Critical coastal wildlife areas of Puerto Rico

[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]

CRITICAL COASTAL WILDLIFE AREAS OF PUERTO RICO

By Julio E. Cardona and Manuel Rivera

PUERTO RICO

Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
Department of Natural Resources
Or Puerto Rico Coastal Zone Management Program
Scientific Research Area
QL Son Juan, Puerto Rico
84.285
T8
C75 September 1988
0*

1988

Itl
i

10,

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
WASHINGTON, D. C.

M
I

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to acknowledge all the people who have helped
in the completion of this study. The names of persons who gave
of their valuable time giving us information, transportation, and
companionship would fill several pages. Almost all dependencies
of the Department of Natural Resources were involved at one time
or another. This is the case of the Ranger Corps, Bureau of
Reserves, Refuges and Sanctuaries and the Forest Service,
Scientific Inventory Division, the Corporation for the
Development and Conservation of Culebra, the Resident Biologists
and Management Officers of the different Reserves and State
Forests, the Terrestrial Resources Division of the Planning Area,
and the Marine Resources Section of the Scientific Research Area.

Personnel of several Commonwealth agencies, such as the
Lands Administration, Lands Authority, and the Department of
Agriculture also were extremely helpful and efficient in
providing requested information and maps. Federal agencies
include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service of the Department of
the Interior, the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the
Environmental Officers of the different dependencies of the U. S.
Armed Forces in Puerto Rico.

Special thanks are due Dr. Jose L. Vivaldi who gave us
enthusiasm and administrative expertise. Dr. Vivaldi also gave
invaluable editorial services for the final version of the
manuscript. Miss Giovanna Fuentes colaborated immensely in the
preparation of maps and drafting in general. Her assistance
greatly improved the uality of illustrations and made meeting
deadlines possible. Personnel of the Office of Coastal Zone
Management were invaluable in helping surmount the drudgery of
paperwork for the processing of purchase orders arid many other
aspects of this work. Our Monitor, Miss Marianela Torres, and
the Office Director, Professor Ines Monefeldt took a special
interest in seeing that everything related to this task worked
out as smoothly as possible, with great success. Ms. Jacqueline
Rousseau, of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
also took a personal interest in the completion of this work and
helped refine its focus.

To Barbara Cintron, Director of the Technical Assessment
Division of the DNR, we are thankful for suggesting the study,
drafting t0he original proposal, and providing support and
encouragement. Mr. Jose Gonzalez Liboy, former Director of the
Office of Coastal Zone Management, gave indefatigable support,

enthusiasm and administrative expertise during most of the f irst
year of @his study. To all, we extend our deepest gratitude.

Last, but not least, we want to express our gratitude to our
families -for enduring prolonged absences during field trips with
utmost patience, and for providing support, encouragement and
enthusiasm throughout the duration of this Study.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgements

IntrodU~Ction I

D ~qi ~sc~quss~qi o~n 4

I- Torr~qecill~a~-F`i~qgones, V~aci~qa T~i~aleg~a Complex 7

2- T~orrecill~qa Alta 9

3- Constitution Bridge Mudfl~ats to

4- Palo ~4qSec~qo Peninsula It

5- ~0qBU~Ch~qan~an Haystack Hills ~q1~q:~q7~1

6-- Fort Buchanan Pond ~q1~4q3

7- San Pedro Swamp 14

8~-~-- Lakes a~nd Forests of Dorado Beach
an~qd Cerrom~ar Beach Hotels 16

9~.~- Cib~quc~qo Swamp 17

1 ~q(~)~- T~ortUgU~qe~-ro Lagoon, F~-~0qUc~a ~0qL~a~qke
a~n~qd Cabo C~aribe Swamp ~q1~4q8

I I--- L~a~qke Puerto Nuevo 19

12~- Tibur~qone~s Swamp 2~(~-~-)

L~qa Tembl~qader~qa Lagoon 21

14~- C~arriz~ale~s Mangrove 22

1~0q5~- G~qu~qa~qi~at~qac~a Cliffs 22

16~- ~4qBell~qac~a Creek 23

17~q- Barrio Coto 24

1~24q8- C~qayure 24

19~q- P~8qozo Hondo 25

20- Sabanetas Swamp 26

21- Guanajibo Mangrove 27

22- Joyuda Lagoon 28

23- Cuevas Lagoon 29

24- Guaniquilla Lagoons 29

25- Boqueron Refuge 30

26- Cabo Rojo Saltflats and Cliffs 32

27- Cartagena Lagoon 32

28- La Parguera 34

29- Guanica State Forest-West 37

30- Guanica Lagoon 38

31- Guanica State Forest-East
and adjacent lands 39

32- San Jacinto Salt Flats 41

33- Lluveras 42

34- Cabullon Mangrove 43

35- Caja de Muertos and Morrillito Islands 43

36- Frios Cays 44

37- Berberia Cay 45

38- Punta Petrona Mangrove 46

39- Caracoles Cay 47

40- Punta Arenas 48

41- Mar Negro 48

42- Punta Pozuelo 50

43- Pandura Mountain Range 50

44- Humacao Swamp 51

45- Roosevelt Roads Naval Base 53

46- Fajardo Coastline 54

47- Fajardo Cordillera 55

48- Grande Lagoon and
adjacent lands 56

49- Aguas Prietas Lagoon 57

50- Ensenada Comezon 58

51- Cienaga Baja 58

52- Culebra's Surrounding Islets 59

53- Flamenco Peninsula 60

54- Flamenco Lagoon 61

55- Cornelius Lagoon 62

56- Resaca Mountain 63

57- Resaca Beach 63

58- Brava Beach 64

59- Larga Beach and Zoni Lagoon 65

60- Puerto del Manglar 66

61- Cementerio Bay 67

62- Los Canos 68

63- East Point of Vieques 68

64- Conejo Island 69

65- Ensenada Honda Mangrove 69

66- Chiva Swamp 70

67- Yanuel Lagoon 71

68- Tapon Bay 71

iii

69- Mosquito Bay, Ensenada Sombe and Ferro Day 72

70- West Vieques 73

71- Monito Island 75

72- Mona Island 76

73- Desecheo Island 78

74- Palmas Pond, Arroyo 79

Literature Cited 8O

Index Map 85

Symbols utilized on maps 86

Critical Wildlife Area Maps 87-138

Photographs of Critical Wildlife Areas 139-169

Scientific and Common Names of Species Mentioned in Text 170

Scientific and Common Names of threatened and endangered
fauna mentioned in the text 173

INTRODUCTION

This document is the result of a two year effort to revise
the status of those areas found in the coastal zone of Puerto
Rico and its satellite islands that were included in the report
"Critical Wildlife Areas of Puerto Rico" (Department of Natural
Resources 1979). A supplement to that document (Moreno and PL6rez
1980) added eighteen other areas of which eight were considered
for this revision. Seventy-four areas are discussed in this
document. For the purposes of this document coastal critical
wildlife areas are those that Support or serve as a refuge for
endangered, threatened, rare game and:non-game species and are at
least partially located LIP to one i.-:ilometer inland from the
coastline. Exceptions to the distance rule were made if an -area
was located not far from this limit and supported critically
threatened or endangered fauna usually associated with coastal
habitats Such as Cartagena and Gu6nica lagoons.

The main purpose in updating the status of these areas was
to assess changes in habitat quality and to incorporate
in-formation on wildlife use that has become available after the
publication of the 1979 document and 1980 supplement. Regarding
habitat quality we were particularly interested in documenting
the degree of encroachment by urbanization or other types of
development, degradation, wildlife use and changes in vegetation
and size of important habitats. A consideration of our findings
is found in the discussion.

This study focused on areas supporting critically threatened
or endangered wildlife species and those associated with wetlands
and marine or aquatic habitats. These species often are of
limited distribution or depend on habitats of narrowly defined
physical characteristics for breedingg feeding, and other
maintenance activities. As in the 1979 document, we focused an
areas Of unique features. For example, endangered sea turtles
and the West Indian Manatee occur throughout all coastal waters
in Puerto RicO, but classifying the entire coastline as critical
would be impr4actical.

Wildlife considered in this document includes reptiles,
amphibians, birds, and coastal mammals. However, birds are
emphasized throughout the text. Even though several endangered

whale speci6s Occur around Puerto Rico, these are excluded from
consideration. The West Indian Manatee, endangered throughout
its entire range, is the only mammal considered in detail. The
emphasis on this set of taxa is similar to that of the 1979
document.

Species considered fall Linder one or more of the following
categories:

I- species considered endangered or threatened under the
federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended;

2- species considered endangered or threatened Linder the
Regulation to Govern the Management of Threatened and
Endangered Species in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico;

3- species of importance to hunting, even if their hunting
Js now prohibited and they do not belong to any of the
above categories;

4- aquatic, wading and shorebirds, migratory or resident,
which largely depend on coastal habitats Lip to about
one kilometer inland

Categories 1-3 are similar to those in DNR (1979). The
fourth category was added for this revision. Other wildlife
species are mentioned in the text to provide additional
information on the -faunal composition of the areas. This is
particularly the case with species of limited distribution, for
which data on their occurrence in the areas were not available in
1979.

In 1977 only fourteen (14) animal species occuring in the
Island were considered threatened or endangered under the federal
Endangered Species Act. At present (September 1988) eight bird,
-two amhpibian, eleven reptile, and four mammal species are
Federally listed as threatened or endangered. Conversely, the
preliminary Commonwealth list of endangered and threatened
species of 1973 (which was never formally adopted), on which the
second category above was based, contained many more animals than
the currently applicable Endangered and Threatened Species
Regulation promulgated by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico in
August Of 1985.

Species listed as threatened or endangered Linder the
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, which occur in Puerto
Rico are automatically included in the Commonwealth list.
Thirteen (13) other species are covered by the local regulations,
for a total of thirty-eight species under Commonwealth or Federal

protection.- In addition, six gamebird species are considered
rare enough that hunting them is prohibited in Puerto Rico and
its satellite islands. These are the White-crowned Pigeon, three
quail-doves, the Purple GallinUle and the Bahama Duck. The
focus Of this book is directed to these forty-three (4-3) species
and to those that -fall under category 4 listed above. Species
that are Federally-listed as Endangered or Threatened are
indicated by the letters (FE) or (FT), respectively, immediately
following their common name. This is done at least once in the
description of each area. Similarly, those included in the
Commonwe,alth list as Endangered or Threatened are indicated by
(CE) or (CT). Although this is repetitive across areas, we felt
it was necessary and convenient for the use we envision for this
document.

In general we did not focus on plants Occurring in the
areas, although a brief description of the vegetation is given.
Most maps include vegetational features in some detail. However,
we did emphasize the occurrence of Pterocarpus stands throughout
the document, as this freshwater association is in great danger
in Puerto Rico and to alert users of this document to their
presence. Plants are treated in detail by the DNR Natural
Heritage Program, and we urge users of this book to seek their
orientation whenever necessary. Also the DNR is preparing an
wetlands inventory that is in its final stages as of this
writing.

Additional data have been obtained on many of the wildlife
species considered in this document since 1979. Much of this
information is contained in Agency reports and manuscripts.
Those that we were able to obtain are referenced in the text.
However, we depended more than we Would have liked on personal
communications with colleagues on the -field of ecology, and this
is acknowledged when appropriate. We urge these colleagues to
make -this and other relevant information on the Island's wildlife
available through formal forums. Also, we did not attempt to
include, except on a very few cases, references cited in the 1979
document. Readers are urged to consult that document for the
older references.

We followed the 1979 document in classifying areas as of
primary or secondary importance to wildlife. In updating their
evaluations, we felt that some changes were warranted in view of
more recent information. Some areas have been upgraded to
primary status and vice-versa. In the case of Puerto Nuevo
Lagoon in Vega Baia, we felt that its extreme degradation and
encroachment warranted changing its status and considered it of
minimal importance to wildlife. On the other hand, three new
areas are described in the text. The Bellaca Creek in
Quebradillas is now known to support the threatened Puerto Rican

Crest'ed Toad. Pozo Hondo in AZasco is probably of importance for
the regional movements of rare waterfowl, such as the Masked,
Ruddy and West Indian Whistling ducks. These species are known
to move between localities, and the availability of a network of
areas, albeit small, but with adequate h,@Lbitat appears to be. of
increasing importance (see Simberloff and Abele 1982, for
example). This area is also utilized by migratory waterfowl.
Palmas pond, in Arroyo, was formed after failure of draining
pumps 9 similar to the case of the Humacao Swamp. Several
threatened waterfowl species, as well as species of importance to
hunters occur in the area. Its inclusion occurred after two
drafts of the document were completed, and we decided to place it
at the end of the book. While this breaks the counterclockwise
sequence of the descriptions, we felt that its importance
outweighs this inconvenience.

The +ifty-two maps included illustrate all 74 areas.
Several threatened, endangered, or rare species, and in a few
cases, species characteristic of the area, are shown by means of
numbers identified in each map's legend. Wetland and mangrove
vegetation, as well as PterocarQUS stands, are shown except when
these were too small illustrate. Also, mangrove and wetland
area-s in CaZo Tiburones (Map No. 9), and Punta Pozuelo and Mar
Negro (map No. 33), were not shown because other relevant
information, such as the location of these areas' many ponds,
Would have been lost. Photographs of a number of areas are also
included.

A list of the common English and scientific names of all
species mentioned in the text is found near the end of the
document. We followed Raffaele's (1983) nomenclature -for birds
whenever possible, because this is a readily available reference
for most of the expected users of this document. There are very
few exceptions. For example, We use Green-backed Heron instead
of Raf+aele's Green Heron to avoid confusion with another species
not occurring in the Island. Birds are listed in the order they
appear in that book. In addition We use the Currently accepted
Peltophryne lemur instead of Bufo lemur.

DISCUSSION

This section is intended to be a brief summary of findings
of the evaluations performed during this study.

Of the seventy-three areas included in this document, sixty-
four (about 88 percent) contain wetlands as one of their
principal components. Habitat reduction is one of the principal
Causes of lowered wildlife population levels. Coastal wetlands
are under severe pressure -for development. Industrial,
recreational, agricultural and housing are some of the more
common demands for development in coastal areas.

In a small island with high population density, this often
results in degradation and sometimes the elimination of areas
considered of importance for wildlife. Examples of this can be
found in the public and private sectors. The area of Palo Seco
peninsula, in Catago, has been reduced significantly by the
construction of a recreational park. At Demajagua Bay, part of
the Fajardo Coastline area, construction of a large scale private
fnarina is well underway. At Cago Tiburones, agricultural and
industrial pressures compete for the use of what could be
restored as the largest swamp in Puerto Rico. The small Puerto
Nuevo lagoon has become degraded, probably beyond restoration,
due to the widespread encroachment of housing around its margins
and the reSUltingdischarge of sewage that led to its present
condition, choked with cattails.

In revising the Status Of the coastal areas discussed in the
1979 document we had the opportunity to assess changes that have
occurred in the span of approximately a decade. Based on field
evaluations and analysis of aerial photographs we found that
slightly over a third of the seventy-three areas have become
degraded. Varying degrees of encroachment were evident in about
half of the areas. Loss of habitat was found in one fourth of
these. The Puerto Nuevo lagoon is an extreme example. The
number with evident habitat loss is equally divided among areas
of public and private ownership (five each). Areas with combined
public and private ownership were excluded from this tally.
Three out of ten Such areas evidenced habitat reduction. In the
Cabo Rojo salt flats, good shorebird habitat was lost with the
expansion of salt production ponds.

On the other hand, the amount of habitat increased in about
one tenth of the areas. For our purposes, habitat increase is an
extension of one or more features utilized by wildlife beyond the
limits of the 1979 document maps. For example, in the Humacao
swamp area, desirable habitat (open water, wetland vegetation,
etc.) is currently about twice as much compared to 1979. As a
result waterfowl Populations have either immigrated and colonized
or increased in number. Other instances are not as extreme, but
in some cases mangroves have recolonized portions of adjacent
abandoned agricultural fields, such as in the Guanajibo Mangrove.
This was generally the case in areas that increased in size.

The above results may not seem overly encouraging. However,
the past decade has seen significant strides concerning wildlife
protection. The creation of the DNR's Bureau of Reserves,
Refuges and Sanctuaries has resulted in improved protection and
management of many areas. Also, management officers of the DNR's
Forest Area are generally more aware of wildlife issues and
protection, resulting in better protection of wildlife in State

Forests. -Furthermore, Federal agencies such as the Fish and
,Wildlife Service have become involved in research and management
.of a larger number of species. Several areas have been protected
and designated as National Wildlife Refuges. The Department of
Defense, which has a number of excellent areas under its
Jurisdiction, is more concerned about wildlife protection than a
decade ago. A number of those areas have been set aside for
conservation, Such as mangrove forests in the Roosevelt Roads and
Vieques naval facilities.

There is room for improvement regarding the preparation and
implementation of management plans. Hopefully, there will be
considerable progress in these areas over the next -few years.
Interagency communication and coordination is another aspect that
should be improved in the fUtUre. Possibly, Much of the habitat
degradation documented throughout this text might have been
avoided had there been better Communication. Regulating and
zoning authorities should be made better aware of the importance
of areas critical to wildlife, so that these are preserved for
-the benefit of future generations.

In closing this discussion we Would like to add that we-made
preliminary evaluations of several inland areas, and in general
these had become substantially degraded relative to 1979. An
update of their status is overdue.

CRITICAL COASTAL WILDLIFE AREAS

1- Torrecilla-Pi?;cnes, Vacia Talega Complex (Loiza--Carolina) M__1

This site is located east of the metropolitan area of San
Juan. More than acres in area, its vegetation is
dominated by mangrove -forests, but other plant Communities occur,
Such as littoral woodland, freshwater swamp and marshes, and
coconut plantations. The PiZones State Forest portion of this
large and complex area was designated a Natural Reserve in 1979.
Several technical documents have been prepared for this area.
Information on water quality is found in Rodriguez (1981) , an
environmental evaluation was prepared by Palacios (1981).
Details on the flora are contained in Del Llano et al. (198o).
The avifauna was summarized by Perez and Ferrer (1980).

The' Forest Supports a diverse fauna including birds,
reptiles, fish, and crabs, among others. We found four species
of fiddler crabs. Reptiles are represented by several lizard
species and a considerable population of the native fresh water
turtle. The area is popular among fishermen, which harvest a
number of species both for commerce and sport.

At least 89 bird species have been recorded from the area
(Perez and Ferrer 1980). The large variety of species ocurring
in the area was evident during the field evaluation of this area.
It Supports a large number of herons and egrets, a considerable
population of the Brown Pelican (FE), terns and gulls. The Great
Egret was observed nesting at Carmelita island. We also
observed one individual of the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird (FE)
-foraging along with a number of Greater Antillean Grackles and
Shiny Cowbirds. One pair of Blackbirds was later found nesting
in the Forest's recreational area next to the administrative
offices. The West Indian Whistling Duck. (CT) and Masked DL(C[-".
(CT) have been reported from the area by hunters (Perez and
Ferrer 1980).

A variety of migratory birds such as WaterthrUshes,
Kingfishers, Ospreys, and a variety of warblers are abundant
during the winter months. During one of Our trips to the area we
observed one Double-crested Cormorant. This species is
accidental in Puerto Rico.

The construction of a bridge over the Loiza River and the
widening and paving of road 187 connecting Loiza and PiFones have
greatly increased vehicular traffic movement through the area. A
sand dune was rebuilt by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to
mitigate beach erosion, which intermittently occurs in a few

areas near the coast. Most of this sand dune was destroyed by
heavy seas in late 1987.

Reforestation of the sand dunes and the placement of short
posts to keep out off-road vehicles are some of the activities
and improvements made by DNR personnel in the State Forest area.
There is great pressure for development of large tracts of
privately owned lands, especially in the eastern end of the
Forest and the Vacia Talega sector. This has been the subject of
heated debate in the Commonwealth's Legislature and represents
the greatest threat to the future of this magnificent Forest, the
largest remaining mangrove forest of the Island.

The area is under great pressure because of the recreational
demands of a population pool of nearly one million people,
residents of the San Juan metropolitan area. Current
recreational demand is concentrated along the coastal segment,
especially in the beaches and remnant sand dunes. This demand
clashes directly with the reproductive needs of endangered sea
turtles. Turtle nest searches are conducted regularly during the
breeding season by Forest personnel and volunteers. This has
kept poaching and accidental nest destruction to a minimum. The
Leatherback (FE) sea turtle nests frequently in the area's sandy
beaches. The Hawi.-:sbill sea turtle (FE) also nests in the area,
although in smaller numbers.

Another major threat to the area, of more lasting and
destructive consequences, is in the form of private enterprise.
Upscale residential developments and hotels are being proposed
-for private sectors within the eastern portion of the proposed
Natural Reserve of Torrecilla Alta. These projects have received
the public support of the town's Mayor and a number of Loiza
residents, who apparently believe the Natural Reserve is limiting
that town's economic development.

A Management Plan for Boca de Cangrejos Special Planning
Area is being prepared by private consultants to the Planning
Board, and is due in the near future. Much of the wildlife's
wellbeing within both the designated and proposed N@tural
Reserves will hinge upon the objectives and recommendations of
this plan.

With the ongoing accelerated degradation of the Constitution
Bridge mud+lats, the role of the Torrecilla-Pigones complex for
migrant and resident wading and shorebirds is magnified. It is a
primary wildlife area.

2- Torrecil-la Alta (Loiza-Carolina) M-1

This large complex of freshwater swamps and marshes is
located west of the Loiza River, near its mouth, in Loiza. It is
adjacent to the Torrecilla-PiWones, Vacia Talega complex. The
Area is composed, to a large extent, of cattails and other
characteristic plants of swamps and marshes. In addition,
several Pterocarpus stands are located near the center and near
-the base of haystack hills to the south of the area. The eastern
and western margins of this area are largely surrounded by
abandoned agricultural lands and pastures for cattle grazing. A
portion of the area is owned by the Commonwealth's Lands
Administration and the rest is privately owned.

The Torrecilla Alta area was included in the 1979 Critical
Wildlife Areas primarily because of its potential for development
as a waterfowl hunting area with appropriate management. It was
also believed to support numbers of the West Indian Whistling
Duc@:. (CT), as well as the rare White-crowned Pigeon, whose
hunting is prohibited in Puerto Rico.

During field evaluation of the area we did not observe
either species. However, nearby residents informed us that the
Whistling Duck can sometimes be observed at dusk, crossing over
-to the east of the Loiza River. Two field trips at dusk were
unproductive. Portions of the area are popular pigeon and dove
hunting grounds, and hunters claim White Crowned Pigeons can be
observed with fair regularity. This has not been confirmed in
-the field by DNR personnel working on a long term research
project on columbid game species (Frank Rivera, Pers. Comm.).
Great Blue Herons and American Bitterns were observed in the area
in the early 1980's (Barbara Cintr6n, Pers'. Comm.).

Some degree of encroachment is evident along the southern
limit of the area. There, an increasing number of houses have
been built on the southern face of the haystack hills.

Recommendations in the 1979 document regarding the blasting
of potholes to promote and diversify waterfowl use of the area
are still applicable and desirable. Portions of the area of
little use for agriculture Could be leased or otherwise obtained
from the Lands Authority for that purpose. Designation of
Torrecilla Alta as a Natural Reserve is highly desirable for its
adequate management and protection. Torrecilla alta is a primary
wildlife area.

3- Constitution Bridge Mudflats (San Juan) M-2

The Constitution Bridge mudflats are located in the eastern
end of San Juan Bay, at the confluency of the Martin Pega Canal
and the Puerto Nuevo River. The area is one of the richest in
avifaunal diversity in-the Island. Approximately 62 aquatic and
31 terrestrial species have been recorded in the area (Diaz-
Marrero et@ al. 1983). These figures include migratory, resident,
and introduced species. Mud+lats in the area along the Martfn
Pei@a Canal were extremely valuable for migrating shorebirds. The
1979 document indicated that as many as 5000 birds Could be seen
in the mud-flats in a single day. Diaz et al. (1983) should be
consulted for a detailed description of the area's vegetation and
f aUn a.

Two endangered species, the Yellow-shOUldered Blackbird (FE)
and the Brown Pelican (FE),occur in the area. The Roseate (FT)
and Least (FT) terns have also been reported from the area. At
present, ten ardeid species have been documented as breeding in
the area (Diaz et al. 1983). Several of these nest near the
entrance of the Martin Pega Canal.

