the signs.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Fishing Kayaking Star Listing
Opened March 11, 2004, this recreation area promotes lake sportfishing and is set on a rolling hillside with 24 new picnic shelters with BBQ grills. Anglers and their families can fish for largemouth bass and other species supplied by the Maricao Fish Hatchery. Part of a sportfish restoration project funded by the US Fish and Wildlife service and managed by the DNPR. There is another facility at Lago de Guajataca in San Sebastián.
Area 3Laguna Cartagena National Wildlife Refuge (more) > Puerto Rico > Lajas
787-851-7258
787-255-6725
Rt 101 Km 12.2.
fws.gov
Bird-Watching Lookout Tower Reserve / Sanctuary
This fresh water lagoon is excellent for birding as a great variety of bird species reside here and in the nearby hills. Best time to visit is from August thru March when water levels are high and the migrant and resident birds are plentiful.
Area 3Maricao Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Maricao
787-838-1040
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-999-2295FX
Rt 120 South.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Hiking Lookout Tower Mountains
Observation tower, stone house, hiking and bird-watching. On a clear day you can see Mona Island from the tower. The greatest diversity in plants in Puerto Rico and a paradise for bird-watchers (over 60 species).
Area 3Mona Island Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Cabo Rojo: Mona Island
787-999-2200
787-851-3600
787-999-2295FX
drna.gobierno.pr
Beaches Bird-Watching Camping Caves Diving & Snorkeling Fishing Hiking Reserve / Sanctuary Snorkel
A unique island nature reserve 50 miles west of Cabo Rojo. Hiking, camping, fishing and diving. No bathroom facilities, water or electricity. Permits required from the Department of Natural Resources.
Area 3Parguera Nature Reserve (more) > Puerto Rico > Lajas: La Parguera
Parguera Nature Reserve Photo 787-899-7484
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 304, east of La Parguera.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Hiking Mangroves Pool Reserve / Sanctuary Sailing & Watersports Snorkel
One of the greatest coastal mangrove systems in Puerto Rico, great for bird-watching, snorkeling and small boat trips. Picnic area. Home to the Bioluminescent Bay in La Parguera.
Area 5Piñones Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Loíza
Piñones Forest Photo 787-791-7750
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-999-2295FX
Rt 187, east of Isla Verde.
drna.gobierno.pr
Beaches Biking Bird-Watching Hiking Kayaking Lookout Tower Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary
This is an excellent recreation area just east of Carolina and easily accessible. Sand dunes, beaches, lookout tower and boardwalk through the mangroves. Laguna de Piñones.
Area 4Ponce Region, Forest Reserves (more) > Puerto Rico > Ponce
787-844-4051
787-844-6733FX
Santiago de los Caballeros Ave.
drna.gobierno.pr
Information
Central information for Cerrillos, Guilarte & Toro Negro Forests.
Area 4Refugio de Vida Silvestre (more) > Puerto Rico > Yauco
Refugio de Vida Silvestre Photo 787-856-4887
787-856-4887FX
Rt 128 Km 12.3.
Bird-Watching Camping Fishing Kayaking Special-Needs Travelers
Wildlife refuge which includes Luchetti Lake and an area for camping. Reservations required for camping.
Area 3Refugio de Vida Silvestre del Embalse Guajataca (more) > Puerto Rico > San Sebastián
787-896-7640
Rt 119 Km 22.1.
Guided Tours On-Site
A lake used mostly for irrigation, some fishing and boating. A small floating dock and sanitary facilities are available.
Area 4Reserva Nacional de Investigación Estuarina Bahía de Jobos (more) > Puerto Rico > Salinas
Reserva Nacional de Investigación Estuarina Bahía de Jobos Photo 787-853-4617
787-853-3569
787-853-4618FX
Rt 705 Km 2.3.
ctp.uprm.edu
Bird-Watching Children's Activities Diving & Snorkeling Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Information Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing
Estuarine Reserve with forest-salt flat and kayak trails, information center and museum. Guided tours to hiking trails for 10 or more people can be coordinated prior to arrival. Kayak and boat rentals are not available.
Area 2Reserva Natural Laguna Tortuguero (more) > Puerto Rico > Vega Baja
Reserva Natural Laguna Tortuguero Photo 787-807-1830
787-855-5905
787-858-4101FX
Rt 687 Km 1.2.
vegabaja.gov.pr
Biking Bird-Watching Climbing Fishing Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Kayaking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing
The Tortuguero Lagoon reserve is formed by bodies of water, swamps, marshland and several mogotes (loaf-shaped mountains of limestone worn away by seeping water). It is home to exotic flowers and several endangered species. The Ecotourism Office offers information as well as tours by appointment.
Area 4Reserva Natural Mariposario Las Limas (more) > Puerto Rico > Guayama
Reserva Natural Mariposario Las Limas Photo 787-864-6037
787-866-6756
787-864-5133FX
Rt 747 Km 0.7, Sector Culebra.
Bird-Watching Children's Activities Entrance Fee Guided Tours On-Site
Wildlife reserve with walking trails, heliconia gardens, native butterflies of Puerto Rico and the Antilles, a museum and fish estuary.
Area 6Río Abajo Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Utuado
Río Abajo Forest Photo 787-880-6557
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-999-2295FX
Rt 621 Km 4.4.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Camping Caves Hiking Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary
One of five state forests created in 1943 in the Karstic region of Utuado and Arecibo. Camping by permit only.
Area 1San Juan Region, Forest Reserves (more) > Puerto Rico > San Juan Metro
787-724-3687
787-721-5984FX
drna.gobierno.pr
Biking Bird-Watching Hiking Information Mangroves
Central information for Piñones forest.
Area 3Susua Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Sabana Grande
787-502-6754
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-999-2295FX
Rt 368 Km 2.1.
drna.gobierno.pr
Biking Bird-Watching Camping Hiking Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary
Mountain bike trail (get permission at the visitors center), carbonate formations, bird-watching and camping in cabins.
Area 4Toro Negro State Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Jayuya
787-867-3040
787-999-2200 ext 5158
787-867-3040FX
Rd 143 Km 32.4, east of Rt 149.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Camping Fishing Guided Tours On-Site Hiking Kayaking Lookout Tower Mountains Pool Reserve / Sanctuary
Tallest peaks in Puerto Rico: Cerro Punta & Cerro La Rosa. Great hiking with lots to see: waterfall, lake, river, lookout tower & birding. Very helpful ranger station on the road. Located in Jayuya, Orocovis, Ciales, Villalba, Ponce and Juana Díaz.
Area 2Vega Forest (more) > Puerto Rico > Vega Alta
Vega Forest Photo 787-883-2240
787-833-2393
787-999-2200 ext 5158
Rt 676 Km 1.5.
drna.gobierno.pr
Bird-Watching Caves Hiking Information Mountains Reserve / Sanctuary
Partially in Vega Alta and Vega Baja. A sub-tropical forest in the karst region with caves, hiking trails, deep sinkholes & over 30 types of trees and plants.
Area 5Vieques National Wildlife Refuge (more) > Puerto Rico > Vieques
Vieques National Wildlife Refuge Photo 787-741-2138
787-741-2158FX
fws.gov
Beaches Biking Bird-Watching Fishing Hiking Mangroves Reserve / Sanctuary Star Listing
This refuge includes several habitats: beaches, coastal lagoons, mangrove wetlands and forests. It also includes coral reefs, sea grass beds and is a refuge for four endangered species of plants and ten endangered animal species including the Caribbean West Indian manatee, the brown pelican and four species of turtles.
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