This area is presently highly degraded due to the
construction, in progress, of the AgUa-GUagua mass transportation
system. An artificial mudflat was constructed north of a narrow
mangrove stand at the mouth of the canal as mitigation for the
lost MUdflats along the Martin Pega Canal.

This site, once one of the best feeding and roosting areas
for marine and wading birds in particular may be on its way to
disappearing due to the combined effects of this and other
projects, Such as the projected channelization of the Puerto
Nuevo River and the expansion of the docking facilities of the
San Juan harbor. Landfill operations for the placement of main
electrical wire posts by the Electric Energy Authority and the
Municipal Public Works Office have further reduced areas -Occupied
by mangroves.

Other developments that have or will contribute to further
degradation of the area include the New Center of San Juan City
and the Central Park on opposite extremes of the area. The
latter was built for the Pan American Games of 1979. A few years
after construction of the Central Park, Yellow-shouldered
Blackbirds ceased to be sighted from the area. In addition,
plans are well underway for the contruction of a 70 million
dollar project including a marina, hotel, mall, and docking
facilities capable of accomodating cruise ships in the Hoare
sector of Santurce. The project will be located near the mud-flat
built as mitigation -for the lost MUdflats along the Martin Pega
Canal. It will all but destroy the wildlife value of this once
magnificent locality.

I C-)

At the time of this evaluation, the Constitution Bridge area
.although extremely degraded relative to 1979, is still a primary
wildlife area, but prospects for its continued existence are
grim.

4- Palo Seco Peninsula (Cata'Ko) M-3

This 3(__) acre peninsula located in the north-West Sector of
San Juan Bay was created in 1963 with dredged sands from the bay
-to afford protection from wave action to the Bay View area
coastline in the Municipality of Catago. During its 25 years of
existence the newly created land surface has become colonized and
-thickly overgrown by mangroves, Australian Pine (Casuarina
eqUisetifolia), Emajaguilla (Thespesia populnea), grasses, vines,
and a variety of other plants.

Since the peninsula is chiefly made up of sand and is
subject to strong currents and wave action, its shape and
position is quite dynamic. Studies performed in the IT70's
estimated a southward migration of its hammer shaped tip at a
rate of about 50 m/yr. If that tendency were to continue, it
would be a matter of a few decades for the tip to reach the
coast, -forming a lagoon on the shallow cove on the south side of
the peninsula. Much of the wildlife value of this area depends
on the attraction of seabirds and waders that forage on the
shallow cove. I+ a lagoon is eventually formed and the dynamics
and composition of fish, crustacean, and mollusc populations are
significantly altered, the community of migrant and resident
birds utilizing the area may also change.

Through the years, the existence of this area has been
threatened by development projects that would destroy or greatly
diminish its wildlife value. A large marina and tourism complex
was proposed for the area in the 1970's. Dredging of the cove
for yacht docking facilities probably would have destroyed the
hatchery characteristics and fish abundance that attract large
numbers of Brown Pelicans (FE)and other seabirds. Authorization
for this project was denied by the Commonwealth Planning Board.
Plans to build a wide mass transportation canal to and from
Bayamon that would empty into the cove were abandoned in the mid--
1980's.

These Vands, formerly owned by the Commonwealth Lands
Administration, are now owned and administered by the
Municipality of Catago. A passive recreation facility including
picnic areas, a children's part.-:, and bicycle and jogging paths
was inaugurated shortly after Our field evaluation of the area in

mid-JanUary- 1987. This facility is established on the area
connected to the mainland, with the bicycle and jogging path
extending about two thirds of the way into the peninsula. The
path ends abruptly at a drop off point, practically at sea level,
where a fence separates and restricts access to the remaining
portion, which has been set aside as a wilderness area. It is
beyond that point that bird use is concentrated. The easily
disturbed Magnificent Frigatebird as well as the Brown Pelican
(FE) utilize the taller Casuarina trees as a roost, indicating
-that the area is relatively isolated from human activities. The
pelican also roosts on red mangroves, which dominate parts of the
coast facing -the shallow cove. During Our brief visits we also
observed about four to five hundred sandpipers utilizing the
north shore, where a strip of rocks of volcanic origin have been
placed for erosion control.

The area near the tip has become enlarged by about two acres
relative to 1979, extending towards the south. This new area has
been col'onized by several pioneer plant species such as the sea
grape (Coccoloba uvifera), the vine Canavalia maritima, and
others.

Analysis of 1977 aerial photographs reveals more open, sandy
areas near the base of the tip. Also, the narrow strip joining
the boot shaped tip to the basal part of the area lacked the
young red mangrove-Thespesia association it now supports.
Whereas in 1977 there was a fairly wide sandy strip bordering
most of the peninsula, vegetation now reaches the water in many
points. The already shallow cove has become significantly
shallower, and a small vegetation covered islet of about one acre
in area has formed near the mouth of canal, near the Catano
coast.

Because of the development of the Esperanza recreation
facility, which occupies more than half the area of the
peninsula, and the concomitant increase in human presence, which
undoubtedly has reduced foraging use of the shallow cove by
waterbirds, we conclude that this area is degraded in quality and
reduced in size relative to 1979. However, it remains a primary
wildlife area.

5- Buchanan-Haystack Hills (Bayam6n) M-4

The Buchanan haystack hills, largely located within Fort
Buchanan, were included in the First Supplement to the Critical
Wildlife Areas because it harbored a Population of the Puerto
Rican boa (FE). Moreno and P6rez (1980) stated that the boa was
common in the area, and it should be considered as of primary
importance.

During the -field evaluation of this site we were informed by
Mr. Angel Pbrez, Fort Buchanan's Environmental Officer, that Boas
are reported almost weekly from the backyards of adjacent
Urbanizations. These individuals are routinely captured and
released within the haystack hills. The Urbanizations abut the
Fort Buchanan haystack hills on their northeastern side, and are
only separated from them by a chain-link fence and a perimeter
road. While there is no data available to determine whether the
same individual Boas are continuously recaptured, this
information Suggests that the boa continues to be common in the
area. Mr. Pbrez also informed LIS that the Puerto Rican giant
anole is relatively common in these haystack hills.

There is no evidence of significant changes in the area
within Fort Buchanan relative to 1980. However, portions of a
few haystack hills lying just outside the northeastern portion of
the Fort's -facilities have been mined for construction materials,
resulting in habitat loss for the boa and other wildlife. Any
developments considered for or around these hills should be
viewed in the light of the effect these may cause upon boa
abundance in the area. The Fort Buchanan haystack hills continue
to be a primary critical wildlife area.

6- Fort Buchanan Pond (Bayam6n) M-4

The Buchanan freshwater pond is located in the grounds of
Fort Buchanan. It was included in the First Supplement to the
Critical Wildlife Areas. It has an area of approximately 3.2
hectares (Molinares 1981). The primary reason for its inclusion
was that at the time this was the only locality where the Ruddy
DUCk (CT) was regularly seen. This species is a candidate for
listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act.

Although it is the property of the San Juan Cement Company,
the artificial pond is surrounded by -facilities of Fort Buchanan,
and does not appear to be particularly isolated. However, a
buffer zone of several meters has been established by Army
personnel around the pond to prevent disturbance to wildlife and
provide some isolation to the water body.

Molinares (1981) described the composition of the vegetation
Surrounding the pond and documented reproduction of Ruddy DUCt'.-.5
there in igeo-i9ei. Although only a few individuals can be seen
at any given time, it is probably @he only locality in
metropolitan San Juan where the species breeds successfully.
There are reports of freshwater turtles attacking Ruddy DUC1'..
chicks, and there was an unsuccessful attempt to remove the
turtles from the pond according to Mr. Angel P6rez, Fort
BUchanan's Environmental Officer.

There have been several attempts to develop the pond for
recreational purposes, but so far these have been unsuccessful
due to the presence of the Ruddy DUCk. During the field
evaluation of the site we observed Little Blue and Great Blue
herons, Pied-billed Grebes, and Common Moorhen. The area is
similar in conditions relative to 1979.

Even though the general impression is that Ruddy DUCi-'.
populations on the Island are in a relatively better shape than
in the late 1970's, the Buchanan pond remains one of the few
areas where breeding of the species has been recently documented.
Thus, we consider this pond as a prime critical wildlife area.

7- San Pedro Swamp (Toa Baja) M-5

The San Pedro swamp is a large fresh- and brackish- water
system that is divided in two by Road 967. Most of this area is
located within the Sabana Seca Naval Facility. In 1979 both the
northern and southern portion of the area were regarded as of
secondary importance to wildlife, primarily because both lacked
open water that would make them valuable for waterfowl.

During the field evaluation of this area we were able to
visit the northern portion on several occasions, by canoe and by
foot. We observed a minimum of twenty-one bird species, of which
only eight were land birds. Included among these 21 species were
the rare Black-crowned Night Heron, and the Magnificent
Frigatebird. We also observed individuals of the Great Blue,
Little Blue, Tri-colored and Green-backed herons, and of the
Great, Snowy and Cattle egrets. We also observed individuals of
the popular game +owl, the Common Moorhen.

Crabbing -for Blue Land Crabs is Popular in the area, and
crabbers informed us that individuals Of the rare White-crowned
Pigeon are sometimes seen in the area. Also, they informed us
that migratory ducks occur in season in small ponds and are
sought after by hunters. One of the visits coincided with the

pass of a tf-opical depression, when substantial portions of the
northern segment were flooded or at least partially covered with
water. In these temporary ponds we observed Killdeers,
Semipalmated Plovers, and Greater Yellowlegs.

In a small saltflat near the southeastern end of the
northern portion we observed breeding Black.-necked stilts. This
li_-ilt flat is near an urbanization of recent construction that
M
constitutes the only significant encroachment on the area
relative to 1979 as determined from aerial photographs. Parts of
the area are leased by the U.S. Navy for cattle grazing. The
/ast majority of this portion is owned by the U.S. Navy, although
some lands on the Southeastern end appear to be privately owned.
We were unable to conclusively determine ownership of this
segment.

We were able to spend less time in the Southern portion of
San Pedro Swamp, largely located within the Sabana Seca Naval
Facility proper. Here we observed the Semipalmated Plover, the
Greater Yellowlegs, and the Little Blue Heron, as well as a
number of terrestrial bird species. A more extensive Survey
would probably increase this list severalfold. The map of this
portion in the 1979 document was restricted to the freshwater
swamp area. We have chosen to include a portion of the well
developed Subtropical wet forest west of the Facility's
residential area because Navy personnel informed us that the
Puerto Rican boa (FE) is common in it. The Caribbean Primate
Research Center maintains a large operation in this area, and
several dozen squirrel monkeys are reported to have escaped to
the wild. As this Situation has proved problematical elsewhere
in Puerto Rico, it is imperative that corrective measures be
[email protected]:en to capture or otherwise remove escaped individuals. The
Primate Research Center has contracted personnel to trap the
monkeys (Barbara Cintr6n, Pers. Comm.).

In our opinion, with the reduction in area for wildlife in
nearby Palo Seco Peninsula and the degradation, and possibly
eventual disappearance of the Constitution Bridge MUdflats, the
importance of areas such as San Pedro Swamp becomes magnified.
Also, the filling for urbanization of the freshwater swamp across
the Bacardi dis@illery facilities at CataKo has reduced the
availability of this type of habitat -for wildlife, especially
birds.

The status of San Pedro Swamp is upgraded to primary,
principally due to the degradation or disappearance of nearby
similar areas.

3- Lakes and forests of Dorado Beach and Cerromar Beach Hotels
(Dorado) M-6

This area is located west of the town of Dorado in the
northern part of the Island. The importance of lakes in this
area in terms of wildlife use is being greatly diminished due in
part to human activities around them. Periodic Cutting of
emergent vegetation, and the use of a backhoe to remove
vegetation to the bare ground around edges of the lakes for
presumably aesthetic reasons around the golf courses negatively
affect use a+ these lakes by species such as the Caribbean Coot
(CT), and possibly by inmigrants such as the Double-crested
Cormorant. The latter is apparently an irregular visitor to the
Island, but its use of the area may be deterred by Current
practices. These species have not been observed USing the --Area
in recent years, during which DNR personnel conducting an ongoing
waterfowl Study periodically survey the area (Edward Rodriguez,
Pers. Comm. ) .

There is great pressure for development around the area
harboring one of the few remaining stands of Pterocarpus
officinalis in the Island. This lowland rain forest support-s the
Puerto Rican boa (FE), the Puerto Rican giant anole and the
uncommon White-crowned Pigeon. Although no recent censuses of
the Pigeon have been performed, the area's population appears
healthy.

The forest area together with a buffer zone was proposed -for
designation as a Natural Reserve by the DNR to the Commonwealth
Planning Board. The Board withheld approval because an
acquisition plan was lacking. At present, the owners are
negotiating a deal with the Puerto Rico Conservation Trust that
would transfer title to the latter, in exchange -for permission to
develop approximately 225 acres of nearby land. This deal Would
guarantee protection of the land where the forest is located, but
the area around it would become more encroached with
urbanization.

The construction,of a large office complex south of route
693 and of luxury type houses near Mata Redonda lake bring about
further disturbance and contribute to the degradation of the area
as a whole. Inspection of aerial photographs of the area taken
in January 1987 revealed heavy sedimentation of several lakes
near the construction site of the office complex. The area as a@
whole has be@,ome relatively degraded in comparison to its pre-
1979 status. In spite of the above, this complex remains an area
of primary wildlife Value.

9- Cibuco Swamp (Vega Bzkja) M-7

The CibUCO Swamp is located in the northern coast of the
Island, where the Cibuco River meets the ocean. This area has
changed compared to 1979. Inspection of aerial photographs taken
in January 1987 revealed that portions near the center, which in
the 1977 aerial photograph showed dense mangrove stands, now
consist of open water, dense cattails, and stands of the
freshwater fern AchrostiCUrn sp. A 1969 topographic map of the
area shows similar portions occupied by vegetation other than
mangrove. This (night indicate that local processes, natural or
man made, may promote the rapid growth of mangroves, which die
again when conditions change, making these portions very dynamic.
Field inspection revealed a sector of dead mangrove in the
western part of the area, where the intermittent -flow of a narrow
canal apparently Causes rapid vegetation changes, also. The
Aquatic Weeds Control Division of the DNR periodically clears the
CibUCo river margins from overhanging vegetation (mangrove
branches) for flood prevention purposes.

Urban encroachment is occurring in the Southwestern portion
of the fresh water swamp. Houses are built on stilts in areas
formerly Occupied by the ubiquitous cattail. Drainage of these
areas is accomplished by residents by digging narrow ditches
along the margins of each lot. This process continues and
results in reduction of the freshwater swamp area and in
degradation of the remaining system, also due to direct domestic
discharges.

The area remains poorly known in terms of wildlife use,
although we observed White--crowned Pigeons, Yellow-crowned Night
Herons, and the edible Blue Land Crab (Cardisoma quanhumi -). The
CibUCO Swamp is considered a good hunting grounds for ducks and
other waterfowl. Migrant Blue-winged Teal and the Common Snipe,
as well as native Common Moorhen are secured by hunters in the
area. However, we believe that waterfowl use may depend on the
amount of open water available.

Designation of the area as a Natural Reserve is pending
until accurate data on CibUCO's ecologic value are obtained. A
technical supplement on the area will be prepared in the near
-future. At present, the vast majority of the area is owned by
the Commonwealth's Lands Authority.

During the final field evaluation of this area we
concentrated on the portion adjacent to the CibUCo River western
margin, where a luxuriant and well developed fringing mangrove
forest is found. Here we encountered some of the oldest and
largest red mangrove trees we have ever observed. We heard
[email protected]:-nect::ed Stilts and Common Gallinules, and observed Yellow-
crowned Night Herons. Cibuco Swamp is a primary wildlife area.

10- Tortuguero Lagoon, Rica Lake, and Cabo Caribe Swamp
(Vega Baia) M-8

TortUguero Lagoon is faUnistically depaUperate, possibly
owing to its low productivity. Much of the lagoon's water comes
from subterranean Sources, and generally lacks the nutrient
enrichment characteristic of surface waters. TortUgUero Lagoon
is one of the few of its kind in Puerto Rico, possessing one of
the most beautiful aquatic landscapes of the Island. It Supports
a uniquely diverse flora, including a number of endemic species,
and many that are rare or endangered throughout their range.
Many Sources agree that this is due to the nature of the soils
characteristic to the area.

Waterfowl species are uncommon in Tortuguero Lagoon. During
field evaluation we observed that the Least Bittern and the
Green-bacieed Heron are common. A few other species such as
wintering Sora Rails are known to use the area, but have not been
observed in the last few years. The Caribbean Coot (CT) has
been reported -from the narrow passage near the center of the
lagoon, and Brown Pelicans (CE) also Occur here. The rare Puerto
Rican Subspecies of the Short-eared Owl is occasionally observed
around the forested Southern shore. The Puerto Rican boa (FE)
occurs in the haystack hills south of Tortuguero lagoon. Three
species of sea turtles, the Leatherback (FE), the Green (FE) and
the Hawksbill (FE) nest in the sandy beach north of the lagoon.

A relatively large population of Spectacled Caimans (Cayman
crocodylUS), probably resulting from pet releases or escapees,
has become established in the Tortuguero Lagoon, as well as in
Cabo Caribe Swamp and Rica Lake. The first two are connected by
channels. Efforts to erradicate the cayman have been initiated
with relative success by management personnel from the Bureau Of
Reserves, Refuges and Sanctuaries of the DNR Forest Area.
Apparently, the Cabo Caribe Swamp serves as one of the most
important breeding grounds for the caymans, which then move to
Tortuguero Lagoon (Rolando Santos, Pers. Comm.). Additional
information on fauna of the area is found in Ferrer (1979).

The Cabo Caribe Swamp is located east of Tortuguero Lagoon.
Connected by channels, they are separated by road 687. The area
is dominated by cattails, open water being found mainly along the
canals. It is considered a prime wildlife area mainly because it
supports numbers of the rare Yellow-breasted Cra@-.:e (CT), and
wintering Sora Rails are common. The Least Grebe (CT) also
occurs in the Swamp. Hunters often secure specimens of the
Common Moorhen, and migrant Blue-winged Teal and Common Snipe.
Although several houses have been built right up -to the Swamp
margins, encroachment does riot appear -to have changed
significantly between 11?77 and 1987 on the basis of aerial

photogr .aphs-. During field evaluation we observed Common
Moorhens, Yellow-crowned Night Herons, and a variety of herons.
The Cabo Caribe Swamp is similar in condition relative to 1979,
and is still a a primary wildlife area. Cabo Caribe Swamp is
presently under both private and public ownership.

Rica Lake has become highly degraded for wildlife relative
to 19-179. -During two field evaluations we observed Green-bac@::ed
herons and the Least Bittern Was ubiquitous. No threatened ducks
have been observed in this lake in recent years (Rolando Santos
personal Communication). It supports a population of the
introduced Spectacled Cayman that has been estimated at -four
times the density found at TortUguero Lagoon (Rolando Santos
personal communication).

A natural reserve including the Tortuguero Lagoon, Cabo
Caribe Swamp and Rica Lake with associated buffer zones
incorporating a small Pterocarpus officinalis stand was
designated in 1990, but acquisition of privately owned lands
within the Reserve has not been accomplished to date. This
Natural Reserve is a primary wildlife area.

11- Lake Puerto Nuevo (Yega Baia) M-8

This small lake is located north of Cabo Caribe swamp and
west of Puerto Nuevo Beach. As recently as 1979 this lake was
considered a significant area where rare waterfowl, including
the Ruddy Duck, Purple Gallinule, and,the Caribbean Coot, bred.
Other resident as well as migrant water-Fowl also used the area.
At that time, urban encroachment was proceeding rapidly, and
disturbance due to human use or presence was evident. Some open
water areas remained within the lake, a necessary habitat
component for the species mentioned above. It was considered a
primary wildlife area.

Today, urban development virtually Surrounds this small lake
and no open water areas remain. It is completely covered by
cattails, in part due to nutrient enrichment from effluents from
the surrounding development. At present this area appears
unsuitable for the species it was known to harbor. Restoration
at this point appears difficult and costly. This area is
extremely degraded and somewhat reduced due to land filling.
Unless new information suggests otherwise, Puerto Nuevo lake
should be considered of minimal importance to wildlife.

12- Tiburones Swamp (Ar-ecibo--Barceloneta) M-9

Cago Tiburones is located east of Arecibo, in the Island's
north coast. This large, mostly freshwater swamp was included in
the critical wildlife areas document of 1979 primarily because of
its potential for restoration as a waterfowl area. The vast
majority of this area is owned by the Commonwealth's Lands
Authority- Substantial portions of the area are leased for
cattle grazing and pastureland. A detailed description of the
area is found in Salles et al. (19873). It is probably the best
game waterfowl area in the north section of Puerto Rico.

Field evaluation of -this site revealed that even though
Water is actively pumped out for agricultural purposes and flood
control, swampy areas remain. Open water sectors in -the central
portion of Cago TibUrones Support a great variety of birds,
including waterfowl, herons, sandpipers and other species.
Salles et al. (1983) recorded 81 bird species in the area,
including 21 migratory species. Fifteen of these are considered
rare in Puerto Rico, according to Salles et al. (1983). The
Masked (CT) and Ruddy (CT) ducks, and Caribbean Coot (CT) were
observed in the area during that study. The rare White-crowned
Pigeon was also found there, especially on button mangrove stands
along the north and central canals. Jorge Moreno (Pers. Comm.)
and local residents have observed small flocks of the West Indian
Whistling Duck (CT). All these species, and the rare Bahama Duck
were observed in the area during aerial surveys performed by DNR
personnel in 1984--1986.

Cago TibUrones is a Popular waterfowl hunting grounds. The
area is surveyed annually during the waterfowl hunting season by
DNR personnel conducting a long term waterfowl study. Before
intensive draining diminished the area's attractiveness for
waterfowl, hunters were able to secure a number of migratory
species including Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal, Black Duck,
Lesser SCaUp, Ring-necked Duck, American Wigeon, Common Snipe and
others (Edward Rodriguez Pers. Comm.). Native Common Moorhen
were also secured with ease in the area.

At present, the TibUrones Swamp is reduced in size compared
to 1979. The ihcreased use of this area for pineapple, sugar
cane, and until very recently rice, as well as an experimental
industrial sewage sludge injection project (likely to increase
in area to approximately 700 acres in the near future), have
greatly reduced its size. Also, some sections are periodically
drained or burned to promote grass growth for cattle grazing and
to increase dove use for hunting purposes, further reducing or
degrading the freshwater habitat. The magnitude of this
reduction is unknown, but is concentrated on the northern
section. Drainage has been intensified over the last few years,

as -Areas -formerly occupied by rice -fields have been largely
converted to pineapple plantations, reducing wildlife use of the
.area.

Five hundred acres of the swamp, in an undetermined location
as of this writing will be used for an aquaculture project for
salt- and brackish-water shrimp. In addition, three thousand
acres will. be used to grow -freshwater fish (Tilapia). At this
moment, it is impossible to determine the effect these two
developments will have on the wildlife Value of the swamp, and on
efforts for restoration of portions of the swamp.
In spite of this degradation the area Could be restored with
proper management. Guidelines for the creation of a water-fowl
refuge area in the 1979 Critical Wildlife Areas document are
still largely applicable and their implementation at present
continues to be desirable, especially since the area is important
to a number of threatened species. CaWo TibUrones is primary
wildlife area.

13- La Tembladera Lagoon (Arecibo) M-9

La Tembladera lagoon is located south of road 681 near Punta
Las Tunas. This area was included in the First Supplement to the
Critical Wildlife Areas. This small lagoon is presently under
agricultural pressure. It is used as a watering place for
cattle, an activity that is destroying its bordering vegetation.
Also, a dirt road that passes about a hundred meters north of the
lagoon will be paved and expanded. Increased disturbance in the
form of vehicular traffic will affect wildlife use of this
lagoon.

The lagoon supports a small Population Of freshwater
-turtles. Waterfowl observed using the lagoon include the Pied-
billed Grebe, which breeds there, and the Common Moorhen and
Purple Gallinule. Hunting of the latter is prohibited. Among
wading birds we observed the Cattle and Common egrets. The
Caribbean Coot (CT), Ruddy (M and Masked (CT) ducks, have been
reported to Occur at Tembladera by the DNR's Natural Heritage
Program. Hunting occurs in the lagoon, as evidenced by spent
shotgun ammunition we found in the ground.

This area should be monitored with some frequency to
determine its importance to the threatened fauna reported from
the lagoon. ' Proper management, including acquisition, may be
necessary to preserve this lagoon. At present, it is of
secondary importance to wildlife.

14- (farrizales Mangrove (Hatillo) M-1o

Carrizales Mangrove is located east of the town of Hatillo
and south of Punta Maracayo near Highway 2. The principal reason
lor inclusion of this small basin mangrove system among the
Island's critical wildlife areas is that it formerly supported
breeding populations of the West Indian Whistling DUC@-'.' (CT).
UllUsual migrants, Such as the Lesser Golden Plover and the
Whimbrel, also Could be observed along its Muddy margins.

The central portion of this area, destroyed by filling in
197.':`, is now regenerating. Much of this regeneration is mangrove
growth. During the field evaluation in late April 1937 we did
not observe the West Indian Tree Duck, nor the Cattle Egret
rookery that was also mentioned in the 1979 Critical Wildlife
Areas document. We observed a variety of migratory and resident
shorebirds. A storm water sewer pipe of over seven feet in
diameter,now discharges into the western portion. This pipe is
part of the expansion of nearby highway 2. The change in water
regime and deposition of sediments transported by the sewage
system probably will bring about changes in the vegetation of the
area.

Carrizales Mangrove is Suffering encroachment from urban
development around its south-east and south-central margins.
Also, use by off-road vehicles is destroying the vegetation that
covers sand dunes separating the area from the ocean to the
north. In spite of the above mentioned regeneration, we believe
the area has become degraded compared to its 1979 status. It is
of secondary importance to wildlife.

15- Guajataca Cliffs (Isabela-Quebradillas-Camuy) M-11,13

This area is located in the northwestern coastal portion of
Puerto Rico. The primary reason for inclusion of the Guaiataca
Cliffs, both east and west, among the Island's critical wildlife
areas is the yearly nesting of the White-tailed Tropicbird. The
species nests in cavities in cliff faces no further than a few
meters away from the ocean, in both accessible and inaccessible
locations. During field evaluation of the area in late February
19e7 we were able to locate no fewer than thirteen (13) nests,
some with chicks covered with down, and a few with feathers.

A recreational area, including a paved road and several
picnic tables, was built along the sea, west of Bellaca Creel<,
after 1977. Cliffs along that shore, but especially west of the
road, are heavily used by Tropicbirds, apparently with no ill
effects from increased human disturbance. However-, because

several of-- the cavities that are traditionally utilized are
within relatively easy reach, educational signs should be posted
to minimize the possibility of harrassment to the birds and their-
nests.

In general, the area does not appear to have changed since
1979. As far as we can determine, no significant changes have
Occurred i-n its vegetation Or fauna. Other than the White-tailed
Tropicbird, an undetermined species of night heron (either the
Yellow-crowned or the Blacl-..-crowned) uses this area for breeding
and roosting purposes. That species prefers the shadier, more
vegetated higher and slopier cliffs, building sloppy nesting
plat-forms about six, to eight feet from the floor.

Although White-tailed Tropicbirds also nest to some degree
in a few other localities around the Island, notably at the El
Morro cliffs in Old San Juan, the Guaiataca Cliffs constitute a
primary wildlife area.

16- Bellaca Creek (O.Ltebradillas) M-12

Bellaca Creek, an intermittent stream, is located on the
eastern side of the town of Quebradillas in Barrio San Jos6. The
Puerto Rico Crested Toad (FT) has been reported to occur in this
area according to the DNR's Natural Heritage Program. This
portion of the Bellaca Creek is located approximately si,,., miles
to the east of Barrio Coto in Isabela, another important area for
the toad.

The Puerto Rican boa (FE) is common in the area, according
to residents. We found fecal pellets that probably belonged to
this species. We observed the Puerto Rican giant anole along the
banks of this well forested creek.
The creek bed is covered by mature mesic vegetation,
however, the area is surrounded by pasturelands, largely denuded
of mature vegetation. Also, a new residential developm@nt is
being constructed upstream of the specific portion of the creek
where the toad has been reported to Occur. We are concerned that
pluvial outflows from this dL-velopment may affect habitat quality
at the creek.

Along Bellaca Creelr., the Crested Toad has been observed
breeding in cattle drinking tanks at a dairy farm, and in small
ponds in the creek. In fact it harbored the largest remaining
population of the toad until the recent discovery of breeding
activity at Tamarindo Lagoon in the GuAnica Staie Forest.

We recbmmend that detailed Studies be performed at Barrio
San Josb to ascertain the Status of the toad in the locality.
Also, any possible effects to the toad's population in the area
must be considered before any permits are given to proposed
developments in the area. Bellac-A creek is a primary wildlife
a. r e A.

17- Barrio Coto (Isabela) M-13

This rural area in the town of Isabela on the Island's
northwestern coast was included in the 1979 document because the
Puerto Rican Crested Toad (FT) had been collected at the area in
1967. No specimens have been observed or collected in the area
since 1967.

Barrio Coto is Suffering from increased development, as many
new houses are being built. During field evaluation of the site,
we interviewed several long time residents inquiring about the
threatened Puerto Rican Crested Toad. We were invariably led to
specimens of the introduced toad Bufo marinUS. We visited the
,area a few days after Substantial rains had that occurred after a
relatively dry period. This series of events apparently promotes
the onset of a reproductive bout. Although we found a large
number of tadpoles of up to about one inch in length in a shallow
pond used for cattle drinking, these were later identified as
belonging to other species. Not far from this pond we found a
decomposing specimen of the Puerto Rican boa (FE). Residents
explained that these are not uncommon in the area.

Barrio Coto is considered a primary critical wildlife area
in spite of its continuing degradation, lack of recent sightings,
and the recent discovery of new Populations of the Puerto Rican
Crested Toad. The new populations have been discovered during
"Outbreaks" that occur at irregular intervals, and it is possible
that one may still occur at Barrio Coto.

18- Cayure (Aguada) M-14

This area was included in the Supplement to the Critical
Wildlife Areas document. The area is located within the Coloso
Sugarmill and is bounded on its north side by road 115. It is
made up of a series of oxidation ponds operated by the sugarmill
and a relatively large pond with abundant open water fringed by
cattails.

Such rare waterfowl as the Masked Duck (CT) and West Indian
Whistling Duck (CT), as well as the Purple GallinUle are
-frequently observed in the area. Eight individuals of the
Whistling Duck were observed in the area by DNR personnel during
an aerial census in mid-September, 1988 (Edward Rodriguez, Pers.
Comm.). The Ruddy DUC1.- (FT), a candidate for listing under the
Federal Endangered Species Act, has been ocassionally observed in
the area during air censuses conducted by DNR personnel in the
mid 1980's.

During field evaluation of the site we observed adults and
juveniles of the Masked Duck and were informed by locals that
these breed commonly in the area. The West Indian Whistling Duck
breeds in the area north of road 115, according to locals. We
observed a few Brown Pelicans (FE) loafing in the exposed
branches of a fallen tree partially submerged near the fringes of
the larger pond. Common Moorhen are common in the area.

The oxidation ponds are managed for weed control and their
drainage during the duck breeding season undoubtedly affects the
successful rearing of young. The Commonwealth's Land Authority
owns the lands encompassing the Cayure area.

It remains a prime wildlife area and integrated management
to minimize breeding losses may enhance its value. Since the
area is utilized by a number of waterfowl species that occur in
Puerto Rico in extremely low numbers, we recommend that hunting
be prohibited in this area.

19- Pozo Hondo (Agasco) M-15

Pozo Hondo is located west of Agasco's Municipal Cemetery.
It is surrounded by sugarcane plantations and by pastures to the
east, adjacent to residential units.

It consists of a channel with some open water bordered by
cattails. We did not observe any rare or endangered species in
the area. Nearby residents indicated that it is a popular
hunting grounds during the waterfowl hunting season. The habitat
appears ideally suited for migratory ducks and resident waterfowl
Such as Pied-billed Grebes, Common Moorhen. Birds such as the
West Indian Tree Duck (CT), Masked Duck (CT) and Ruddy Duck (CT)
Occur at Cayure in a similar habitat, a relatively short distance
to the north. It is possible that these species utilize Pozo
Hondo as part of their regional movements. However, until more
data on wildlife use are obtained the area is considered of
secondary importance to wildlife.

2 5

2N)- C-abanetas Swamp (Mayaguez) M-16

The brackish and freshwater Sabanetas Swamp, located in the
C-C-last west of Mayaguez airport, was included in the 1979 document
primarily because the West Indian Whistling Duck (CT) reportedly
occurred there. Other wildlife of significance include the
Caribbean Coot (CT), Common Moorhen and a number of other native
and migratory bird species. A detailed Study of the area's
vegetational associations and fauna can be found in Villamil et
al. (1981).

Four species of anoline lizards, including the Puerto Rico
giant anole are found in the area. The area supports fishes and
Crustaceans of commercial and recreational Value. The Sabanetas
Swamp harbors several stands of Pterocarpus officinalis, now a
rare association in the island. The mangrove system is one of
only four- located on the Island's west coast.

At present the area is owned by no less than twenty-five
private landowners. Even though the* land is scarcely adequate
for many types of development, there is great pressure in the
form of Multiple proposals for a variety of activities, ranging
from camping areas to automobile assembly plants (Villamil et al.
1981).

The Sabanetas Swamp has been proposed as a Natural Reserve
by the Departament of Natural Resources under the name CaZo
BoqUilla. This proposal has been turned down, appealed and
turned down again by the Commonwealth's Planning Board. The
principal Cause for rejection is a lack of an acquisition plan.

Twenty-nine bird species were recorded from the site by
Villamil et al. (1981). The non-terrestrial species included the
Caribbean Coot, Great Blue Heron and Great Egret, among others.
The West Indian Whistling Duck was not recorded from the area.

Renewed emphasis on Sugar cane plantations, which at present
reach right up to the mangrove, may result in a reduction of the
area., or probably will result in its degradation due to -the
burning of Sugarcane. However-, the mangrove and PterOCal-QLAS
stands remain in good condition relative to 1979, even though
these have been reached by fire on several occasions (Barbara
Cintr6n, Pers. Comm.). Based on the rareness of Pterocar-PUS
stands, especially in the western end of the Island, the
protection of this area deserves renewed attention.

The Sabanetas Swamp remains in similar conditions compared
to 1979. It is an area of secondary importance to wildlife.

21- Guanajibo Mangrove (Mayaguez) 11- 17

The Guanajibo mangrove area is located south of the town of
Mayaguez in the western coast of the Island. There is a
Pterocarpus stand in the area (Barbara Cintr6n, Pers. Comm.).
'The principal reason -for inclusion of this area in -the Critical
Wildlife Areas document of 1979 was its potential for development
as an ed.ucational area for demonstration of ecological and
conservaticin principles. In addition, the rare Yellow-breasted
Crak.e (CT) could be 'found in the freshwater swamp -that borders
the mangrove.
A few of the more common species of waterfowl, such as the
Common Moorhen and the Pied-billed Grebe still use, and probably
breed, in the area. The Brown Pelican (FE) and the West Indian
Manatee (FE) as well as the Least Grebe (CT) have been reported
from the area, according to the DNR Natural Heritage Program.

Field evaluation of this area revealed that pressures along
the margins of GUanajibo mangrove due to burning, filling, cattle
grazing, and other activities are causing a reduction in size of
this area. Away -from the borders, however, mangroves appear to
be in good condition.

Analysis of the 1977 and 1987 aerial photographs revealed
that lots formerly used -for sugarcane plantations adjacent to the
area in the east are reverting to wetland with characteristic
vegetation. This may be beneficial to the Yellow-breasted Crake
(CT) and other -freshwater bird species.

Flood control plans are contemplated by the Commonwealth's
Department of Transportation and Public Work:s and the Department
of Natural Resources. These plans would primarily benefit
residents of adjacent San Jos6 and Guanajibo Homes Urbanizations.
Several alternatives are being considered, including channeling
the GUanajibo River and Cago Corazon. If or when these plans are
realized, the areas' character and vegetation may be drastically
affected due to changes in its hydrologic regime. This in turn
Would affect wildlife use of the area.

The Guanajibo Mangrove area is similar in condition relative
to 1979. If the area's character and educational potential are
to be preserved, flood control plans should include provisions
+or maintaining some water flow into the area. Detailed study is
necessary to accomplish this objective.

The Guanajibo Mangrove is a primary wildlife area.

222- Joyuda Lagoon (Cabo Rojo) M-18

The Joyuda Lagoon, of approximately 300 acres, is located in
the coast west of the Town of Hormigueros. It was included in the
Supplement of Critical Wildlife Areas by Moreno and Pbrez (1980).
The authors felt that although the lagoon lacked edge cover
(probably meaning emergent vegetation such as cattails, etc.),
its freque*nt use by the Ruddy Duck (CT) and rare Purple GallinUle
justified its addition to the critical wildlife areas of the
Island. The lagoon is periodically biOlUMiniscent, depending on
variations in salinity (Carvaial--Zamora 1976).

Field evaluation of this lagoon, which took place in late
March, revealed no signs of the Ruddy Duck nor the Purple
Gallinule. We did observe individuals of the Laughing Gull, the
Brown Pelican (FE), the Green-backed Heron and migrant Belted
V."ingfisher. Detailed information on fauna, flora, vegetation,
physical parameters, and other aspects of the lagoon are
contained in a report by P6rez-Ramirez et al. (1981).

In recent years the mangrove that borders Joyuda Lagoon in
the west side near road 102 has been Subjected to encroachment,
principally by cutting and filling to build small urban
developments and parking .lots to accommodate the growing
clientele of local restaurants. As a result this mangrove sector
has been reduced in area. Analysis of the 1977 and 1987 aerial
photographs reveal that the condition of the remainder of the
narrow mangrove strip that borders the lagoon has not changed.

Increased agricultural use of the hills to the east,
including cattle grazing, may result in further nutrient
enrichment of the lagoon, which may serve to promote the
development of emergent Tringing vegetation, subject to salinity
and depth tolerance constraints.

The JOYUdas lagoon was designated a Natural Reserve in 1980.
The reserve includes only the water and a narrow strip
surrounding it. The area is slightly degraded relative to 1979.
It is of secondary importance to wildlife.

23- Cuevas Lagoon (Cabo Rojo) M-1?

Located in the Southwestern part of the Island near roads
107_-'@ and 311, the Cueva Lagoon is used principally for cattle
grazing. Edward Rodriguez, of the DNR's Research Area,
periodically performs aerial censuses that include this area. He
reports that the Ruddy Duck (CT) and migrant Blue-winged Teal are
relatively common in the area in winter. The Ruddy Duck is a
candidate for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act.
We did not observe these species during two field evaluations of
this area that OCCUrred about one month apart in late winter.
Near-by residents, however, reported that the area is hunted
intensively, especially near road 103. Water levels vary
greatly, and the Surrounding areas become inundated during heavy
rains.

The area had been included in the 1979 Critical Wildlife
Areas Document because it had been reported as formerly
Supporting the West Indian Whistling Duck (CT). We believe the
area currently lacks adequate habitat for this species, although
they may use it occasionally as part of their regional movements.
Small numbers of the Whistling Duck, the Ruddy (as many as 30
individuals) and the Bahama duck were observed using Cueva Lagoon
at irregular intervals during periodic aerial censuses performed
by DNR personnel in 1984-1986. We observed migrant Spotted
Sandpipers, native Killdeers, the Green-backed and Little Blue
herons, Cattle and Great egrets and Common Moorhen.
The area is of some importance to migrant and resident
threatened waterfowl. The status Of this area is upgraded to
primary.

2.4- GuaniqUilla Lagoons (Cabo Rojo) M-20

This area is located in the north-west tip of Boquer6n Day.
These small lagoons are owned by the Corporation for the
Development of the Marine, Lacustrine, and Fluvial Resources of
Purto Rico (CODREMAR) a public corporation attached to the DNR,
and are Currently administered by the Puerto Rico Conservation
Trust. This results in restricted access to the general public
and reduced disturbance to wildlife. The lagoons dry seasonally,
and during our field evaluation only the westernmost one had a
few inches of water in it. Areas Surrounding the lagoons are
used for cattle grazing and there were cattle tracks in the dry
beds of two of these lagoons.

A strip of mangroves between the southernmost lagoon and
Boquer6n Bay serves as a roost to about one hundred Brown
Pelicans (FE). We heard Clapper Rails and observed migrant

Northern Pai@'-ula Warblers in this stand. The White-winged Dove
was observed nesting on mangroves. The more Secluded westernmost
lagoon, which is surrounded by more developed vegetation has
impressive rock formations in and around it. This lagoon
supports and serves as a refuge for a variety of shore and marine
birds. These include the easily disturbed Frigate Bird, Brown
Pelicans, Black-necked Stilts, Tricolored, Little Blue and Great
Blue herons, Snowy egrets, Wilson Plover, and migrant Black-
bellied Plovers and Greater Yellowlegs, among others.
Surrounding areas support the endemic Puerto Rican Tody.

During aerial censuses of waterfowl performed during 1984-
1986 by DNR and USFWS personnel the following species were
occasionally detected at Guaniquilla: the rare Bahama and Ruddy
(CT) dLkC[-.'.S (the 1;-:ktter is a candidate for listing under the
Federal Endangered Species Act), migrant Blue-winged Teal, Common
Moorhen, Pied-Billed Grebe and an undetermined coot species.

We found spent shotgun ammunition on the ground, proof that
in spite of the protection afforded by signs and fences,
unscrupulous hunters occasionally use these areas. The area
should be patrolled regularly, especially during the waterfowl
hunting season.

Cattle should be removed from this area. The status of the
Guaniquilla lagoons is upgraded to primary, as several threatened
or endangered species use the area occasionally or
permanently.

25- Boquer6n Refuge (Cabo Rojo) M-21

Located east of Boquer6n Bay, the Boquer6n Refuge was
designed as a mitigation measure due to the draining of the
GuAnica and Anegado Lagoons and the extensive reduction. in area
of the Cartagena Lagoon as a result of the agricultural
development of the Lajas Valley plan. It may perhaps be more
appropriately called a hunting reserve as this was the primary
reason for its creation. It is owned by the Commonwealth
Department of Natural Resources.

More than a hundred and seventy bird species use the Refuge
as breeding or wintering grounds. Brown Pelicans (FE), Yellow-
shouldered Blackbirds (FE), and migrant Peregrine Falcons (FE)
use the area. There are plans to build nest boxes for the
Blackbird to encourage its nesting in the area. The Ruddy Duck
(CT), Caribbean Coot (CT) and Least Grebe (CT) breed in the area,
as does the rare Yellow-breasted Crake (CT).

There has been much progress in the management of this
refuge since the writing of the 1979 Critical Wildlife Areas
document. In terms of personnel, there are presently one refuge
manager and three assistants. This personnel is administered by
the DNR's, Bureau of Reserves, Refuges and Sanctuaries. The
Refuge is used each season by close to a thousand hunters seeking
migrant ducks and Common Moorhens. However, a large proportion,
of the use and much of the take is harvested during the first few
weeks of each season.

Boqueron Refuge is not without problems. The Boqueron area
in general is under heavy pressure for development.
Montecarlo Estates Urbanization project directly abuts the
Refuge. In fact, recently uncovered evidence on habitat use of
mixed foraging flocks of Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds (FE), Shiny
Cowbirds and Greater Antillean Grackles revealed that a
substantial amount of critical habitat (open mesquite with grassy
ground cover) of the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird was destroyed by
this urbanization (Paul McKenzie, Pers. Comm.). This habitat
typo is extremely important for the Blackbird, especially during
the rainy season of August-December, when the birds feed
extensively, on caterpillars that feed on the grasses. The Cabo
Rojo municipal garbage dump, which reached its, design capacity in
Isael, to the north of the Refuge, is still increasing in
density if not in size.

It is in the southeast corner of the refuge that one hundred
acres of cattails are concentrated. This is fully one fifth of
the Refuge's area, and is one of the manager's problems in terms
of open water availability. Also, as mangroves recolonize the
Refuge, there has been a net reduction in open water since the
dikes and pumps have been operational.

Plans for the near future call for the construction of an
observation tower and two boat docks for educational purpose and
a third one for hunter use. Blasting potholes and cattail
control measures would improve waterfowl habitat quality in the
Refuge.

The Boqueron Refuge is one of hte the best among the Island's
Primary Critical Wildlife Areas.

'26- Cabo Rojo Saltflats and Cliffs (Cabo Rojo) M-22

Located in the Southwestern tip of Puerto Rico, the Cabo
Rojo Saltflats are in all likelihood Puerto Rico's most important
site for migratory shorebirds. These also Support the Island's
only known breeding population of the Snowy Plover (CT). During
the summer of 1988 the Population of this species in this area
was estimated at less than fifty individuals (Gloria Lee-Navas,
Pers. Comm.). Migrant Piping Plovers (CT) and endemic Yellow-
shouldered Blackbirds (FE), as well as Least Terns (CT) use the
area. Three nesting colonies of the Least Tern were found in the
area in 1988: however, the largest had only about fourteen nests
(Gloria Lee Navas, Pers. Comm.). In the mid-1980's a small flock
of American Flamingoes were regularly observed in this area. The
species is presently extirpated from Puerto Rico and now Occur
only as accidental visitors.

The saltflats are under great pressure for development. At
least 1@hree projects that would probably degrade, or even
destroy, parts of the saltflats include a trailer,park, an
aquaculture industry (saltwater shrimp), and the expansion of an
existing salt-evaporation business. All three have sought (and
been so far denied) permits to operate on the area. Another
problem facing the saltflats and cliffs is the ever expanding use
of offroad vehicles. This has been kept in check by DNR by
installing stumps that L-ither block entire areas (near the
lighthouse) or restrict the vehicles to designated roads. Lands
adjacent to the area can be expected to continue under heavy
pressure for resort and residential development.

The importance of the area is internationally recognized.
The Society for the Study of Caribbean Ornithology has the
conservation of these saltflats as one of the top priorities of
its agenda. No appreciable degradation of the area has occurred
since 1979 based on the analysis of aerial photographs and field
evaluation. The Cabo Rojo Saltflats and Cliffs continue to be a
primary critical wildlife area.

X27- Cartagena Lagoon (Lajas) M-23

Cartagena Lagoon is located in the Lajas Valley floodplain
north of the Sierra Bermeja mountain range, in Puerto Rico's
southwestern coast. This area was included in the 1979 document
of critical wildlife areas primarily because of its historic
importance for wildlife. More than half Of Puerto Rico's bird
species have been recorded at one time or another from the area
and the adjacent Sierra Bermeja. Historically, this lagoon was
said to have supported perhaps more ducks than the entire Island
presently does.

7.2

"The Lagoon Suffered rapid deterioration following the
agricultural development of the Lajas Valley in the 1950's and
the conversion of the area -from a polyculture to one of almost
e-xclusive culture of sugarcane. The deterioration was partly due
to excessive nutrient enrichment from agricultural -fertilizers
and from the Lajas sewage treatment plant, and the diversion, for
irrigation purposes, of -freshwater -that would have reached the
Lagoon. . This resulted in lowered water levels. These two
-factors combined to promote -the development of a dense emergent
vegetation dominated by cattails and floating water hyacinths
that -further reduced the area occupied by Open water.

A few of the important Species supported by the Lagoon
@include the Glossy Ibis, which during recent times is observed
only some years while it is not observed at all in others. The
rare Yellow-breasted Crake (CT), Caribbean Coot (CT), and Least
Grebe (CT) Occur at Cartagena. The Ruddy Duck (CT) and the West
Indian Whistling Duck (CT), as well as the rare Bahama Duck also
have been reported from the lagoon. A variety of migratory
waterfowl of importance for hunters also occur at Cartagena.
Peregrine Falcons winter in the area. In addition, in the winter
of 1986 a hunter accidentally shot and secured a specimen of the
Spiny Jacana, a species known from the Island only from one
record dating to before 1878. The relatively rare Purple
Gallinule, as well as the abundant Common Moorhen is also found
in the lagoon.

The Cartagena Lagoon may now be more appropriately called a
swampJ as confirmed by our field evaluation of the site and
analysis of aerial photographs. It has become degraded even
beyond its badly deteriorated state described in the 1979
document. Open water areas are minimal, and the area's
importance as a hunting ground has declined even when compared to
10 to 15 years ago. It is Currently of little use to many of the
species the area was known for.

The 1979 document contains both general and specific
guidelines to accomplish restoration of Cartagena Lagoon. A more
complete assessment and specific recommendations are contai@ied in
a -technical supplement document prepared for the proposed
designation of Cartagena Lagoon as a Natural Reserve by Toro and
Chabert (1986) of the DNR's Technical Assessment Division. That
document also contains a detailed historic background of the
Lagoon's former status and presently deteriorated state. It is
unnecessary to repeat those recommendations here, but they are
-fully applicable.

Most experts concur that the two principal factors affecting
this prime wildlife locality are the pressur& for agricultural
USE, in and around the Lagoon (including cattle grazing) and the
fact that the area is owned by several private parties.

::, -T.

In a recent development, the Commonwealth Of Puerto Rico
Government will buy the land encompassing the Lagoon from the
private owners and then will lease it to the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service in a long term agreement. The latter agency
will restore and manage it as a National Wildlife Refuge. At the
time of this writing the Commonwealth's Land Administration is
-finalizing the purchase of the area.

The outloot; for Cartagena Lagoon appears bright. In this
case, unlike the case of Puerto Nuevo Lagoon in the north of the
Island, even though restoration is difficult and costly it Could
be very 'fruitful. Cartagena Lagoon is much larger and is not as
encroached upon by urbanization as Puerto Nuevo Lagoon. In spite
of its presently degraded condition Cartagena Lagoon is a primary
wildlife area.

28-- La Parguera (Lajas) M -22 4

Located in Southwestern Puerto Rico, the critical wildlife
area of La Parguera is largely made up of coastal mangrove
-forests, islets and cays. Coral reefs in the area are among the
most developed in the Island. In some areas saltflats in the
landward side of the mangroves are utilized by migratory and
resident waterbirds. La Parguera was designated a Natural
Reserve in 1979.

The area has extensive shallows dominated by Turtlegrass.
(Thalassia testudinum) that are used by the West Indian Manatee
(FE) and the Hawksbill sea turtle (FE). The largest breeding
colony of the Brown Pelican (FE) on the main Island of Puerto
Rico is -found in a mangrove islet near the eastern end of La
PargUera at Bahia Montalva. A total of 56 nests were documented
in the early 19eO's by Jaime Collazo. The area also harbors a
large part of what has been determined critical habitat for the
Yellow--shouldered Blackbird (FE). Roosts of the latter are
concentrated on mangrove islets near the western end of the area.

The 1979 document did not include a map defining the area
included in this critical wildlife area. Furthermore, no
description was included in the written portion. For the
purposes of this evaluation it is convenient to define the area
as that included in the Natural Reserve as amended in 1986. This
emcompasses the area between Punta Jorobado in the east and Punta
Pitahaya in the west.

La PargUera's tranquil waters, bioluminescent bay, and
luxuriant coral reefs attract thousands of visitors, and boating
is a Popular pastime. This has prompted the establishment of an

..4

incr6asi ng number of tourist oriented stores and restaurants. In
addition, a large number of house-boats and floating and stilt-
houses have been all but permanently set up in the shore to the
detriment of the mangrove forest, and serve as week--end or
permanent residences (Encarnaci6n and Fuentes 1988). Waste
waters of these struct.ures are largely discharged directly to the
s-a resulting in water Pollution. The structures also ma
.@L ke their
immediate.surroundings less desirable -for wildlife sensitive to
disturbance Such as herons, egrets and others. Fortunately these
1trUCtures are concentrated around the La Parguera village, And
:5
extensive areas of coastal mangrove remain for wildlife use. The
DNR is actively dealing with the problem of these structures
within the Natural Reserve.

Recreational, residential, touristic and other developmental
demands on the area are tremendous, even when compared to 1979.
The La PargUera area was included in the Special Planning Area of
the SOUth-west in Puerto Rico's Coastal Zone Management Program
to deal with these and other problems.

A Management Office has been recently established at La
PargUera that is developing programs related to education on
rules, regulations, and conservation practices in addition to its
management functions. This office will implement actions to
reach the objectives contained on a management plan prepared for
the area (Encarnaci6n and Fuentes 1988). The management plan has
been submitted to the Commonwealth's Planning Board for
approval. The Ranger Corps has established a Ranger Station and
are in charge of enforcement and surveillance.

A total Of about 60 mangrove islets and cays are found in
this Natural Reserve. The island of Magueyes harbors the
facilities of the Marine Science School of the University of
Puerto Rico and appears to be of no major significance to
wildlife. However, we observed small numbers of Yellow--
shouldered Blackbirds using mangroves a++ this island. The islet
of Mata de la Gata has been developed as a recreational area by
the DNR. Many of the islets serve as occasional roosting areas
for the Brown Pelican and other species.

A primate re@Bearch center with free ranging Rhesu5 and Patas
monkeys ceased operations in Cuevas and Guayacan Islands. Some
of these monkeys escaped, reached the coast, and became
established. Troops of these monkeys have been observed as -far-
west as the Sierra Bermeja and the Lajas Valley, where they are
Causing Some agricultural damage. The detrimental effect of
monkeys on wildlife such as birds has been reported by DNR
personnel working with the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird. We
recommend that efforts be intensified to erradicate these
monkeys.

-'DUring--the -field evaluation of the area we were not able to
visit all islets due to transportation limitations. However, all.
,appear in healthy condition. A total of 66 bird species were
documented for the area by Diaz et al. (1983). Of this total., -_79
were resident species and 27 were migrants.

We observed a minimum of 30 Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds
crossing over to mangrove islets off Punta Pitahaya. DNR
personnel conducting a Shiny Cowbird control program at BoqUer6n
regularly monitor this roost. The importance of non--mangrove
habitats for the Yellow-shOUldered Blackbird has been recognized
-for some time now. This species uses Black Olive trees (Bucida
buceras) and a variety of palm trees as well as cavities of dead
mangrove trees for nesting. More recently, the importance of
open mesquite with grassy ground cover has been found to be
important to the species, especially during the rainy season of
AUgust-December, when they feed on caterpillars found in the
grass (Paul McKenzie, Pers. Comm.). Any actions potentially
affecting these habitat types must be reviewed in light of this
information.

We observed three West Indian Manatees east of the-Playa
Rosada Beach recreational area. No estimates of the population
of this species in the area are available, but from results of
aerial censuses performed in 1984-1985 by Rathbun et al. (1985)
we estimate a total of 15-20 individuals in the area west to the
Cabo Rojo lighthouse.

Several fishermen perceive an increase in sea turtle numbers
in the area, but there is no data base to assess if this is
true.

We recommend that regular censuses be performed by personnel
of the La Parguera Management Office to document trends in
numbers of the endangered species that are found in this Natural
Reserve.

Perhaps the, most important change in the status of this
critical wildlife area relative to 1979 is the wholesale
deforestation of the limestone hills that bound the Natural
Reserve to the north. A large portion of these privately owned
hills has been divided into lots, so that further encroachment is
to be expected in the near -future. One can only speculate on the
magnitude of the effect that superficial runoff and erosion might
have on the Turtlegrass meadows during heavy rains occuring while
these residehtial developments are being built, or before the
vegetation has had a chance to recover.

..56

In suf6fnary, there has been substantial progress in terms of
administration and protection of the wildlife resources of the
area since 1979. However, the area has become somewhat degraded
when compared to 1979, primarily due to the ever increasing
encroachment in the area surrounding La Parguera Natural Reserve.
It is a primary critical wildlife area.

29- GUAnica State Forest-West (GuAnica) M-25

This area is separated from the rest of the Forest by
Guanica Bay. Improvements have been accomplished in terms of
emphazised management by a DNR Management Officer. Increased
pressures will probably result from the establishment, in
progress, of recreational facilities in Manglillo Beach. On the
other hand, proponents for the development of the recreational
areas argue that this action will result in a more organized and
controlied use of the locality. In turn, this should result in
reduced disturbance to wildlife that use -the GuAnica Forest's
western portion.

Beaches in this area have been used for nesting by the Green
sea turtle (FE). The West Indian Manatee (FE) has been observed
in the area, as reported by residents and during aerial censuses
performed by DNR personnel in 1978 and Rathbun et al. (1985).
The area may possibly Support a number of Yellow-shOUldered
Blackbird (FE), since these have been observed in the eastern
portion of the Forest, across GuAnica Bay. Birds observed there
with all likelihood come from populations to the west of the
Forest. Migrant ducks are frequently observed in the adjacent
Providencia and La Jungla salt flats, just outside the Forest's
western boundary.

Encroachment in this area is presently very low. However,
several projects including Marinas and hotel complexes have been
proposed around the area (Miguel Canals., Pers. Comm.). We
conclude that this area is in similar condition relative to 1979.
Caution should be exercised so that the area's +ALAna is not
adversely affected by the development of coastal areas in the
zone.

The status of GuAnica State Forest-West is upgraded to
primary because it provides habitat to two (probably three) of
the Island's endangered species.

30- GuAnica- Lagoon (GUAnica) M-26

This area is located in the Lajas Valley, north of the town
of GUAnica. GUAnica Lagoon was one of the Island's prime
waterbird habitats until it was drained for agricultural purposes
in the late 195o's. It was included in the 1979 Critical
Wildlife Areas document essentially because of the ease with
which portions of it Could be restored to become a major
waterbird area. The 1979 document included general guidelines to
accomplish that goal. To date, no action in this direction has
been made. Restoration to wetland may be the best available
management option, because agricultural productivity Of lagoon
soils has failed to meet projections, even by conservative
estimates.

Field evaluation of the site revealed that large and medium
sized wading birds such as the Great Egret and the Tricolored
Heron forage in remnant fresh water swamps in the area,
especially along route 331. However, as in 1979 the area is not
of importance to wildlife in its present condition.

Restoration of portions of the lagoon is still possible and
advisable. With plans to restore Cartagena Lagoon underway, and
together with the BoqUer6n Wildlife Refuge, another area such as
a restored GuAnica Lagoon Would complete a network between which
birds could move in southwestern Puerto Rico. Hunting is
permitted in the BoqUer6n Refuge, and GuAnica Lagoon Could
provide an alternative -for birds that move out of the former
during the hunting season.

Current theory in the field of conservation biology
(Simberloff and Abele 19e2) suggests that a network of refuges is
the most desirable option in the absence of large Unveloped
tracts for wildlife, and this is especially applicable in the
case of +ar-ranging species Such as waterfowl and wading birds.
Also, urban development in the vicinity of the lagoon is
negligible. This set of conditions provides a unique opportunity
that, along with restoration of parts of CaFo Tiburones in the
north coast Would be a significant improvement over p@esent
conditions. Possibly, with the added available habitat several
species that are now rare or threatened could be removed from
Such classification.

The area is relatively degraded compared to 1979. GuAnica
Lagoon is of secondary importance to wildlife, based on its
potential for restoration.

3 a

::.I- OuAnica-State Forest East and Adjacent Lands (GuAnica) M-27

This area was included in 1979 primarily because it
Supported the most important population of the Puerto Rican
Nightiar (FE), and because two speci.mens of the Puerto Rico
Crested Toad (FT) had been collected in the Forest. Although the
Tamarindo lagoon was considered separately in Moreno and P6rez's
1980 suppl.ement, we discuss it within the context of this area,
where it is located.

The eastern portion of GuAnica State Forest has long been
known to support a high bird species diversity. Nine out of
fourteen species of endemic birds occur in the Forest. Other
species include the rare k*ey West DUail Dove. In addition,
several individuals of the Yellow-shOUldered Blackbird (FE) are
being regularly observed within the Forest's confines, according
to the Forest's Management Officer, Mr. Miguel Canals. Other
wildlife of importance includes the Brown Pelican (FE), of which
there is a breeding colony not far away in Bahia Montalva.

Individuals of the Peregrine Falcon (FE) winter fairly
regularly around Tamarindo Lagoon. The Least Tern (CT) has been
observed along the coast. Migrant Ospreys can sometimes be
observed in the area year round, and although these are sometimes
seen carrying nesting material, breeding has not been confirmed.
The rare Bahama Duck and several migratory duck species such as
the Blue-winged Teal are regularly observed in San Jacinto
Saltflats.

The West Indian Manatee (FE) is occasionally observed around
the Ballena area. In addition, the Forest is known to Support
one of the Island's largest bat aggregation in Cueva de los
MUrcielagos. The Hawksbill sea turtle (FE) nests regularly in
Tamarindo and Ballena beaches, near road 333. The narrowly
distributed Puerto Rican Dryland anole (CT) occurs in areas near
the coast. The atypically distributed Whistling Coqui also
occurs in the Forest.

In 1982 the Gu6nica State Forest was designated a Biosphere
Reserve by UNESCO in recognition of its value as one of the best
preserved dry forests in the world. The Forest has attracted the
attention of international scientists. For example, a long term
bird banding Study by Faaborg and Terborgh (1980) and their
colleagues has established that several migratory bird species
(principally Passerines) return to the same locations in
different years. The Forest is also Currently the subject of a
long term vegetation study, focusing on the dynamics of
succession.

Other ttudies, including the biology of the Puerto Rican
Nightjar by Mr. Francisco Vilella, a doctoral Student from
Louisiana State University, are currently underway. Preliminary
results Of the Nightiar Study suggest that the Population of this
species in the Forest is relatively stable when compared with
earlier estimates of its abundance. Mr. Vilella believes that a
dearth of adequate nesting substrate may be one of the principal
limiting factors preventing further increase in density of the
species in GuAnica Forest. One of the main concerns regarding
the continued survival of this species in 1979 was that a
sprawling petrochemical industry in GUayanilla Could reduce
insect -Abundance in the Forest, causing a food shortage that
would in turn affect the nightjars. Several of the
petrochemicals closed down, providing some respite for the
species. However, several of these industrial complexes have
been reestablished as part of the program for economic
revitalization of Puerto Rico's south-West.

The GUAnica Forest is now known to support the largest
remaining breeding population of the Puerto Rico Crested Toad
(FT). At least three areas are used for breeding by this species
in the Forest. Two of these are near road 7.33 along the margins
of GUAnica Bay. The other known area lies near the base of the
Barinas hills, which was drained for mosquito control; and
although toads still have laid eggs, these have not survived to
adulthood (Miguel Canals, Pers. Comm.). At present, the two
former areas suffer from fire, which has already affected an
estimated 30 acre area along _road 333 (Miguel Canals, Pers.
Comm.). There has been some debate about whether fires result
from natural Causes or of human activities. We are inclined
toward the latter alternative, since fires have almost
ex.clusively occurred along the road.

During storms, sea water may flow into the Tamarindo Lagoon
toad breeding area, resulting in increased salinity that may kill
eggs and tadpoles of the species. This is the resul-t of the
reduced height of sand dune along Tamarindo Beach (Miguel Canals,
Pers. Comm.). A direct restoration of the sand dunes, or
management to promote sand entrapment on these, may be necessary
to Counter the negative effect of salt water upon the toad's
population.

Administratively, there has been considerable improvement in
the Forest. Formerly only one person was in charge of
administrating this relatively large Forest. Now there are seven
people, including a Forest Manager. In addition, the western
portion of the Forest, across Guanica Bay now has its own
Manager. In the eastern part of the Forest roads and trails have
been considerably improved and signs have been posted,
facilitating patrolling of the area and allowing a safer use by
visitors.

-1 Althou-gh encroachment around the Forest is presently low,
the Forest is under high pressure that might result in habitat
.degradation. A controversial project to build a large hotel in
the Ballena Bay area is Under review by the Commonwealth's
Planning Board. A road has been proposed to provide easier
access to the beach for YaUCo residents that, if realized, would
-further fragment the Forest. It would also probably augment the
-fire hazard due to increased human presence. A number of other
developments, such as several Marinas have been proposed for the
area. Most of these projects are centered around the Southern
coastal portion of the Forest. The construction of these
projected developments may adversely affect the GUAnica Forest
eastern portion and its Unique wildlife.

The GU.Anica State Forest eastern unit and adjacent lands are
a primary wildlife area.

32'- San Jacinto Salt Flats (GUAnica) M-27

The San Jacinto Salt Flats are located south of road 333,
east of Guanfca Bay and adjacent to Hotel Copamarina in GUAnica.
These abandoned salinas were included in the 1?80 Supplement to
the Critical Wildlife Areas by Moreno and P6rez because they
Support a number of migratory and resident shorebirds. These
authors recommended that the salt flats be incorporated to the
GuAnica State Forest, across the road, to ensure their
preservation. The area has been colonized by mangroves that
provide some isolation from the small community located on Punta
Jacinto. Due to the low rainfall in southwestern Puerto Rico, a
considerable portion of this shallow area dries up seasonally.

During field evaluation of this site we observed Black-
necked Stilts, Yellowlegs, and a number of plovers and
sandpipers, as well as a few heron species. The area is known to
Support the uncommon Bahama DUC@:-, Common Moorhen, American Coot
and large numbers of migrant Blue-winged Teal (Jaime Collazo,
Pers. Comm.). The Roseate Tern (FT), and the Sandwich and Royal
terns have also been observed in this area by Jaime Collazo of
the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who has also observed Brown
Pelicans (FE).

A road was formerly located on the western fringe of the
salt flats to provide access to the adjacent expanding community.
Moreno and P6rez's (198o) recommendation was not followed. In
fact, the road has been recently relocated and now divides the
salt flats in two (Susan Silander, Pers. Comm). In addition a
Small unpaved parking lot has been built at the western end of
the area, resulting in further habitat degradation. This will

probably make the area less attractive to wildlife. Efforts must
be made to prevent additional damage to this area.

We concur with Moreno and P6rez's recommendation for the
acquisition of the San Jacinto Salt Flats and its incorporation
to the GUAnica State Forest. A title Survey is needed to
determine if the saltflats are Crown lands, in which case their
title shOU.ld revert to the state. They are a primary wildlife
area.

33- LLUveras (GUayanilla) M-218

This area includes a combination of mangrove forests, Salt
-flats and -freshwater swamps. The area abuts the GuAnica State
Forest near the Punta Ventana sector. The primary reason for
inclusion of LLUVeras among the critical wildlife areas of the
1979 dodument was that it supported a variety of wading birds and
shorebirds, both resident and migrant: Brown Pelicans (FE) occur
in the adjacent beach, where Hawksbill sea turtles (FE) are also
@%nown to nest. A number of Puerto Rican Nightiar (FE) also occur-
in -the area. The West Indian Manatee (FE) has been reported from
waters off Punta Verraco according to DNR's Natural Heritage
Program.

A considerable portion of the swamps west of Cerro Toro have
been drained for cattle grazing. Portions of the mangrove forest
West Of Punta Verraco is dying off due to the construction of a
road whose levee interrupts the natural flow of water. The road
is in TEXACO property and crosses the mangrove stand adjacent to
the abandoned sugarcane fields. Apparently because the mangrove
stand now only receives rain water, the change in water regime is
Causing mangrove death. The mangrove stand is used as a dumping
ground for old tires of sugar cane machinery, Causing both
ecological and aesthetical degradation. The remainder of the
area appears to similar in condition relative to 1979, based on
the analysis of the 1977 and 1987 aerial photographs.

The addition of LlLkvera5 to GuAnica State Forest, through
purchase or other mechanisms, would simplify its protection.
This recommendation is also contained in the technical document
-for the management of the Special Planning Area of the South-
West, GuAnica sector (Toro and Col6n 1986).

Additional development of the Punta Verraco sector Would
probably contribute to the further degradation of the area. At
the time of our field evaluation in late June 1987, active
clearing of the dry-+orest scrub vegetation along formerly
abandoned trails was in progress in the Punta Verraco Hills.

-'At present the area is under private ownership. More than
ten percent of the area has been degraded relative to 1979. Its
status is upgraded to primary, given its importance to at least
+Our endangered species, and +or migrant species that depend on
wetlands.

34- CabUl l6n Mangrove (Ponce) M-129

This area lies east of the large Ponce docking facilities,
and is not far from the metropolitan area of Ponce. Areas
adjacent to that delimited in the 1979 Critical Wildlife Areas
document are presently under great pressure for development-of
recreational and tourism facilities. Several of the more
accessible salt flats are being used as clandestine garbage dumps
and scrap metal deposits (especially old cars and appliances).
In spite of this, some increase on the area Occupied by mangroves
has Occurred since 1979 as revealed by the analysis of aerial
photographs.

During field evaluation of this area in late November 1?87
we observed 14 aquatic species out of a total of 29. This
included the Tricolored and Little Blue herons, Snowy and Great
egrets, Common Moorhen, and Clapper Rails. We also observed the
Brown Pelican (FE), as well as migrant Ospreys and Pigeon Haw@::s.

'This area merits increased protection. it should be
developed as an educational facility where students learn about
mangrove biology and the phenomenon of bird migration. Wading
birds and shorebirds as well as land birds, both migrant and
resident can be easily observed taking advantage of the canals
that run through the area.

Since the only endangered or rare species known from the
area at present is the Brown Pelican, Cabull6n Mangrove retains
its classification as a wildlife area of secondary importance
until more detailed Studies are conducted. However, it will take
on increased importance as the southern coast of Puert@3 Rico
becomes more developed.

-3.5- Caja de Muertos and Morrillito Islands (Ponce) M-310

Located south of Ponce, the principal change on the status
of these two islands has been in terms of increased presence of
permanently stationed DNR management personnel. The Ranger Corps
also maintains personnel at Caja de Muertos." The islands are
administered by the DNR Bureau of Reserves, Refuges and

'Sanctuaries-. A detailed description of the biology and other
aspects of these islands is found in Villamil et al. (1980).

Federally-listed Endangered sea turtles continue to nest in
small numbers in the southern, high energy beach of Caja de
Muertos. Twenty-four bird species were recorded for the Island
by Villamil et al. (1980). Included among these were the Brown
Pelican (FE) and the Roseate Tern (FT). During field evaluation
we observed that the White-tailed Tropicbird also continues to
breed in the Island's cliffs. However, recent landslides Caused
by erosion in the Island's south side have eliminated at least
one known Tropicbird nesting hole. A few others may have been
lost as well. We also observed Brown Boobies, Yellow-crowned
Night Herons, and Great Blue Herons. The latter apparently -fly
in from nearby Ponce and fish in the shallow and relatively
tranquil waters of the north coast. The introduced Green Iguana
and the secretive AgOUti are thriving in Caja de Muertos. The
latter is often observed by DNR personnel near the picnic
facilities west of the mangrove forest in the early morning.

The two Islands, together with Berberia Cay, were designated
a Natural Reserve in 1980. The three comprise an area of
ximately 500 acres. Caja de MUertos has been developed as a
Rpprox
recreational facility as part of the "Ponce en Marcha"
development program. During weekends, hundreds of people take a
Ports Authority ferry to the Island and enjoy the protected
northern beach and guided nature tours. Tropicbird and sea
turtle nesting areas are off limits to visitors in season. These
islands are an example of how recreation, education and wildlife
conservation can be achieved simultaneously. They continue to be
primary wildlife areas.

36- Frios Cays (Ponce) M-30

This publicly owned islet of approximately 9 acres is
located near the mouth of Inab6n River east of Ponce. Cayo Frio
is mainly composed by mangrove. A few small mangrove stands are
separated from the main islet by exposed substrate composed of
dead coral. Other colonizing plant species occur in the islet,
principally on elevated portions along its northern coast. C-)
coral reef along its Southern shore provides some protection from
wave action. However, severe wave action has apparently produced
erosion causing the toppling or death of several mangrove trees.
During field evaluation in early August 1988 we observed
Brown Pelicans (FE) perched high on mangrove trees in the islet's
Southern coast. Other bird species observed include the Great
Blue Heron, Little Blue Heron, Great Egret and the Sandwich Tern.

We did-not -find the Cattle Egret breeding colony referred to
in 1979. We were not able to search part of the interior of the
cay, but no breeding activity was evident in the area.. Possibly,
breeding for the year had been completed at the time of Our
visit. Alternatively, the birds may have abandoned Frios Cay as
a breeding site. The islet should be monitored with more
frequency to determine wildlife use with certainty.

Frios Cay is of secondary importance to wildlife.

'@.7- Berberia Cay (Santa Isabel) M-30

The mangrove islet of Berberia, about 70 acres in area, is
located in Puerto Rico's southern coast between Caja de Muertos
Island and Santa Isabel. During field evaluation we found that
it was riot as difficult to traverse as suggested in the 1979
document. We observed Brown Pelicans (FE) foraging near
Berberia. Other wildlife observed includes Great Egrets, Little
Blue and Great Blue herons and Sandwich and Royal terns. We also
found the remains of what probably was a large specimen of the
Green sea turtle (FE) that was slaughtered in the islet.

A detailed account of the islet's fauna and quantitative and
-floristic descriptions of the flora are contained in a technical
Supplement for the designation of the Caja De MUertos Natural
Reserve (Villamil et al. igeo), of which Berberia is part. A
-total of nine marine and wading bird species, including the
Roseate "Tern (FT) and the Brown Pelican (FE), were reported +or
Berberia in 1980. The only terrestrial bird species reported was
the Yellow Warbler.

The 1979 document tentatively concluded that Berberfa should
be considered an area of secondary importance to wildlife,
particularly due to its failure to Support Substantial numbers of
doves and pigeons. We did not observe pigeons or doves during
Our brief stay in the island. However, seabirds sometimes move
their nesting colonies due to disturbance or other reasons, and
Berberfa may serve as an alternate site for species as important
as the Brown Peli'can.

The importance of remote islands such as Berberia should riot
be minimized only because at present they do not support breeding
Populations of endangered species. In Our opinion it is a
primary wildlife area, even if based on its potential alone.

IS- Punta Petrona Mangrove (Santa Isabel) M-31

Located SOUth-east of the town of Santa Isabel, the publicly
owned Punta Petrona mangrove was included in the 1979 Critical
Wildlife Areas document primarily because it was Ex fairly
extensive and undisturbed area whose physical characteristics
appeared to be excellent for a diverse fauna that included the
Brown Pel.ican (FE). This general area has traditionally
supported a significant proportion of the Island's Population of
West Indian Manatees (FE). Punta Petrona, of approximately 57C-)
acres, and several nearby cays were designated a Natural Reserve
in 1979. It is part of the Aguirre State Forest.

Punta Petrona is largely composed of mangrove forest
interspersed with ponds, meandering channels and various cays.
It is Surrounded by relatively tranquil and shallow waters
dominated by Thal;assia beds.

During the field evaluation in mid-August 1988 we observed a
fair number of Brown Pelicans foraging and roosting on mangrove
trees. We also observed the West Indian Nighthawk and several
ardeid species, including the Green-bacl-.-.ed and Great Blue h5rons,
the Yellow-crowned Night Heron and Cattle Egrets. The Common
Moorhen and the uncommon Bahama Duck were regularly observed in
the area during aerial censuses of waterfowl performed by DNR and
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service personnel in the mid 1980's.
Migrant BlUe-winged Teal and Ospreys were also observed during
these censuses.

Puerto Rico, including Vieques Island, was divided in eleven
segments -for the purposes of twelve aerial censuses for Manatees
and sea turtles performed in 1984-1985 by Rathbun et al. (1985).
The segment including Punta Petrona ranked first for Manatees and
tenth for sea turtles.

Punta Petrona is slightly encroached on its northwestern end
by the Playa de Santa Isabel community. Physically, the area
remains similar in condition relative to 1979 based on the
analysis of aerial photographs.

We recommend that thorough surveys be conducted on the
fauna, to assess wildlife use in Punta Petrona more precisely.
It is a primary wildlife area.

39- taracol-Lhs Cay (Santa Isabel M__31

Caracoles Cay is located south of Punta Petrona. Publicly
owned, it is made up of several mangrove islets separated by
narrow channels totalling approximately six and a half acres in
area. The popularity of these islets -for week-end boaters has
grown immensely over the past few years. People using this area
evidently-spend Much of their time in the water of a pool--like
channel that separates two of the islets. Caracoles continues to
support a large heron breeding colony in the mangrove stands
surrounding that channel. A few pigeon and dove nests were
dispersed among the heronry. We counted over one thousand heron
and egret nests in a red mangrove stand during field evaluation
of this area in early August 1988. However, only a few Yellow-
crowned Night Heron nests were active at the time, containing two
-to -three downy nestlings. The great abundance of egg shells that
lined the ground indicated that many of these nests had been
active in the recent past.
I

We also observed a previously unreported roost of about 100
of the easily disturbed Magnificent Frigatebird, including adults
and juveniles capable of flight. A few adults were displaying
with their gular sacs, but we could not find any nesting
structures in the roost with the aid of binoculars. The presence
of these birds, sensitive to disturbance, at Caracoles is an
indication of its remoteness and value for wildlife. We
recommend that signs be set up to prevent disturbance to the
Frigatebirds and Herons. The islets should be monitored with
some regularity to assess the status of these populations.

Other wildlife observed at Caracoles during the field
evaluation included the Brown Pelican (FE). The Green-backed and
Great Blue herons, as well as the American Oystercatcher were
also found at the islets.

The area probably merits the attention of managers so that
its recreational use does not disturb wildlife.

Caracoles appears to be similar in condition relative to
1979, as determined from aerial photograph analysis. it
continues to be a primary wildlife area.

4C.)- Punta Arenas (Salinas) M-3121

Punta Arenas is located SOUth-east of Playa de Salinas in
the town of Salinas. The Playa de Salinas community directly
abuts the area. It is mainly composed of a relatively large
shallow lagoon system and small mangrove islets. Field
evaluation of the site and analysis of the 1979 aerial
photograph.s revealed some regeneration of vegetation on the area.
New mangrove growth was observed on areas formerly utilized for
garbage dumping. The mangrove islets have also increased in
area.

Shore and Waterbirds forage on these MLtd+lats. We observed
sandpipers, plovers, Blac@:--necked Stilts, as well as Tricolored
Herons, Yellow-crowned Night Herons and Cattle Egrets during
field evaluation of this area. We also observed the Brown
Pelican (FE) loafing on mangrove trees that border the sea. The
Bahama Duck and migrant Blue-winged Teal have been recorded in
fairly large numbers at nearby Las Mareas, to the east, during
aerial censuses performed by DNR personnel in 1984.

Human activities affect this area. Large and medium scale
garbage dumping formerly degraded quality of its waters and
habitat. Also, water flow between the lagoons is controlled,
probably by residents, for purposes that may be related to farm
animal use, flood and mosquito control, or other reasons. The
unjudicious movement of water may have an adverse effect on
wildlife in the area. We recommend that a detailed Study be
performed to prescribe management actions that promote the
protection of wildlife and that is integrated with the needs of
residents of this area.

Punta Arenas continues to be a primary wildlife area.

41- Mar Negro (Salinas) M _33

Mar Negro is located at the western end of Jobos bali, west
of the Aguirre powerplant. It is included in -the Estuarine
Reserve of Jobos Bay (Jobanes). This mangrove forest serves as a
refuge for shorebirds and marine and terrestrial birds, including
those listed for Punta Pozuelo. Portions of Mar Negro have been
affected by thermal discharges and small oilspills from the
Aguirre power plant and other types of discharges from the
Aguirre Sugarmill. A technical supplement for the management
plan for the Jobos Bay Area (Berrios et al. 19el) provides data
on these problems and on many other aspects of the Mar Negro
area. Details on the structure of the mangrove vegetation in
-this area are -found in Cintr6n et al. (1978).

A - si gri if i cant change on t h eStatus of this area is the
continued establishment of summer and some permanent houses on
its western end. This results in increased boat traffic along
the channels with the resultant disturbance to birds and possibly
to West Indian Manatees (FE). There hAs been a reduction in
numbers of the latter in the general area (Rathbun et al. 19e5).
There are Lkncom+irmed reports of human take of Manatees for food
in the area (Barbara Cintr6n, Pers. Comm.). We observed Brown
Pelicans (FE) foraging. A roost of about 20 individuals was
observed in red mangrove trees in the east-central portion of Mar
Negro.

Coral reefs and the root systems of mangroves have Suffered
some impact due to industrial discharges that have occurred in
the area (Berrios et al. 1981). On the positive side, there has
been a substantial recovery in an extensive area of mangrove
forest that had died off around the late 1970's near the
ox,idation ponds of the Aguirre Sugarmill.

The area is only slightly degraded relative to 1979, but a
continuation of this trend must be prevented if Mar Negro is to
remain as a primary wildlife area. This may be accomplished by
increased vigilance and especially, by a closer coordination and
communication with other regulatory authorities, such as the
Permits and Regulations Administration. The posting of signs
alerting boaters to the presence of Manatees is desirable also.

Probably of greater importance to the continued wellbeing of
Mar Negro is the prevention of impacts that may be caused by
industrial and electric power producing facilities of the area.
In the past, misguided actions and or accidents have Caused
considerable damage to the natural systems* in the area.

The area is of economic and cultural importance to fishermen
that harvest oysters, clams, crabs and fishes in the estuary and
the root system of mangroves.

Mar Negro, like Punta Pozuelo, also benefits from the
improved protection that results from increased patrolling and
management by personnel of the Estuarine Reserve of Jobos Bay.
However, additional steps should be taken to deter the possible
taking of Manatees in the area.

Mar Negro continues to be a primary wildlife area.

42- Punta Pozuelo (Guayama) M-33

At present this area is included in the Estuarine Reserve of
Jobos Bay (Jobanes). There has been an increase in urbanization
at the base of Punta POZUelo, near the emergency landing strip.
Road and other infrastructure improvements have been made in the
area, so that it has become sligthly degraded relative to 1979.

Punta POZUelo borders part of the southern portion of Jobos
Bay, which is one of the prime areas Supporting breeding
populations of -the West Indian Manatee. Individuals Of the
Leatherback- (FE) and Green (FE) sea turtles have been observed by
DNR personnel at several of the sandy beaches of Punta POZUelo,
and in PAjaros and Ratones cays, but no egglaying has been
recorded. Brown Pelicans (FE) and migrant Peregrine Falcons (FE)
are supported by the area. Puerto Rican Plain Pigeons (FE) are
reported -from the area with some frequency. The rare White-
crowned Pigeon Utilizes the Barca and Caribe cays, as well as
part of -the mainland area for breeding and roosting. Hunting
for Blue-winged -real is popular during winter.

The area benefits from improved protection as there is a
headquarters of the DNR Ranger Corps in the nearby community of
Jobos. Also, there is now a resident manager and several
maintenance personnel permanently in the area.

We found that Little Blue herons, and Snowy and Great egrets
are nesting along with the Cattle Egrets reported in 1979 for the
Cayos Caribe. We also observed Great Blue Herons, and nesting
Black:-neck.ed Stilts. In addition, we observed at least nine land
bird species, especially on islets with soil substrate. There
has been an as yet unexplained reduction in the number of
Federally Endangered West Indian Manatees inhabiting the area
(Rathbun et al. 1985). Investigators suggest it may be due to
increased industrialization in the area. This suggests that a
detailed monitoring of the local Manatee Population is needed.
Given appropriate funding, this could be accomplished by
adequately trained personnel of the Jobanes Estuarine Reserve.

Punta Pozuelo remains a primary critical wildlife area.

43- PandUra Mountain Range (YabL(Coa-MaUnabo) M-34

The Pandura mountain range is located within the Pandura--
Guardarraya Special Planning Area designated in the Puerto Rico
Coastal Zone Management Program (U. S. Dept. of Comm., O.C.Z. M.,
1978). The SPA Study for this area has not been conducted to
date.

-'This scenic mountain range rises -from the coast near Punta
Toro and steep inclines dominate the landscape. The area is
.privately owned, and it is sparsely populated. It was included
in 1979 because it supports a small frog species, the GUaj6n
Eleutherodactylus cooki that occurs almost exclusively in this
area. The species thrives among the dark, humid spaces that
exist between large boulders (10 to 20 feet in diameter) of
volcanic origin known as Guajonales. Field evaluation revealed a
healthy Population that in some cases tolerates moderate
urbanization. We heard individuals not more than a few meters
away from the road.

Evaluation of aerial photographs revealed only a slight
urban encroachment during the last ten years, probably owing in
part to the ruggedness and steepness of the terrain. There has
been some increase in agricultural activity in this area during
the last ten years, resulting in the replacement of mature forest
by crops. This activity at present does not seem significant and
in Our opinion the area should retain its classification as an
area of secondary importance to wildlife.

44- Humacao Swamp (Humacao) M-35

The Humacao Swamp was designated a Natural Reserve in 1986.
The area harbors the largest remaining stand of Pterocarpus
o++icinalis in Puerto Rico. At the time of the write-Up for the
area in 1979 it was being actively drained with a canal system
and pumps. The drained area was used mainly for Sugarcane. In
late 1979, when David and Frederic[:: hurricanes caused torrential
rains on the Island, the pump system malfunctioned and the area
became permanently inundated, as pumping was not resumed.
However, parts of the area were swampy even before pumping
stopped.

The 1979 map for the area basically included only the
Pter-ClCarPUS forest and an adjacent strip composed of open water
and mixed wetland vegetation on both the northern and Southern
sides, abutting the Anton RUfz River in the former and Boca
Prieta canal in the latter. The entire area then comprised
approximately B19 acres. At present the Humacao Swamp Natural
Reserve totals approximately 2535 acres. The Reserve now
contains within its limits five lagoons; Mandri I, II, and III,
and Santa Teresa I and II. These, formed after the above
mentioned huericanes, were added to the Reserve because they now
-form one of the Island's premier waterfowl habitats.

Parts -of Santa Teresa Lagoons formerly harbored coconut
stands. These are now permanently inundated and have developed a
dense emergent vegetation dominated by cattails. This particular
portion is one of the principal breeding areas of the rare Bahama
Duck and the West Indian Whistling Duck (CT), which nest on grass
clumps that surround and cover the Palm Stumps that still dot the
area. Ruddy Ducks (CT) nest on floating grass mats in this area.
This is one of the more productive sites of a long term waterfowl
Study by the DNR. (Edward Rodriguez, Pers. Comm.).

Ninety four migrant and resident bird species have been
documented from -the site. The Brown Pelican (FE) forages and
roosts on the lagoons and nearby vegetation, respectively. The
Peregrine Falcon (FE) also uses the area in winter. Virtually
all rare or threatened native dLtCi.'.S occur within the Reserve;
the West Indian Whistling Duck (CT), the Ruddy (CT) (also a
candidate for listing under the Federal Endangered Species Act),
the Bahama (CT), and the Masked (CT) ducks breed and forage among
the lag6ons. The Blac@-----bellied Whistling Duck, an accidental
species in Puerto Rico, also has been observed in the area. The
Least Grebe (CT) and Caribbean Coot (CT) breed there. The rare
Purple Gallinule, the Pied-billed Grebe and the popular game
species, the Common Moorhen also Occur in the area. Pigeons and
doves are well represented and include the rare White-crowned
Pigeon, the Scaly-naped Pigeon and the Zenaida Dave among
others.

Among reptiles, the Antillean Painted Turtle, the only
-freshwater turtle native to Puerto Rico, is a common sight in the
lagoons and especially in the interconnecting channels. Sea
turtles that nest in the beach west of Morrillo include the
Hawksbill (FE) and the Leatherbac@:: (FE) sea turtles. The West
Indian Manatee (FE) is occasionally observed near the coast.

The Humacao Swamp Natural reserve has a small office center,
a resident manager, and several maintenance and research
personnel. There is an active research project on the
reproductive biology of waterfowl. Also, there is a small
hatchery for sea turtle eggs.

The reserve incorporates parcels under both private and
public ownership. Public lands are under long term lease to the
DNR. Most of the PterocarPUS forest is under private ownership.

The area is greatly improved relative to 1979. Means for
acquisition or long term lease of portions under private
ownership 5hOUl d be developed to ensure the future of this
primary wildlife area.

45- Roosevelt Roads Naval Base (Ceiba) M-36

The Roosevelt Roads Naval Base is located in the Island's
eastern coast, south-east of the town of Ceiba. Extensive
mangrove stands interspersed with saltflats, shallow ponds and
-forested hills provide excellent habitat for a variety of
wildlife. These areas are of great importance for a large number
of resident and migratory bird species. In addition, the area's
many bays and coves provide some of the best habitat for the West
Indian Manatee (FE). Furthermore, several Federally-listed
Endangered sea turtle species occur in the area (Rathbun et al.
1985). Nesting of sea turtles is not common probably due to lack
of suitable habitat.

Among bird species, the West Indian Whistling Duck (FE) and
Least Grebe (FE), as well as the rare Bahama Duck are -found in
the area. A number of migrant waterfowl winter among the area@s
ponds. The Blue-winged Teal is especially common. The Brown
Pelican (FE) and Yellow-shouldered Blackbird (FE) also occur in
-the area.

During field evaluation we observed several flocks of the
Bahama Duck at ponds on both sides of the road east of the
airport. We also observed the rare White-crowned Pigeon. Other
species include the Black-necked Stilt, Common Moorhen, several
herons and doves. At the Cape Hart sewage treatment plant we
observed seven adult Manatees near the effluent pipe. Rathbun et
al. (19e5) should be consulted -for detailed information on the
distribution and abundance of Manatees and sea turtles along the
coast in this area.

At the large intermittent shallow lagoon north-east of the
Cold Storage Plant facility there has been extensive regeneration
of white and black mangrove, resulting in a net reduction of open
water and saltflat area. A number of species nest among 'the
roots of these young trees and of dead mangrove stumps. We
observed several species of sandpipers, plovers, Black-nec@::ed
Stilts and a number of land bird species.

Yellow-5houldered Blackbirds nest in this area. However,
numbers of this species have been greatly reduced by Glossy
Cowbird nest parasitism. In 1975 Post and Wiley (1977) found at
least 18 nests of this species. During the 1987 breeding season,
less than five nests could be -found, and over three consecutive
seasons Population estimates are of less than thirty individuals
(Susan Silander, Pers. Comm.), this in spite of attempts to
control the cowbird population in the area.

The area is in similar conditions relative to 1979.
Culverts have been placed under the road dividing ponds in the
airport area, permitting improved water flow between them. No
recent aerial photographs were available for this area, and we
were not able to make a precise evaluation of degradation and
encroachment. However, during field evaluation the area did riot
appear to be appreciably degraded or encroached.

The Roosevelt Roads Naval Base continues to be a primary
wildlife area.

46- Fajardo Coastline (Fajardo) M----r7

This coastal segment was included in the 1979 document
because of its importance to the West Indian Manatee (FE). More
recent information confirms its importance and in addition
reveals that it is utilized heavily by endangered sea turtles
(Rathbun et al. 1985). Several recommendations were made in 1979
for the conservation of the area and for an educational campaign,
including posting signs and fishermen education. To our
knowledge, none of these recommendations were Put in effect. As
a result, Rathbun et al. report several anecdotal instances of
Manatee poaching in the Fajardo River area. At least a few were
probably intentional trappings, according to the authors.

Recommendations of the 1979 document regarding strict limits
on shoreline development in the area have not been heeded. A
large marina complex of about 600 boat capacity, along with
shopping malls, restaurants, hotels and apartment buildings is
being constructed on DemajagUa Bay under t-he name Puerto del Rey.
Another marina will be constructed shortly north of Puerto Chico
Marina. An additional large scale project by the name of Marina
Real, proposed for the Fajardo River mouth, would involve
dredging and Cutting of mangrove forests. Increased boat traffic
due to these developments Will undoubtedly augment the chance of
Manatee-boat collisions, a problem that is at present virtually
non --e,., i stent in Puerto Rico. Also, water quality (due to
increased contaminant levels, turbidity, etc.) will be degraded.

Unfortunately, the pressure for shoreline development in
this and other portions of the Island continues, so that further
degradation is likely. The Fajardo coastline is degraded
relative to 1979, but it continues to be one of the Island's
primary critical wildlife areas. Now more than ever it will be
necessary to post signs, limit boat speeds and to conduct an
educational campaign among fishermen of the area.

The Fajardo Coastline is a primary wildlife area.

47-- raSardo-Cordillera (Fajardo) M-319

The Fajardo Cordillera is located east of Cabezas de San
Juan in Fajardo. It is composed of a large number of rocky
islets and a few larger islands. Two of the larger islands, Cavo
Lobo and Palominos, are privately owned. The balance is publiciY
owned. Icacos Island, one of the most freqUented by visitors has
a number of shallow lagoons that dry intermittently. A few of
the larger islands have sandy beaches, and Palominitos is
completely made up of sand. Information on the biology of the
area's reef fauna and birdlife is contained in Mc@::'enzie and
Benton (10172).

The Fajardo Cordillera was designated a Natural Reserve in
1980. The main reason for the inclusion of this area in 1979 was
that it Supports a number of seabird breeding colonies. Roseate
Terns (FT), as well as Brown Noddies, Bridled and Sooty terns,
Brown Boobies and Laughing Gulls breed in the area. Breeding
activity of these species is concentrated around Blanquilla Cay.
The rare Bahama Duck has been reported from the small lagoons at
Icacos. The species probably uses these lagoons as part of -their
regional movements.

The Green (FE) and Hawksbill (FE) sea turtles are known to
nest at Palominos Island (Benito Pinto, Pers. Comm.). The latter
species also nests at Icacos Island. The Virgin Island's Tree
boa (FE), a subspecies of the Mona boa, Occurs in Diablo Cay.
The COlUbrid ground snake Alsophis portoricensis is found in
Ratones Cay (Peter Tolson, Pers. Comm.). Introduced Green
Iguanas occur at Icacos.

During field evaluation we observed that the area is similar
in conditions relative to 1979. Seabird use of BlanqUillc-A and
Surrounding rocks remains extensive. At Icacos we observed Brown
Pelicans (FE), Blac@::-necked Stilts, Greater Yellowlegs,
Semipalmated Plovers, and Laughing Gulls. We also found a large
number of spent shotgun shells on the ground around one of the
larger lagoons. Hunting is illegal at the Cordillera, and the
possibility that Bahama Ducks are being harvested should be
investigated. Hunting of this species is closed in Puerto Rico.
The lagoons may be used by migrant ducks as well. Introduced
Green Iguanas are abundant on Icacos. There is also a fairly
large population of -feral cats, and rats are abundant.

A detailed study of the feeding habits of iguanas at Icacos
is probably desirable to determine if they are affecting this
I51and's flora or fauna. An effort to remove cats and rats from
Icacos should be initiated. Habitat of this Island resembles
that of Cayo Diablo, and introduction of the Virgin Island's Tree
boa is being contemplated for the near future (Peter Tolson,

Pers Comm-.- The boa i s abundant at Cayo Diablo, in all
probably due to the absence of rats (Peter Tolson, Pers. Comm.).

The Fajardo Cordillera is administered by the D.N.R. Bureau
of Reserves, Refuges and Sanctuaries. A manager regularly
patrols the area by boat, and a number of management measures
primarily directed to organizing visitor use are contemplated for
the near future. The area should be patrolled by the DNR Ranger
Corps with more frequency to deter illegal hunting in the Natural
Reserve.

The Fajardo Cordillera is a primary wildlife area.

49-- Grande Lagoon and Adjacent Lands (Fajardo) M_3T9

Grande Lagoon is located in northeastern Puerto Rico, west
of the town of Fajardo. Lands encompassed by Grande Lagoon and
Surrounding lands, totalling approximately 500 acres were
designated as the Cabezas de San Juan Natural Reserve in 1986.
These lands are owned by the Corporation for the Development of
the Marine, Lacustrine, and Fluvial Resources of Puerto Rico
(CODREMAR), a public corporation attached to the DNR, and are
administered by the Puerto Rico Conservation Trust. Lands
Surrounding the lagoon support avian forms from the Lesser
Antilles that do not occur farther east in Puerto Rico, Such as
the Blue-throated Carib, the Antillean Crested Hummingbird and
the Caribbean Elaenia.

A few of the bird species commonly found in Grande Lagoon
include the Brown Pelican (FE) and the Magnificent Frigatebird.
The Green-backed, Tricolored, and Little-blue herons are also
common in the area. Gamebirds include the Common Moorhen, and
probably the White-crowned Pigeon. Hunting of the pigeon is:,
closed in Puerto Rico due to low numbers.

Reptiles are represented by eight species of which +Our-
belong to the Genus Anolis. The introduced Green Iguana is
common in the small lagoons west of the lighthouse. The
Hawksbill sea turtle (FE) has been reported to nest at Cabezas de
San Juan beach according to records of the DNR's Natural Heritage
Program.

Grande Lagoon is one of the more transparent lagoons on the
Island. Its ,connection to the sea by a channel results in what
is basically a marine system, permitting the establishment of a
wide variety of planktonic and benthic organisms, especially
those associated to Thalassia beds (Rivera-Ortiz et al. 1981).

Gr ande-Lagoon is a secondary wildlife area because of its
Lesser Antilles faunal element, and because it supports at least
one endangered species, the Brown Pelican. If it is determined
that the area is important for nesting endangered sea turtles its
status should be changed to primary. A relatively intensive
monitory of the area will be necessary to ascertain its
importance in this respect.

49- Aguas Prietas Lagoon (Fajardo) M_39

The Aguas Prietas lagoon, located in northeastern Puerto
Rico possesses one of the most beautiful landscapes to be found
in the Island and its scenic value cannot be overstated. The
area is owned by the Puerto Rico Industrial Development
Corporation.

At' least four heron species were found nesting in the
mangrove forest that surrounds Aguas Prietas Lagoon by Rivera-
Ortiz et al. (1981). This mangrove also serves as a refuge for
the rare White-crowned Pigeon and the Brown Pelican (FE).
Hunting of the former is closed in Puerto Rico due to low
numbers. Thirty-two bird species were reported by Molihares
(1981), about twenty-six percent of Puerto Rico's resident birds
were represented in the area. A detailed description of the area
can be found in Rivera-Ortiz et al. (1981).

Aguas Prietas Lagoon is fairly well protected from human
disturbance. It is adjacent to El Convento Beach where one of
the Commonwealth Governor's summer houses is located. However,
the eastern portion of the area is adjacent to a fairly large
camping ground administered by the Commonwealth's Recreation
Company. These grounds represent the most obvious example of
encroachment to the area. This situation exemplifies a common
occurrence throughout Puerto Rico's critical wildlife areas;
often there is no buffer zone between them and surrounding
developments.

The area has become slightly degraded compared to 1979,
principally due to the development of the above mentioned camping
area. It continues to be secondary importance to wildlife.

50- Ensenad-a Comez6n (Rio Grande) M-40

Located east of the Espiritu Santo River mouth, the Ensenada
Comez6n-Punta Pic6a mangrove complex is one of the Island's most
imperiled areas due to severe development pressure. That
pressure was evident before 1979. The Playas del YUnqUe and Rio
Mar residential resorts abut the area to the east, and -the Coco
Beach Urbanization lies to the west. Rio Mar and Coco Beach are
still expanding.

The area lies within the Espiritu Santo Natural Reserve,
over 5(--)0(:) acres in size. This Natural Reserve was designated in
1.985 and is the first one that is made up entirely of private
lands. The area is divided in lots of about 25 acres, and new
houses sprout up overnight, especially in its eastern portion.
The area is patrolled continuously by the DNR Ranger Corps, and
this has in our opinion greatly reduced the establishment o+ new,
non-complying structures.

The area continues to Support the rare White-crowned Pigeon.
We observed a number of heron species, including the Little Blue
and Great Blue herons, Snowy and Cattle egrets, and the Yellow-
crowned Night Heron. We did not find the West Indian Whistling
DUCk, which has been reported from the locality in the past. A
more intensive study of the area may help determine if the
species still occurs in the area. Local residents maintain that
Blue--winged Teal winter in some of the area's ponds. Common
Moorhen breed in the area, and we found several empty shotgun
shells near several of the ponds.

At present, encroachment is concentrated along the
northeastern portion of Punta PicCta and near the Mouth of
Espiritu Santo River. Even though the area is degraded relative
to 1979, Ensenada Comez6n is still a primary wildlife area.

51- CiL@naga Baia (Rio Grande) M-41

The Ci6naga Baia freshwater swamp, west of and adjacent to
the Berwind Golf Course, was included in the 1979 document as an
area of secondary importance. There was scant information about
wildlife use at that time, although it was known that migratory
waterfowl wintered in the swamp and it was of some importance to
hunters. Most of the area belongs to the Commonwealth's Lands
Authority.

Not Much more is known about the area today. It is used by
crabbers that collect the Blue Land Crab (Cardisoma quanhumi) -for
their livelihood. Hunters still use the area, harvesting Common
Moorhens and Common Snipes at the Migi-Mii@i sector.

Field evaluation revealed that it is drier than in 1979.
There is also fairly widespread cutting of the vegetation,
presumably for Pasture improvement as the area is used
extensively for cattle grazing. Also, we observed that there is
a fairly extensive and apparently methodical Cutting of mangrove
-trees. These are commonly used around the area for fence posts.
This activity results in aesthetic and ecological degradation of
the mangrove stands. It affects its value as a refuge for
wildlife and may result in a decrease in crab density, ultimately
affecting the crabbers that use the area.

Until more thorough SUrvey5 are conducted, Ci6naga Baj,::(
swamp should retain its classification as an area of secondary
importance. We conclude that the site is fairly degraded
compared to 1979. The area should be monitored more intensively,
especially during the waterfowl hunting season -to better
determine its actual use by wildlife.

52- Culebra's Surrounding Islets (Culebra) M-42,43,44

All islets and cays surrounding Culebra Island, except
privately owned Cayo Norte, are administered by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service as part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.
A total of 702 acres is encompassed by these islets. A resident
manager regularly patrols the cays, and research by graduate
Students and other groups is encouraged. In addition, the DNR
Ranger Corps patrol the cays and Culebra's coast, especially
during weekends when boat traffic increases, to minimize
disturbance to the cay's wildlife and ecology.

During the field evaluation in mid-August 1988 we observed
the tail end of the Sooty Tern breeding season. Even then,
several thousand of these birds remained, especially at Cayo
Yerba. Other species nesting there and at a few other cays
include the Bridled Tern and the Brown Noddy. There is a
Laughing Gull breeding colony at Cayo Matojo. This islet is very
close to the Culebra's north coast and separates two of Culebra's
principal sea turtle nesting areas.

Hawksbill (FE) and Green (FE) sea turtles nest in the larger
islets of Luis Pega, Cayo Norte and Culebrita. The Shiny-bac@--:
Sk.ink (CT) occurs at Luis PeKa, Cayo Norte and CUlebrita Island,
according to records of the DNR's Natural Heritage Program. We
observed the rare Bahama DUCk at Culebrita Island's lagoon, and
Brown Pelicans (FE) were a -fairly common sight throughout the
area.

Unli[---.e@-those critical wildlife areas in Culebra, the cays
and islets Surrounding the island are almost exempt from
development pressures since they were designated part of the
Culebra National Refuge in 1975.

The status Of CU,lebra's Surrounding islets is essentially
unchanged relative to 1979 and they remain one of Puerto Rico's
prime wild-life resources.

5:3-- Flamenco Peninsula (Culebra) M-42

The Flamenco Peninsula is located in the northwestern tip of
Culebra Island. Approximately 164 acres are administered by the
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a part of the Culebra National
Wildlife Refuge. The remainder of the peninsula is administered
by the DNR. The [email protected] [email protected]@-.-. (CT) Occur--; in the
southeastern basal portion of the Peninsula according to records
of the DNR Natural Heritage Program. The most important part of
this peninsula is located near its tip, in the sector known as
Punta Molinos, where a tern nesting colony is located during the
Summer months. Several tern species nest there, but the largest
number by far is that of the Sooty Tern. Numbers of nesting
sooties have been relatively stable since regular data gathering
began in 1984 (Jaime Collazo, Per5. Comm.). Human access to the
tern breeding area has been restricted by placing two padlocked
gates; one near the Flamenco Public Beach and another about
midway to the nesting colony. Increased patrolling of the area
by personnel of the Culebra Conservation and Development
Administration (CCDA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
during the nesting season has probably resulted in reduced
poaching.

Reduced cattle grazing of the Punta Molinos sector during
the last few years has promoted the development of thick- pasture
and shrubby vegetation that apparently discourages tern nesting,
causing a reduction in tern use of the area. In our opinion
vegetation of the area has become increasingly thick during
recent years. Controlled experiments may be necessary to
determine whether management of the vegetation (bUrning, Cutting,
allowing cattle grazing outside the breeding season, etc.) is
desirable to maintain optimal conditions for the continued return
of terns.

The field evaluation of this site took place during the tail
end of the 1938 Sooty Tern breeding season. Several thousand
terns, including Sooty, Bridled and to a lesser degree Noddy
terns were observed hovering over the Peninsula. A number of
flightless juveniles were seen SCUrryi rig about the t h i c

6C.)

vegetation -that has devel oped beyond the Peninsula's cattle
excluding fence.

The area remains one of primary wildlife value.

54- Flamenco Lagoon (Culebra) M-42

Flamenco lagoon is located in the northwestern portion of
Culebra Island, near the base of Flamenco Peninsula. This
shallow lagoon was included in the 1979 document principally
because it supported the largest remaining population of the
uncommon Bahama DUCk. This fairly large lagoon, surrounded by
mangrove and other woody vegetation, depends entirely on
rainfall. It may dry up completely during seasons of severe
drought, but usually has enough water to sustain a diversity of
waterfowl. Other wildlife using the area include the Ruddy Duck.
(CT), Common Moorhen, migrant Blue-winged Teal and other ducks,
Black.-necked Stilts, and a variety of herons and migrant
shorebirds such as plovers and sandpipers.

During field evaluation of this site in late October 1987 we
observed the Bahama and Ruddy ducks, and a -pair of the Least
Grebe (CT). Ruddy TUrnstones and Spotted Sandpipers were also
seen foraging along the lagoon's margins. No hunting is allowed
in Culebra, and this is no doubt partly responsible for the
extensive use by water-fowl of this area.

The development of recreational facilities at nearby
Flamenco Beach and the concomitant increase of human presence on
its access road, which borders the lagoon, may adversely affect
wildlife use of the area. At the present time, however, this is
not apparent. Other developments that might have a negative
impact an the area include the increase in size of a near-by
garbage dump and the construction of several additional houses in
the strip of land between the lagoon and Flamenco bay. Flamenco
lagoon is arguably the best area for waterfowl in Culebra.
Additional development in its surroundings would probably
decrease its value in this respect.

Although there has been an increase in human presence due to
the above mentioned expanded recreational development of nearby
Flamenco beach and increase in number of housing units, the
Status of Flamenco Lagoon is similar to that of 1979. Flamenco
.i
Lagoon remains one of Puerto Rico's prime wildlife resources.

55- Corneli-Lis Lagoon (Culebra) M-42

This small, shallow lagoon is located on Culebra's western
coast at a relatively short distance from Dewey, that Island's
largest community. Like most of Culebra's lagoons, Cornelius
dries Lip at times.

The l,agoon is checked for waterfowl use on an irregular
basis (due to access restrictions) by DNR personnel conducting a
'Long term study of ducks and other game waterfowl. These
researchers have observed as many as 60 individuals of -the rare
Bahama Duck in -the lagoon, but the number is usually much smaller
(Edward Rodriguez, Pers. Comm.). Although the 1979 document
suggested that this lagoon was very important to the breeding of
the Bahama Duck, later investigations have failed to con-firm
this. Only in a very few occasions have very young individuals
of the species been observed at the lagoon. However, locals
maintain 'that these ducks often breed in nearby cays (Luis Pe?1a
Cay is only several hundred meters :away) and then move to the
lagoon to spend the duckling period of their life cycle.

The Ruddy Duck (CT), a candidate to the Federal Endangered
Species List, is found occasionally at Cornelius Lagoon in small
numbers. This is probably due to the lagoon's shallow depth.
Another diving duck, the Masked Duck (CT) has also been reported
on the lagoon, according to records of the DNR's Natural Heritage
Program. Common Moorhen and Coots also utilize the area.
Whether the latter are Caribbean or American coots has not been
determined with certainty. Black-nec@%ed Stilts also use the
area.

At least two houses have been built in the near vicinity of
the lagoon. The owners of one of the houses built a barbwire
fence around what they claim is their property, including
Cornelius Lagoon. Nevertheless, the area is classified as Public
in a Planning Board Map (1987). Also, powerlines have been
installed a few hundred meters away from the lagoon's northern
shore in lands whose zoning classification allows for certain
-forms of housing development. This, together with the
controversy over ownership of the lagoon drives us to conclude
that the area is somewhat degraded relative to 1979, and that
there is a real threat for further degradation.

Cornelius Lagoon is a primary wildlife area.

56- @esaca Mountain (Culebra) M-43

Resaca Mountain is located in the north-central portion of
Culebra Island. It is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service as a part of the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge. it
harbors one of the few relatively undisturbed remaining tracts of
dry subtropical -forest in that Island.

Resaca Mountain includes the habitat type (moist and dry
-forest) thought to be critical for the Culebra Giant Anole. This
arboreal species has not been observed during the last several
decades. A year long Study by DNR personnel aimed at finding
individuals Of the species and which focused heavily on this site
failed to reveal any (Ojeda-[::*essler 1986). The study recommended
-that -the species be considered extinct on Culebra. It also
recommended that further searches be conducted in Vieques, St.
John and Tortola in view of recently uncovered evidence of
specimens collected in those locations during the 1800's.

The 1979 document suggested that small populations of the
Bridled Quail Dove and the P.R. Screech Owl may survive in the
area. Neither species were detected during the year long study,
nor during field evaluation over two consecutive days. However,
much of the habitat type of this area is becoming increasingly
rare in Culebra, which supports the only k:nown Population of the
endangered endemic plant Peperomia wheeleri (EF) a bushy herb.

In our opinion Resaca Mountain is of secondary importance to
wildlife.

57- Resaca Beach (Culebra) M-43.

Resaca Beach, slightly over a k-Alometer in length, is
located in Culebra Island's northwestern portion, east of the
Flamenco Public Beach. This high energy beach is separated from
the latter by steep cliffs and exposed rocks that prevent easy
access. Reaching Resaca Beach by land and sea is difficult,
resulting in little disturbance by humans. It was included in
the 1?7? document because of its importance for the nesting of
several species of Sea turtles. It is most often utilized by the
Leatherback (FE) and Hawksbill (FE) sea turtles. In 1985 Resaca
Beach was second only to Brava Beach in the number of Leatherback
nests (Hall and Tucker 1985). Resaca Beach is owned by the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. There is a cooperative agreement
between the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Puerto Rico
Department of Natural Resources for the management and
conservation of Culebra's sea turtle nesting bepches.

In 1979, nest poaching and cattle were ;a severe problem in
the area. Poaching continued to be a problem until 1984, when
nest protection began (Hall and Tucker 1985). Some poaching
still occurs, but levels are minimal compared to before 1979,
largely the result Of all night patrolling during the nesting
season. In recent years the DNR built a fence parallel to the
beach to exclude cattle from the turtle nesting area. These
management. measures have resulted in an increasing number of
hatchlings reaching the ocean. Management has been combined with
an ongoing research effort, principally by the U. S. Fish and
Wildlife Service, to document nesting levels, hatching Success
and other aspects of Sea turtle biology.

Natural events may have a negative impact on the habitat
quality of Resaca Beach. Rough seas in late 1987 and early 1988
resulted in significant erosion of the beach and may have made it
less attractive to turtles (Theresa Tallevast, Pers. Comm.).
Also, researchers are concerned that feral dogs, which are
sometimes seen at Resaca Beach, may learn to dig out nests (Hall
and Tucker 1985). We concur with the recommendation that dogs
should be removed from the area before they become a problem.

Resaca Beach continues to be a primary wildlife area. It is
greatly improved relative to 1979.

58- Brava Beach (Culebra) M-4-3

Brava Beach is located east of Resaca Beach, in Culebra
Island's northwestern portion. It is about one kilometer long.
This high energy beach is separated from Resaca Beach by Cayo
Matojo. This area is of relatively difficult access, resulting
in reduced disturbance by humans. It was included in the 1979
document because of its importance for the nesting of several
species of sea turtles. The Leatherbac@---. (FE) and [email protected] (FE)
sea turtles are known to nest in this area. In 1985 it had the
largest number of Leatherback nests (Hall and Tucker 1985) in
Culebra. Brava Beach is owned by the Commonwealth of Puerto
Rico. There is a cooperative agreement between the U. S. Fish
and Wildlife Service and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural
Resources for the management and conservation Of Culebra's sea
turtle nesting beaches.

A fence was built by the DNR to exclUde cattle -from the
turtle nesting area. Poaching of nests continued to be a problem
until 1984, when nest protection began (Hall and Tucker 1995).
Some poaching still occurs, but levels are minimal compared to
before 1979, largely the rest-t1t of all night patrols during the
nesting season. These management measures have resulted in an

increasing number of hatchlings reaching the ocean. Management
has been combined with an ongoing research effort, principally by
the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to document nesting levels,
hatching success and other aspects of sea turtle biology.

Brava Beach, like Resaca Beach, was affected by rough seas
in late 1987 and early 1989. This resulted in erosion levels
that may. have made it less Attractive to turtles (Theresa
Tallevast, Pers. Comm.). However, seasonal erosion and
redeposition of sand are characteristic of high energy beaches
(Gilberto Cintr6n, Pers. Comm.).

Brava Beach continues to be -a primary wildlife area. It is
greatly improved relative to 1979.

59- Larga Beach and Zoni Lagoon (Culebra) M-43

This area is located in the northern coast of Culebra
Island. It is composed of a shallow lagoon Surrounded by
mangrove and a relatively long and narrow stripe of sandy beach.
An area on the Southeastern portion of the lagoon is used
intensively by cattle. Unlike other more readily accesible areas
of Culebra, the Status Of the Zoni sector of Larga Beach has
remained unchanged relative to 1979. The lagoon is publicly
owned, but the Surrounding hills are private.

Endangered sea turtles nest in the Zoni sector of Playa
Larga. During -the 19es sea turtle nesting season at least 19
nests have been recorded +or this beach, a Substantial increase
over previous years (Theresa Tallevast, Pers. Comm.). Severe
erosion at Resaca and Brava beaches during the winter of 1987
apparently made them less attractive to sea turtles, and
apparently some sea turtles nested at Zoni Beach instead. In
late October 1987 we observed one sea turtle about 10(-_) meters
o++shore during the early morning, but We +OUnd no turtle tracks
on the beach.

Zonf is probably only second in Popularity to Flamenco
Beach. Cattle and off-road vehicles are prevented from damaging
sea turtle nests by a barbwire fence built by DNR. At the time
of the field evaluation the fence was broken. In addition to
repairing the fence, it may be necessary to restrict human use of
this beach during the sea turtle breeding season.

Shrubby vegetation has developed in the sloping
formerly dominated by grasses around parts of Zoni lagoon.
Possibly reduced cattle grazing has promoted the development of
the shrubby vegetation. This area has supported breeding of the

Bahama Duck in the past. Ongoing waterfowl research by DNR
personnel failed to find nesting Bahama DUCk.5 in the area during
the last two years (Edward Rodriguez, Pers. Comm.). In mid--
August 1988 we found several broods of- the Bahama Duck (about 3 C)
chicks total) walking on the lagoon's almost dry bed. Bahama
Ducks are known to nest in the shrubby pastures on the hills
surrounding the lagoon to the south-east. Coots, Pied-billed
Grebes, Common Moorhens, and the Ruddy Duck (CT) are regularly
observed at Zoni Lagoon by the DNR waterfowl research team
(Edward Rodriguez, Pers. Comm.).

During the mid-August visit to the lagoon, about twenty
percent of the area was covered with water of a depth of one inch
or less. We found at least 13 carcasses of what appeared to be
mature sized Bahama Ducks spread around the perimeter of the
lagoon, probably the result of some unknown disease since CIUCks-
usually move elsewhere when harsh conditions arise.

The hills to the SOL(th-east :of the lagoon are privately
owned and new unpaved roads have been built. Some of the land
has been divided into small lots. The area is under threat of
development, as the zoning classification (RO-25, RO--1) allows
-for the construction of housing, albeit with certain
restrictions. The area is one of the few known sites supporting
reproduction of Bahama ducks in Puerto Rico and increased human
disturbance would probably decrease its value in -this respect.
It may be necessary to designate the area surrounding Zoni Lagoon
with a more restrictive classification. Otherwise, its Value -for
threatened or endangered native aVifaUna and for migratory
waterfowl may decrease or be lost in the near future.

In Our opinion Larga Beach should be protected from
development, given its importance to the nesting of endangered
sea turtles. The Zonf sector of Larga Beach and Zonf Lagoon are
primary wildlife areas.

60- Puerto del Manglar (Culebra) M-44

Puerto del Manglar is located in the southeastern portion of
Culebra Island, south-west of CUlebrita. Of approximately 58
acres in area, it is one of Culebra's mainland -four units of -the
Culebra National Wildlife Refuge administered by the U. S. Fish
and Wildlifq Service. It was included in the 1979 document
principally because the rare White-crowned Pigeon Occurs in the
are,--A. The area's bioluminiscence was cited as another reason for
its inclusion. Brown Pelicans (FE) roost in the area.

Details on the structure of the mangrove vegetation in this

area are found in Cintr6n et al. (1978). During f ield evaluation
we observed Brown Pelicans in the area's small bay. Other bird
species such as the Magnificent Frigatebird and the Sooty Tern
were observed in the area, also.

The area is similar in conditions relative to 1979, but at
present there are pressures to develop nearby property.
Privately, owned tracts on the hilly sector Surrounding the
mangrove area have been divided into relatively small lots and a
few houses have been constructed on these. It is not known
whether present development levels may have an adverse effect on
the biOlUMiniscence of the area through increased sediment
loading caused by erosion and runoff. Sedimentation patterns and
intensities, as well as other aspects that may be detrimental to
the area's ecology should be considered before additional
development is permitted around the area.

The area is of primary importance to wildlife.

61- Cementerio Bay (Culebra) M-44

Cementerio Bay is located on the northeastern portion of
Ensenada Honda bay, on Culebra Island's southern coast. The area
is composed for the most of medium-sized red mangroves bordering
a Cul-de-sac near the San Ildefonso facilities of the Corporation
-for the Development and Conservation of Culebra, assigned to the
DNR. The area has escaped the encroachment that has reSUlted
from squatters in other parts of Culebra Island. Details on the
structure Of the mangrove vegetation in this area are found in
Cintr6n et al. (1979).

We did not observe the rare White-crowned Pigeon in the area
during field evaluation in mid-August 1988. However, DNR Rangers
reported to us that these could easily be observed in the area
and in adjacent San Ildefonso up to about mid-June. This roughly
coincides with the known nesting season of the species at Dorado
in mainland Puerto Rico (Wiley and Wiley 1979). Although the
evidence is circumstantial, the possibility that White-crowned
Pigeons are breeding in the area cannot be discounted. Its
importance for reproduction of the declining populations of the
White-crowned Pigeon remains to be determined, therefore it is
considered as of secondary importance to wildlife.

622- Los Cai@'bs (Culebra) M-44

This mangrove forest is located in the coast east of the
town of Culebra. Approximately 71 acres in area, it is composed
of mangrove stands, islets, and interconnecting channels. It was
included in the 1979 document because the rare White-crowned
Pigeon and Bahama D U C OCUrred in the area. Los Cagos is
important. for migrant and resident shorebirds. it is
administered by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a part of
the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge.

We observed the Bahama DUCk during -field evaluation in mid--
August 1988 on a shallow pond. Blac@-.:-nec@::ed Stilts, Greater
Yellowlegs and Green-backed herons were observed also at this
time.

Los Cal@os is regularly patrolled by U. S. Fish and Wildlife
Service personnel. The area appears similar in conditions as in
1979. Wildlife use Of the area is still poorly known, it retains
classification as a primary wildlife area until more data is
obtained on wildlife use.

63- East Point of Vieques (Vieques) M-45

The east Point of Vieques, defined in the 1979 Critical
Wildlife Areas document as including Cerro Matias, lies within
the bombing range of the Camp Garcia Marine Base. It was
included in the document because of the possibility that a nearly
extinct subspecies of the Puerto Rican Screech Owl, Newton's Owl,
may survive around Cerro Matias. Other wildlife of importance
includes the White-tailed Tropicbird and two unusual geckos,
Sphaerodactylus macrolepis iWigoi a subspecies endemic to
Vieques, and S. roosevelti, of very limited distribution.
Occasionally, the rare Bahama Duck has been observed in water
filled bomb craters, and the Zenaida Dave and the Mourning Dove
are not uncommon near the simulated airstrip. Leatherback, and
-to a lesser degree, Green and Hawksbill sea turtles nest in
Yellow Beach south of Cerro Matfas and in Tortuga Beach in the
north shore of the tip. The American Oystercatcher can be seen
along the rocky shore east of Bahia Salinas del Sur, one of the
-few localities other than rocky offshore islets in eastern Puerto
Rico where this uncommon species Occurs. The species has nested
at nearby Coneic Cay (Sorrie 1978).

During field evaluation of this area we were not allowed tc,
venture into the bombing range area. We observed the east tip
from the top of Cerro Matfas proper, with the aid of binoculars.
Anones Lagoon, which lies directly within the bombing range

appears bad-ly degraded even in comparison to 1?78 when one of us
(J. Cardona) worked in the area. The observation point
facilities of Cerro Matias area being expanded, but not to the
point of affecting the large Black Olive trees (Bucida buceras)
west of Cerro Matfas that harbor cavities which that COUld be
used by smal owls, such as the Newton's Owl.

The area has become relatively degraded compared to 1979.
The east tip of Vieques is a primary wildlife area.

64--- Conejo Island (Vieques) M-45

This cay, located about one mile South of Cerro Matias and
owned by the US Navy, harbors one of the largest breeding
colonies of the Brown Pelican (FE) in Puerto Rico. Also, several
tern species, including the Roseate Tern (FE), as well the White-
tailed Tropicbird and the American Oystercatcher nest in this
small Island of about .-]'..8 hectares. Its importance as a wildlife
area cannot be overstated. We observed the area from the Cerro
Matias Observation Point with high powered binoculars, and could
not detect significant changes in its vegetation cover relative
to 1978, when one of us (J. Cardona) visited the Island on
several occasions.

In 1978 there were a number of bomb craters on the Island,
Suggesting that bombs hit the area at least occasionally. Most
of these craters probably were formed when the Island was used as
a. bombing target during the 1960's. Also, there were also
several flare parachutes lying on the ground, which, if still
ignited when they land on the Island, may directly affect the
nesting birds or their young.

This primary wildlife area does not appear to be degraded.
However, it is important that Naval personnel practicing in the
adjacent bombing range be alerted as to the importance of the
Island to minimize the possibility of accidental hits. The Navy
has entered into a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service aimed at protecting the Brown Pelican breeding
colony of the Island.

65- Ensenada Honda Mangrove (Vieques) M-46

The Ensenada Honda Mangrove area, located east of Chiva bay
was included in the 1979 document because it supported the
uncommon White-crowned Pigeon, and probably several endangered
waterfowl.

A few i5ea turtles were observed in the Ensenada Honda bay
during 49 weekly aerial cenSUses in the mid-198o's (RathbUn et
al. 1985). All sea turtles Occurring around Vieques are listed
As Endangered under the 1973 Federal Endangered Species Act, as
amended. No West Indian Manatees (FE) were observed in the area
during that study.

DUriRg -field evaluation we observed the Common Moorhen in
-the open water area. We also observed several heron species
moving over the relatively tall mangrove trees that grow thickly
in the area. 'The Glossy Cowbird, a nest--parasite , as well as
the Yellow Warbler, one of its hosts, were common along the drier
margins. We did not observe the White--crowned Pigeon, A
Situation that prevailed during this five day stay in Vieques
Island. Nevertheless, the area is still a primary wildlife area
and increased monitoring should help determine its actual use by
wi I dli f e.

66- Chiva Swamp (Vieques) M-47

The Chiva Swamp is located in Vieques Island's Southern
coast, within the U.S. Navy Base of Camp Garcia. It was included
Among the Island's critical wildlife areas in 1979 primarily
because its inaccessibility and physical characteristics appeared
ideally suited for species such as West Indian Whistling Duck
(FE). The rare Bahama Duck is known to occur in the area.

During field evaluation of the site we observed the Common
Moorhen. The Least Tern (FT) has been seen at Chiva Swamp
(Sorrie 1975), but we did not observe it. The easily disturbed
Magnificent Frigatebird occasionally roosts in Chiva Cay, where
Sorrie (1978) has reported about 50 individuals, but no signs of
nesting. The area is similar in condition to 1979.

This area remains inaccessible, and still could potentially
harbor some of the rare species that are Suspected from it.
Increased monitoring should be established to help determine
actual wildlife use of the area. Chiva swamp is a primary
wildlife area.

7C)

67-YanUel L@tgoon (Vieques) M-47

Located in the Southeastern portion of Vieques Island, this
brackish water lagoon supports a variety of bird species
including doves and pigeons and a number of wadir--ig birds. During
the migratory bird season, plovers and sandpipers occur in large
concentrations around the shallow fringes of the lagoon and
surrounding saltflats. Also, the only recent sighting of the
Yellow---shOUldered Blackbird (FE) in Vieques Occurred in the hills
north of this lagoon in 1978 (J. Cardona Pers. Obs.).

During field evaluation the lagoon had little water, but
several heron species were observed feeding in the open water
areas that remained. Fiddler crabs (Uca sj2p.) were abundant. At
dUSk we observed a large pigeon, which Could have been a specimen
of the White--crowned Pigeonperched an a dead mangrove tree . One
Of US that had worked in the area in 1977-1978 (J. Cardona)
believes that mangrove ingrowth has reduced the potential open
water area of this lagoon, but we Could not confirm this, since
recent aerial photographs of the area are not available.

The Yanuel Lagoon is a primary wildlife area, and shOUla be
monitored to better determine its actual use by wildlife.

68- Tap6n Bay (Vieques) M-47

Tapbn bay is located in the Southern central portion of
Vieques Island, east of Cerro Caracas, within the Camp Garcia
Marine Base. It is composed of a small mangrove forest and a
medium sized salt pond that is intermittently flooded. It was
included in the 1979 document primarily because the salt pond is
used by waterfowl and shorebirds. It Was a Popular hunting
grounds at that time, since doves and pigeons are usually
abundant in the surrounding mangroves and forested hills. The
uncommon Bahama Duck and White-crowned Pigeon occur in the area.
Sorrie (1978) reported migrant Ospreys from Tap6n bay. Sea
turtles have been observed immediately outside of the relatively
shallow bay (Rathbun et al. 1985).

During field evaluation the salt pond was nearly dry and we
only observed a few Blacl%-necked Stilts. Conditions were
unsuitable for other types of waterfowl and the timing of our
visit, around noon on a Sunny day, was not the most appropriate
to survey the fauna of the area. A fair number of White--winged
Doves were observed in the Surrounding mangrove forest. We did
riot observe the White-crowned Pigeon, but this was the rule
rather than the exception during our five day stay at Vieques
Island. During a later field evaluation at nearby Puerto Ferro

White-crowns were fairly abundant, and their absence from Tapbn
bay is probably not symptomatical, but rather a reflection of
fluctuating activity levels. Hunting in wildlife areas located
within military facilities in Vieques Island has been prohibited
since around 1981-1982 (Winston Martinez, Pers. Comm.).

The area appeared in similar conditions relative to 1979.
Relatively large numbers of migrant shorebirds depend on this and
other salt ponds in Vieques Island during winter. Tap6n bay
should continue to be considered a primary critical wildlife
area.

69- Mosquito Bay, Ensenada Sombe and Ferro Bay (Vieques) 11-4e

'This area is located east of La Esperanza community in
Vieques', Southern coast. The Ensenada Sombe Beach recreational
facility borders the area to the west. It is made up primarily
of mangrove forests, salt ponds and arid scrub vegetation. This
area is pending designation as a Natural Reserve, incorporating
the biOlUMiniscent bays of Puerto Ferro and Mosquito, and
extending west to include Cayo de Tierra and Real Cays. Lands of
the U.S. Navy, adjacent to the Natural Reserve are set aside as a
conservation area. Lands in this area are owned by the Puerto
Rico Industrial Development Company (PRIDCO) and of the
Commonwealth's Public Works Department (Fuentes-Santiago 19se).

The area supports a diverse avifauna that includes
terrestrial birds, waterfowl, wading birds and shorebirds.
Forty-nine bird species have been reported from the area
(Fuentes-Santiago 1988), including the Peregrine Falcon (FE).
West Indian Manatees are occasionally observed around this area.
Sea turtles were commonly observed during a one year study of
Vieques Island utilizing aerial censuses (Rathbun et al., 1985).
All sea turtles that occur around Puerto Rico are listed as
Endangered under the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
amended.

During the field evaluation of this area in mid-December
1967 we observed the rare Bahama Duck, several heron species, the
Clapper Rail, Black.-necked Stilts, migrant Greater and Lesser
Yellowlegs and Black-bellied Plovers. Red-billed Tropicbirds
nest at Cayo Real (also known as Cayo de AfUera). The Brown
Pelican is fairly common in the area. We also observed the Ruddy
Quail Dove (but not the rarer @--'%ey West Quail Dove, which has been
reported from the area) and several warbler species, both
resident and migrant.

Dumpinb of garbage and scrap metal along interior dirt roads
aesthetically affect this area. However, patrolling by DNR
Ranger Corps stationed in the Ensenada Sombe Beach Recreational
Facility has kept this illegal activity to a minimum.
Designation as a Natural Reserve will provide additional
mechanisms for the protection of this primary wildlife area.

7(-)-- West Vieques (Vieques) M-49

The west end of Vieques Island was included in the 1979
document primarily because it supported what then was believed to
be the largest Population of the rare White-crowned Pigeon in
Puerto Rico. Also, there are several brackish water lagoons
Surrounded by fairly well developed mangrove systems that support
the rare Bahama Duck. The West Indian Whistling Duck (CT) has
been reported from these lagoons.

Sandy beaches around the area support nesting of several sea
turtles, including the Leatherback (FE), Hawksbill (FE), and
Green (FE) sea turtles. The West Indian Manatee (FE) occurs in
relatively large concentrations in the northwestern end of
Vieques Island, especially west of Mosquito pier, and this is one
of the prime localities for the species in Puerto Rico. A report
on the distribution of Manatees and sea turtles in Puerto Rico
(Rathbun et al. 1985) provides information of their seasonal
occurrence around Vieques Island.

During field evaluation of areas in Vieques Island on mid-
April 1987 only the lagoons in the west end had water in them,
with the exception of Boca Quebrada lagoon.

The narrow channel that connects Boca Ouebrada lagoon to the
sea had become blocked by sand during rough weather. This,
together with the drought conditions common to the first few
months of the year Cause its drying out and result in extensive
mangrove death. Mangrove losses in this lagoon date back to at
least 1978 according to Sorrie (1978), who had observed the West
Indian Whistling Duck (CT). That was the last time the species
was reported from the lagoon. We observed several of the more
common waterfowl, such as the Common Moorhen. The Great Egret,
Louisiana Heron and the Little Blue Heron were also observed in
the lagoon. The lagoon has become degraded, but the US Navy was
in the process of reopening the natural channel. In fact, a new
channel had been built next to the natural one but it failed to
work due to poor design.

In the i-*iani lagoon complex, which includes the Pobre and
Arenas lagoons we observed the Yellow-crowned Night Her-on, the

7 '--.

Great Blue Heron, the Great Egret, the Common Moorhen, the rare
Bahama Duck, the Clapper Rail, and heard the uncommon White-
crowned Pigeon. This was the only instance in which we found
evidence of the latter species during Our five day stay in the
Island, in spite of having searched intensively the west end,
including the middle elevations of Monte Pirata. It is possible
that our field evaluation coincided with low activity levels for
the species but the Situation merits further investigation, as
White--crowned Pigeons were relatively common in Vieques in 1978
(J. Cardona, Pers. Obs.). In a later field evaluation in late
May 1908 we observed about a dozen individuals Of this species
around Playa Grande lagoon, to the South. The Kiani lagoon
complex appears to be in good condition.

Access to Playa Grande Lagoon in the SOUth-west Was
difficult and we observed the area form a nearby vantage point.
We observed several wading bird species including the Louisiana
Heron, the Snowy Egret, and the Little Blue Heron. The channel
that connects the lagoon to the sea was also blocked by sand.
However, in this instance we detected less mangrove death than in
Boca Quebrada Lagoon. Possibly less time had elapsed since the
blocking of the channel. Corrective action was also planned by
the US Navy to restore the channel.

Navy personnel that regularly patrol the west end claimed
they had observed a small owl around the vicinity of Monte Pirata
on several occasions. We searched the area at night but did not
find the bird. The possibility that these are specimens of
Newton's Owl, a rare subspecies of the Puerto Rican Screech Owl
long Suspected from Vieques, merits further investigation.

Wildlife areas in the west end of Vieques as a whole appear
to be in good condition relative to 1979, but we did not observe
several Of the important wildlife reported from these localities.
Some form of regular monitoring of the area should be implemented
to detect wildlife population trends and to provide insights into
their Causes, if any. Also, channels to the lagoons should be
kept operational to prevent degradation of the mangrove systems,
as these provide nesting Substrate and refuge to many of the
species that use the area. These actions could be coordinated
with Navy personnel. All areas discussed in this segment lie
within lands owned by the navy and are protected from
encroachment.

The west end of Vieques contains marine, aquatic and upland
-forest systems supporting a great variety of wildlife making it a
primary wildlife area.

-174

71- Monito Island M-50

Monito Island is located about three miles North-west of
Ilona Island, in the Mona Passage, west of Puerto Rico. Of
ex,tremely rugged topography, this small Island is difficult to
reach by boat due to-the strong currents that commonly Occur
,RrOUnd it, and because its only landing spot is difficult to
-find. Human disturbance is minimal. This, together with its
varied topography that includes cliffs, sea-facing cave openings,
and a sloping plateau with patches of low vegetation has resulted
in one of the most outstanding seabird nesting areas in Puerto
Rico. This remote island, along with Mona Island, was declared a
Natural Reserve in 1986.

Moni to's wildlife Val Lte is r emar @:: ab 1 e. I tSupports a
breeding population of the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird (FE).
During field evaluation of this area in mid-July 19137 we observed
about 15 to 20 individuals of this subspecies of the Yellow-
shouldered Blackbird. Antonio Nieves, a former Resident
Biologist in Mona Island, asserts that this number has been
stable during the last few years.. Most blackbirds were in pairs
and apparently nesting in small cavities in sea-facing cliffs.
They moved freely and frequently between the plateau and the
cliff cavities, probably transporting food for nestlings. The
Island also Supports the endemic Monito gec@::o (FE). This small
ground dwelling lizard is most frequently found underneath rocks
of several inches in diameter. During the field evaluation we
inspected more than 200 rocks and were unable to find a single
individual. One of us (M. Rivera) had previous experience and
great success searching for and finding the Monito gecko several
years ago. Additional searches should be conducted to ascertain
the current status of this species, one of the rarest reptiles
anywhere in the world.

This area is better known for its seabirds. During the
field evaluation of the Island we observed fully feathered
nestlings of the Magnificent Frigatebird. Close to two hundred
-flying individuals were seen soaring overhead. We also found
nestlings of the three booby species known from the Island; the
BrGwn, Red-footed and Masked boobies. We found eggs only in the
nests of the firsi species. Nestlings were in any stage between
covered with down and Almost ready to fledge. We found no nests
of the Laughing Gull, known to nest there, although we observed
about fifty individuals of this species flying overhead. We
observed several nests of the Brown Noddy, but were Surprised to
find 0 nests of the Sooty Tern. The latter nests in large
colonies and we had found it nesting in Mona Island the day
before our visit to Monito. Monito probably lacks sufficient
adequate nesting Substrate to Support that species or breeding
for the year had been completed in this locality. Rats are

(f
75

abundant in-MonitD, and they may prevent Successful breeding of
ground nesting seabirds, Such as Sooty Terns. An intensive rat
.control campaign prior to the tern nesting season (Cruz and Cruz
1988) may improve their chances of Successful breeding in the
Island.

We observed at least three individuals of the Green sea
turtle (FE) surfacing near Monito's coast. The Island lacks
beaches and therefore nesting of this species is not possible.

Monito Island is in similar conditions relative to 1979. it
is a prime wildlife area and we recommend that signs be posted
alerting boatmen that visits to the Island may be effected only
with previous authorization from the DNR secretary. It is a
primary wildlife area.

723- Mona Island M-50

Mona Island, together with the rain forest of El YunqUe,
simbolize wilderness in the minds of most Puerto Ricans. -This
semi-arid island of 13,68:5 acres is made up of stratified
limestone and dolomite rocks. It lies near the center of the
Mona passage and is approximately 42 and 37 miles away from
Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, respectively. Monito,
Mona's satellite island is located about 3 miles to the north--
West.

Mona Supports a unique array of endemic species among both
its flora and fauna. There are seven species endemic to the
Island among reptiles and amphibians, including the Mona Island
Ground Iguana (FE) that reaches up to four feet in length.
Species in this genus are endangered or threatened throughout
their range. Feral pigs dig out and feed on their eggs and feral
cats often eat their Young. A fence was built spanning the Uvero
Beach---Sardinera area to exclude pigs from one of the principal
nesting areas of iguanas and sea turtles. Uvero Beach, where sea
turtle nest predation has been the most severe in recent years of
monitoring (Anastasia Konto, Pers. Comm.), is located about three
kilometers to the south-west of Sardinera in the same low lying
p I at eaU.

Other endemic reptilian fauna include the Mona Blind Snake
the colorful,. Mona boa (FT), the small litter inhabiting gecko
SphaerodactylLtS monensis, the teid lizard Ameiva alb0QUttata, the
arboreal anole lizard Anolis monensis, and the tree -frog
EleUtherodactylus monensis, usually found in moist places Such as
caves and sinkholes.

'76

Mona I-sland supports nesting of the Green (FE), Hawksbill
(FE) and Leatherback (FE) sea turtles. Research in progress on
the breeding biology of these species by Ms. Anastasia V:'ontos, a
doctoral student from the University of Georgia, has already
resulted in management recommendations to promote increased
survival of these marine turtles. The above mentioned fence is
the result Of one of these recommendations. Still, the taking of
adUl ts b y UnscrUpUl OUS fishermen continues as turtles either
leave or approach nesting areas. Although the DNR Ranger Corps
maintains personnel on Mona Island, as does the Commonwealth's
Police Department, their logistical facilities are currently less
than adequate for the patrolling of Mona's waters.

Mona Island's avifauna is not as unique as reptiles and
amphibians in terms of endemic species. However, it Supports
what still is the largest breeding Population of White-tailed
Tropicbirds in Puerto Rico. During field evaluation of this area
in mid--J'uly 1987 we observed upwards of 40 pairs, many of them
performing their characteristic mating ritual flights near the
Island's inaccessible cliffs. Red--foo:ted and Brown boobies also
Occur in the Island and maintain breeding colonies in remote
portions of Mona, near cliffs. Mr. Antonio Nieves, a former
Resident Biologist at Mona, believes the colonies of both species
are currently healthy.

Sooty and Bridled terns were almost through nesting when we
evaluated the site, as the vast majority of nestlings were fully
feathered, and many had fledged. These species nest on large
boulders beneath tall cliffs, near sea level. We also observed a
fair number of the endemic subspecies of the Yellow-shouldered
Blackbird (FE). Several were carrying feeding or nest building
materials to nests located in inaccessible sea-facing cliffs.
Possibly the impact of the parasitic Glossy Cowbird is less in
Mona Island than in mainland Puerto Rico due to the difference in
nesting substrate preference between the two subspecies of
blackbirds. Alternatively, not enough time has elapsed since the
arrival of the cowbird in Mona Island. This has been the subject
of debate and of ongoing research by graduate Students.

Dove and pigeon hunting has been prohibited for some time in
Mona Island, and the rare White-crowned Pigeon was abundant,
especially in the interior of the limestone plateau. In spite of
the pigeon and dove hunting prohibition, during a recent Survey
of spent shotgun shells in Mona, approximately one fourth were of
the birds-hot type. The carrying and possesion of birdshot
ammunition should be prohibited in Mona.

Goat and pig hunting is allowed in Mona, and intense
monitoring of the resource has been maintained for the last few
years. Although the deleterious effect of pigs on the breeding

i guanas and sea tUrt I es is well documented, whether goat@S
negatively affect the flora is the subject of a polarized debate.
Once the debate is resolved, the DNR should decide whether
management should be aimed toward goat control or toward
Sustainable yield for recreational purposes.

Mona and Monito Islands were designated a Natural Reserve in
1986. A modest Museum has been established in Sardinera Beach.
A resident biologist and supporting staff are permanently
stationed on the Island, and research projects are encouraged.
In addition, the road between Sardinera. and PAjaros has been
improved, allowing better patrolling of the area. We conclude
that the area's status has improved since 1979. However, steps
should be taken to minimize the taking of adult sea turtles near
the Island. Mona Island is a primary wildlife area.

73- Desecheo Island M-51

Desecheo Island is located in the Mona Passage, about 15
miles west of the northwest corner Of Puerto Rico. The entire
island encompasses 36C) acres. The Island is extremely rugged and
rocky. At the turn of the century Desecheo harbored the world's
largest known Brown Booby colony. Other species Such as the
Magnificent Frigatebird, Red Footed Booby and terns and gulls
also bred in the Island. Years of bombing practice, and the
later establishment of a free ranging Rhesus monkey colony for
medical research by the National Institute of Health (USFWS 1986")
resulted in the greatly dimished habitat value of the Island. In
late 1976 the Island was returned to the administration of the
National Wildlife Refuge System, after having been under the
administration of several Commonwealth and Federal entities. By
1979, no seabirds were breeding Successfully on Desecheo.

DUr i ng field evaluation we f OUnd about 150 to '20 0
Magnificient Frigatebirds and about an equal number of Red--footed
Boobies roosting on the Island's hills. We did not find any
nests. Brown Boobies, terns, and seagulls were observed also
flying around the Island.

Efforts to remove the remainina Rhesus monkeys that inhabit
Desecheo have been initiated by the USFWS, which administers the
Island. But because several monke, ',s remain at large, these
efforts must be sustained to prevent the population from reaching
pre-trapping densities. We did not observe any monkeys during
two and a half days of evaluation of this island. Only a few
Surviving individuals were estimated at that time.

Three other infamous introdUCteeS, rats, cats and feral
goats, also inhabit the Island (USFWS 1986). Rats are extramely
numerous and fearless. We believe rats must share part of the
blame with monkeys for the island's decline as a seabird
sanctuary. The merits of a poisoning campaign to reduce rat
density before the breeding season of seabirds should be given
consideration. Such campaigns have been Successful in'protecting
endangered seabirds in the GalApagos Islands (Cruz and Cruz
1988). We did not observe cats, and are unaware of any estimates
of their abundance in Desecheo. Goats are few, estimated at
about thirty. We observed a herd of nine, including several
Uven i 1 es.

Desecheo, although Currently of secondary importance to
wildlife, is probably on its way to becoming a primary wildlife
area once again.

74-- Palmas Pond, Arroyo (Arroyo) M-52

The Palmas pond is located South of highway 3, north of the
Punta GUilarte Public Beach facilities in Arroyo, in the
southeastern caost of the Island. The pond was created
relatively recently, after the failure of drainage pumps. This
privately owned area, of approximately 146 hetares in size, was
formerly utilized for Sugarcane. This area represents an
addition beyond those included in the 1979 Critical Wildlife
Areas Document and the 1980 Supplement. It is surrounded by
several Sugarcane fields on its northern and western portions.

Palmas Pond was quickly colonized by a variety of waterfowl
and wading birds. It has become a popular hunting grounds.
During a field evaluation of the site related to hunting
regulations performed in March 1988 by Mr. Jos6 L. Chabert of the
DNR's Technical Assessment Division, he observed Ruddy Ducks
(CT), Masked Ducks (CT), and Caribbean Coots (CT). Also, Chabert
rioted that Common Moorhen were abundant in the area even though
his visit occurred late in the hunting season. During field
evaluation of the site in mid-October 19ee, we observed Brown
Pelicans (FE), rare Black-crowned Night Herons, Caribbean and
American Coots and Pied-billed Grebes. Also, we observed five
ardeid species, including the Great, Snowy and Cattle egrets, and
the Green-backed and Little Blue herons. Migrant Ospreys and
flocks of migrant yellowlegs were also observed in the area.

The area is relatively shallow, and standing dead trees and
patches of emergent vegetation are two of the factors that make
it attractive to waterfowl and other species. Palmas pond should
be monitored frequently to determine its importance to thE-_@

.1
/9

breeding of the Species found there. The area Should be acquired
by the government or other means should be explored to accomplish
its protection. It is a primary wildlife area.

LITERATURE CITED

Berrios, J., M. Canals, [A. Ferrer, A. Garcia, J. Gonzalez, A.
Molinares, L. 0. Nieves, R.A. Perez, M. Rivera, S. Silander
& J. Villamil. 1981. Suplemento Tecnico parael plan de
manejo del Area de Bahia de Jobos. J. Villamil and M.
Canals (editores). Division Asesoramiento Tecnico, Area
Investigaciones Cientificas. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Carvajal-Zamora, J. R. 1976. Factores que afectan la
bioluminiscencia en algunas sistemas estuarinos y marinos de
Puerto Rico. En: Departamento Recursos Naturales. Tercer
Simposio Departamento Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto
Rico, pp. 18-25.

Cintron, G., A. E. Lugo, D. J. Pool & G. Morris. 1978.
Mangroves of arid environments in Puerto Rico and adjacent
islands. Biotropica. l0:110-121.

Collazo, J.A. & E. E. Klaas. 1985. Status and ecology of the
Brown Pelican in Greater Puerto Rican Bank: region. Final
report to the Department of Natural Resources, Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico. Iowa Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research
Unit. Iowa State University. Ames, Iowa.

Cruz , F. & J. B. Cruz. 1988. Control of Black: Rats (RattuS
rattus) and its effect on nesting Dark-rumped Petrels in the
Galapagos Islands. Vida Silvestre Neotropical. 6:3-13

Del LLano, M., R. Woodbury, and G. Cintron. 1980. Flora del
Bosque de Pinones. Borrador preliminar. Departamento
Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Department of Natural Resources. 1979. Critical wildlife areas
of Puerto Rico. Area of Planning and Resources Analysis,
Department of Natural Resources. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Departmento Recursos Naturales. 1986. Documento de designacion
Reserva Natural Bosque de Pterocarpus de Dorado. Programa

de Manejo de la Zona Costanera, Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Departamento Recursos Naturales. 1986. Documento de designacion
Reserva Natural Pantano y Bosque de Pterocarpus de humacao.
Programa de Manejo de la Zona Costanera, Departamento
Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Departamento Recursos Naturales. 1985. Plan de manejo del Area
de Planificacion Especial de la Laguna Tortuguero. Division
de planificacion de Recursos Terrestres, Area
Planificacion. Departamento Recursos Naturales. San Juan,
Puerto Rico.

Diaz, C., B. Cintr6n, M. Del Llano & J. Toro. 1983. Informe
tecnico para el plan de manejo de la Reserva Natural de la
Parguera. Division de Asescramiento Tecnico, Area de
Investigaciones Cientificas. Departamento de Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Diaz Marrero, 0., J. A. Colon, & B. A. Cintron. 1983. Inventory
of the flora and fauna of Martin Pega channel. Technical
Assessment Division, Scientific Research Area. Department
Of Natural Resources. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Encarnacion, L. & G. I. Fuentes. 1988. Plan de manejo del Area
de Planificacion Especial del Suroeste, Sector la Parguera.
(Revision 1988). Division de Planificacion de Recursos
Terrestres, Area Planificacion. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Ecology and Environment Inc. 1986. Land use management plan for
Naval facilities, Vieues, Puerto Rico. (Draft). Department
of the Navy.

Environmental uality Board. 1972. Vieques 1972 Survey of the
Natural Resources. Environmental quality Board. Office of
the Governor, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

Faaborg, J. R. & J. W. Terborgh. 1980. Patterns of migration
in the West Indies. In: A. Keast and E. S. Morton
(editors). Migrant birds in the Neotropics. Smithsonian
Institution Press, Washington D.C. pp. 157-163.

Ferrer, H. 1979. Informe sobre la vida silvestre en el Area de
Planificacion de la Laguna Tortuguero. Division de
Planificacion de Recursos Costaneros, Pesca y Vida
Silvestre. Area de Planificacion. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Fuentes-Santiago, G. I. 1988. Documento de designacion Reserva
Natural Bahias Luminiscentes de Vieques. Division de
Planificacion de Recursos Terrestres, Area Planificacion.
Departamento Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Hall, V. & A. D. Tucker. 1985. Leatherback Turtle
Dermochelys coriacea Nesting in Culebra, Puerto Rico in
1985. Research Report Submitted to the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service.

McKenzie, F. & M. Benton. 197.23. Biological Inventory of the
Waters and Keys of North-East Puerto Rico. Division of
Natural Resources, Department of Public Works. San Juan,
Puerto Rico.

Molinares, A. 1978. Reproduction and morphology of the west
Indian Ruddy Duck in Puerto Rico. MS Thesis. Oklahoma State
University.

Moreno, J. A. & R. Perez. 1980. First supplement to Critical
Wildlife Areas of Puerto Rico. Draft. Division de
Planificacion de Recursos. Costaneros, Pesca y Vida
Silvestre, Area de Planificacion. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico. 16 pp.

Ojeda-Kessler, A. G. 1986. Culebra Giant Anole Status
Determination Study. E-S-I Study 4. Final report.
Scientific Research Area. Department of Natural Resources.
San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Palacios, R. 1981. Evaluacion Ambiental. Informe tecnico Area
Planificacion Especial de Pigones. Division de
Planificacion de Recursos Costaneros, Pesca y Vida
Silvestre. Area de Planificacion. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Perez, N. & H. Ferrer. 19681. Avifauna. Informe tecnico Area
Planificacion Especial de Pinones. Division de
Planificacion de Recursos Costaneros, Pesca y Vida
Silvestre. Area de Planificacion. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Perez-Ramirez, M. A., Manuel del Llano & Carlos Laboy. 1981.
Suplemento tecnico para la Reserva Natural Laguna Joyuda y
Terrenos Asociados. Division de Asesoramiento Tecnico, Area
de Investigaciones Cientificas. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Post W. and J. W. Wiley. 1977. Reproductive interactions of the
Shiny Cowbird and the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird. The
Condor 79:176-184.

Raffaele, H. A. 1983. A guide to the birds of Puerto Rico and
the Virgin Islands. Fondo Educativo Interamericano. San
Juan, Puerto Rico.

Rathbun, G. B., T. Carr, N. Carr, & C. A. Woods. 1985. The
distribution of Manatees and sea turtles in Puerto Rico,
with, emphasis on Roosevelt Roads Naval Station.
Installation Planning Division, Engineering Command.
Atlantic Division Naval Facilities.

Reyes de Ruiz, N. B. 1971. Estudio ecologico de la Laguna
Tortuguero, Puerto Rico. Universidad de Puerto Rico,
Recinto Universitario de Mayaguez. Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

Rivera-Ortiz, M., J. Villamil, A. Molinares, J. Berrios & W.
Ortiz. 1981. Suplemento de informacion tecnica para la
Reserva Natural de Las Cabezas de San Juan, Fajardo, Puerto
Rico. Area de Investigaciones Cientficas, Departamento de
Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Rodriguez, J. 1981. Calidad de Agua. Informe tecnico Area
Planificacion Especial de Pinones. Division de
Planificacion de Recursos Costaneros, Pesca y Vida
Silvestre. Area de Planificacion. Departamento Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Salles, R., M. del Llano, J. Rodriguez, J. Toro, G. Morris, E.
Agosto, & B. Cintron. 1983. Suplemento tecnico para el
manejo de la Reserva Natural de Cago Tiburones. Area de
Investigaciones Cientificas, Departamento de Recursos
Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Simberloff, D., and L. G. Abele. 1982. Refuge design and island
biogeographic theory; effects of fragmentation. American
Naturalist 120:41-50.

Sorrie, B. A. 1978. Report on the birds of Vieques Island,
Puerto Rico. Draft Report. U. S. Navy. 35 pp.

Sorrie, B. A. 1975. Observations on the birds of Vieques Island,
Puerto Rico. Caribbean Journal of Science. 15:89-103.

Toro, J. A. & J. A. Colon. 198o. Suplemento de informacion
tecnica para el plan de manejo del Area de Planificacion
Especial del Suroeste, Segmento de Boueron. Divison
Asesoramiento Tecnico, Area Investigaciones Cientificas.
Departamento de Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Toro J A. & J. A. Colon. 198o. Suplemento de informacion
tecnica para el plan de manejo del Area de Planificacion
Especial del Suroeste, Segmento de Guanica. Division
Asesoramiento Tocnico, Area Investigaciones Cientificas.
Departamento de Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Toro, J. A. & J. L. Chabert. 1986. Suplemento tecnico para la
designacion de la Reserva Natural de Laguna Cartagena.
Divison Asesoramiento Tecnico, Area Investigaciones
Cientificas. Departamento de Recursos Naturales. San Juan,
Puerto Rico.

U. S. Department of Commerce, NOAA, Office of CZM. 1978. Puerto
Rico Coastal Management Program and FEIS. Washington, D.C.

U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1908o. Annual narrative report,
calendar year 1986. Desecheo National Wildlife Refuge,
Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Refuges. National
Wildlife Refuge System, Fish and Wildlife Service. U. S.
Department of the Interior.

Villamil, J., M. Canals, S. Silander, M. del LLano, J. Gonzalez,
E. Questell, M. Perez, M. Rivera, M. J. Velez, V. Mestey,
& R. Perez. 1980. Suplemento tecnico para la Reserva
Natural Caja de Muertos. Area de Investigaciones
Cientfficas, Departamento de Recursos Naturales. San Juan,
Puerto Rico

Villamil, J., J. A. Colon, M. del Llano, M. Perez, & I. Corujo.
1981. Suplemento de informacion tecnica para la designacion
de la Reserva Natural Calio la Bouilla, Mayaguez, Puerto
Rico. Area de Investigaciones Cientificas, Departamento de
Recursos Naturales. San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Wiley, J. W. and B. N. Wiley. 1979. The biology of the White-
crowned Pigeon. Wildlife Monographs No. 64.

CRITICAL COASTAL WILDLIF=- AREAS OF PUERTO RICO

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0 0 0. 0 '00*0*.
0. 0. 6:0. 00 -'0'...
:o. * 0. 60 0.
o . .'o*.Io*.o 0 0 0 .00% :-0-600-
0 0-0o-.
0:: 0070 .*0 . . 00.1.
0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000.*.Ooo.......
0:.:::: 0 0.
4v :::::-o
0 : . 0 0
0 0 0 : 0 2
son Josi 0 0 0 0-. N A J I B 0

6o6 o
e6ooofoaoo4oea
* 4 o o * a 6
o * o 6 o 4* o
0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 * 0
Guanajlbo
Castillo e6o7oooooo
0 000000.0.0.0.07
00 .. 0.0 ....
0 * 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
00000000a000000a0a40000:0000400-
a 0 0 0 0 a 0 0 0 0 0 0 a 0 0
0 0 a 0 0 0 6 0 6 0* 0. . 0
Punta Gucrnojlbo a*a0000a04a0a00000a0600006

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 a 4
0 * o * o Ioa 0 a *
0.oo. ......
0400606,000 0-0 0 0..
a o 6 e oo* o7o7oo
Cerro Cornet ESCALA 1:20,000 If" oo.*ooo.*.*.*.*.oo*
DNR 1988 7oooooo
0 0

Mapped by: M. RIVERA an
G. I. FUENTES
,2@ Tachybaptu dominicus MAP F171
Trichechus monatus Source D N R Natural Heritage Program
Peleconu occidentalls 1
103

JOYUDA LA60ON

BAHIA
BRAMADERO

G U A N A J. I B 0

Punta Arena

L A G U N- A

JOYLIDA

Cole Raton*$ 0 ESCALA 1,20,000 1 Kin
10 D MR 1909

Mapped by: M. RIVERA and
0. 1. FUENTES

MAP riel

104

CUEVA LAGOON

IN.t

sabono
Alto

U V,

R A
00clas

30 10

0:0
0 000000** 400 0 060a00 0
: 0 0 0 0 0 0 *!@h a 0 0
00 0*0* 0000 40a0 0 0 00so09 0
* 0 0 0 0 0 0%00 0 *
0 .0 00 * a 0 00 6 0 00
:0 00 0 000400060 600 0 0 4:0:0:9 000
0 * 0 6 0 0:0:0*0,000:00
0 0 00 0 0 0 000 0 0
00 00:-:: 0 0 0 0
0 0 00 0* a4 6 0 0 0 0 9000 1 00 0 0 to
0 0 0* *0 : ::* 0*0**00000*000 0 0
0* 00:* :0 0009)0 000 % 00 000 0
000 0 0000*0 0a0: 0::0
ABO RO
0 000 000:0%::00060006000*060 Mapped by M. RIVERA and
0 0a00 a0006060*00060600 DNR 1968 0.1. FUENTES
0ESCALA 1-.20,000 lKm MAP

Dendrocygno orborea Source - DNFt Natural Heritage Program

105

GUANIQUILLA

Pto. Boca PrIsto

EL CERRO

Quebrada ZUMbd
n

P D E R N A L E S

BOCA
PRIETA

1AJ 30 Cer roen
Alood

-WVE.90tv VI Ila Tala
N BAHIA DE BOQUERON mosses,
@*@gas,
Escola: 1-20,00o 1xffl

D N R 1988

Mapped by: M. RIVERA and
G.I.FUENTES
Dendrocygn arborea Source: DNR Natural Heritage Program MAP
(g) Peleconus occidentalls >

106

BOGUERON REFUGE

Villa Taira 0 0 0 0 00,000 0
0 00 0
C03 0 00 0
0-00 .0
0
see
0 00
a0 000 0 0 ease
r
Basque star I do 00000 00 0 8 0 0 U E 0'.44
01

Bahia

de
4& Falco poregrinus
Ana% baharntnzis
Boquerdn
Todus mexicanus
antilic
Tachybactu doffliftleus
Fullca carlbosa
ORyura jac"Iceng4a 'Sourcs ONR
Melowpos po"orricensis Natural Heritage Program W
0 1
Ag*Ialus xanthomus EFU
Polocanus aceldt"talls
Fregato magniticen AL 44
E
Loglaille portaricenst
L
Porzona flovivon
r

c
Propuesto desorrolls, I.Ectntt.Carto States

Mapp

CABO ROJO SALTFLATS AND ADJACENT AREAS

VIC

301

BA h /A I A

P ini 411 a
A0 Jul

C)
CID

Pug to
cn a*

mappe
_j

Ch4rddrIv alemandrinus anI41IGruffil
Agotaiv Itembefts SOUMCC OHM %&TUIIIIIAL. HIERITASIE PROGRAM
P91acanus occjdfnf:aII*>

CARTAGENA LAGOON

P A L M A

Al Z. .70-0-o o
M *1*100100
9 e 0 000
0 0
AL ee %
:%
0411

er,

If
If

0 0

Is
U

S, r r a Berm e (3
0 ESCALA 1:20,000 1 KM MaPped
DNR 19188 and

Dendrocygn arborea tylica caribaeo
Tachybaptu dominicus & Porzano flaviven12 Source DNR Natural Heritage Prog
41 Oxyfiro joinalcon 41 Agelaius xanthomus
Ea -1c 0Perearinus M

LA PA R G U E R A

PAR GU E R A

PALMAREJO

1 Pun a
LLANOS Pfta
Isla
LLANOS COSTA ,,,r 0
Ia , M
v cq"lume s 00 ado-
UAG Ole$ Ma
N to
to
I-ujvo de Ayala

0
ntal
uayoca
n

nta
tahaya TO

0 0
LUM I- I-A LL I JUU-L -U W1j W.

0 IKm
py
Iopmta me

Peleconus occidentalls Sterna antillarum, *Source DNR Natural Heritage Program
Agelaius xanthomus Trichechus manatus

110

GUANICA STATE FOREST WEST-

ENSENAD OU

Bahia
Narcelle

% "a Fare

Congo do Jume

radles

CaYo Don Luis
r
r,4

tt
ENSENADA LAS PARDAS

Calera

Info

Pto Jorobod to ftoe
kCayo Torreatwo PIG o@
meall a
0 Win li@ m A R C A R I B

polocany
�12m diffiffor- $*NM- Only Natural
&,!PRF 99WI "Wife" Preordain
Caprimuigus nacytherus mapped by

G U A N I C A LAGOON
N, A

I E 4
Zz- zzt zz@ :Z:z :Ztz
331

Z:Z.

El PeAdn

0 Escolo 1*20,000 lKm

Mappod by: 0. RIVERA and 0. [.FUENTES
DRN 1908

112

GUANICA STATE FOREST EAST

s u s U, B A J A

@,-Aroa Quijada

C A R E N E R"

8 0

80 S 0 u E G U A N I C

............

Playa LAgWW
do Jawc.1
r a Solnearto BAHIA
do Caft Gorda DE
o
LA BALLENA

plo
Jacinto
pla
ww

AAgaigi
L44

M A R C A R I B E
man

113

LLUVERAS

INDIOS
. . . . . . . . . .

.%XXO

G%)
00

41 ---

CN
Pta. Ventana Es colo - 1:
ON

Mapped by: M
M A R C A R B E

Pelecanus occidentalis A& Erstmochelys imbricato
w1gus noctitherus Source: ON R Natural Heritage Program.

CABULLON MANGROVE

00
00."o,

.00,

10 op, J*

YONC

I a d (ei a

Escalo 1: 20,000
A&
4 1 V4n

M A R C A R 1 8 E
Mapped by M. RIVERA and
G. I. FUENTES
D N R 1988

MAP N2

115

BERBERIA CAYt CAJA DE MUERTOS AND MORRIL

C A I T

Ponce

M A

Fol rc

Isla del

M A R C A R B E

'erro
Morrillo
4k MAR C
dy=Llfito ESCALA 1:20,000
LOC
Itx

POWs

116

Punta Pefrona Mangrove and Caracoles Cays

SANTA ISABEL

ban

.............
lo

FELICIA I J A U C A I

PU ic

CPT

0
% 0 0
00
0
U 1LJ- LILJLI@111@Ljjul U U UU LIJLI.Li U I.Lill U U Lill
0 ESCALA 1,20,OW Km
PsIecomwe Occles"tdis ORR Ims IMPPOd by W. RIVERA and G.lL FUENTES
M A P M31

117

PUNTA ARENAS

701

*'a 0
a 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
*:*as 0 0 0 0 0 000000000*00000*00 -000000,04 0 0
0000000000000000 a a 0 a 0 0 0!0 a a 0
9 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oe
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 0 0 0 a a a a 0 0 0 0,0 0 0 0 0 0
00 0000 00 000000 J600000000006600 I
a 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 a 0 A G U I R R E J,
0 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
0 : 0 60060006009 1
0: 0:0 : see 0 0 0 0 0 0
plays do 0 00 0 :00 0 0a0a 0a
Salinas 0 0 4 0 0
0 a
n a a n s ;a;.;.
a

ESCALA,% 1: 20,000
Win

v I A 0 a

MAR CARISE Mapped by: M. RIVERA and
G.I.FUENTES
DNR 1988
Polocanus occidenton MAP

118

Punta Pozuelo and Mar Negro

SAN FILIPLE

HUM CHIN

'loll 00 pe f
-Oo do J.

I % 11 1 A 0 E 9 0 s
IN d*4
ho
A r4
o
Pon Pogo W

a rri 6

Caj be, W I din *a
N

Af A R C A R 8 E 0
DOOR 190

(D Sourco, ONR Natural Heritag* Program.
Trichechus matiatus >

PANDURA MOUNTAIN RANGE

J U AN M A R T I N

L
YABUCO ......

A I N 0

c u I L L I R

QUEBRAD

IIIn 111
T L A N T E U A P11
Ul

Maunabo
E M A J A Ir A
lu

ftaft Tom

m A C .4 R 1 0 E
-.0. ma

m A

HUMACAO SWAMP

Z-

ANTON R

09 On

Laguna

Playa do Humacao
go,
00 00
zz @3 n1a Sanfla *#::oo::###, 0 'J.,
0*0
909:0
01.0
04"o
0
A

Laqu
nda (34
uerto
do Humacao

PJbilco do Humacao

0 IKm
t A S a n t, o?'TRe'r e s a
4,

Laguna
Sotlfq Teresa 2)

Source DNR Natural Heritage Program
ox domfolco Dendrocyq arborea
It*
Polecanu oceldentalls Oxyu Jamaicans

F.Ico peregrinu corlboon
Erst.oh.ly W.M. A Dermochely, corfaced
U Tachybapt dominleto coretta corolla

DNR 1988
Mapped by: M. RIVERA and G.I. FUENTES

MAP F351

121

ROOSEVELT ROADS NAVAL BASE
:-:jCEl
BA

c H U P A C A LLO M A C 0 S

.,tt

QUEBRA E A

ROOSEVELT *ROADS ft,3 SEVE T910 A 0 3

NAVAL RESERVATION MA AL R SERVATION

LAft*L
4@ Q A A

do Puerga
U A Y AC

ENSENADA HONDA

We Cobras

PASAJE D E V I E 0 U E S
Ile

ONR 1988

0--g M$pd-

Mappod by. AL RIVERA mW Gl FUEMYES

122

FAJARDO COASTLINE

P0;
BaMa do Ficlardo
f Gy
I neudo

P1 do Fa)ard
PUE RT REAL

195

Rio
D
ee I
C
3

Ile
Ou E 19 R A D@,, VUELT v Cos

V. %

PUER D
A" REY DE EL MENT Bt7htl7 0
D E M A"o,.ke U A

0 1 Km P N FIgueras
M CHOS

ChelonI m7d
cyc 040
h

Source. DH Natural
Trichochus Ind"OtUl Herflaq* Progrofn

Mapped by t M. RIVE P A and 0.1. FUENTES
0"R Igoe MAP H__j

123

FAJARDO CORDILLERA

0 C E it N 0 A T L A N r i c o

Lot

0 icacos
Cabeza SAN JUAN
Chiquita
Cay'a Lob"

0. hlo

Arrocife
0 OL 4 Hwmanos
LA
Isla oml 3

Cap Obispo
I a Palominitos
ej ',@Cayo Zancudo
I LLL1 UL
Playa do Fajardo

Cayo Largo

01sw do Ramos

Escal
MP 4

65-t. 35'
(D L-retmochol Imbricate ID Mob mabouvo Map re-drown from
> Source DNR Natural Heritage. Mapped by: M.
(3) Epicrates monenals grantl @ Pelecanue occidentalls

124

F 4 NO ATLAvr c i:

C 3b iv
:hl qu to

BAhlol LAS ABEZ 3

aea
a eve an
Los a a a

Croab03
AR A DE ACAMPA a we a
I(Com Rio Famanto 0 00 :8 w:w a
4 3 R otl
8%
asaaaa
C A 8 E Z A 0a a
ol aa

.1
01

(D Eretmochel imbricate source: DNR Naturall Herltage Program 0
(2) pelecanus occidentous
@ Columba Isucocsphola
AGUAS PRIETAS LAGOON, GRANDE LAGOON AND ADJA
Mapped by - M

125

ENSENADA COMEZON

0 C E A N 0 L A N T I C 0

LU
Ca
H E R R E R A de 0'
P
v

Z A R Z A L
tit
N

nr Escalo,- 1:20,00
0 DNR 1988

tage m
Dendrocygn arborea Sterna antillorum Source ONR Natural H ri 10. ProgrIa
Pelecanus occlaentalis Ageloju xantamus >

CIENAGA, BAJA

1eques'

MINI
unto
Son Agust(n
M E D I A N I A

A LT A* 187
ale -0 go
gooo

Campo-do off

1E -

Ui
RR AS
RIO

'Aa
M

I E N G A -8 A i A

Jac

IML -=7

U
6W.

N
0 Escolo 1:20,000 IKm
0 0 410oil 0000 go
e,00go 40 0 0 00 0 0 0 0
DNR 1988 0 41, 0 0 00 0 6 041
go **,,so* 0 0 00 el 00 -0 0 io Grande
0 *.** 0
0 0 0 410
0
Mapped by M. RIVERA and
G.I. FUENTES
127 MAP

Culebra's surrounding Islets, Cornelius lagoon, Flamenco lagoon and Flamenco peninsula

OCEANO ATLANTICO

to do Melfriot

Pto Flamenco

Cayo 0
Lobito

BAHIA

FLAMENCO

Playa
J@ayo Flamenco
L.bo

6
4
PtG TORldrindo Ofande

IS L A E BRA

Colo Yorbo Ptd Tornarind .a
-4, 04
11 00

(D Cayo R afdn

aguno do
CP'QCayo dolAgua ornollo
4

AV
D PLAYA
SARDINAS I
F ENA
ESCALA 1: 30,000 Punta CrU2 AT Punta Molones
Km

DN R 1980
P

C @M

Mapped by M. RIVERA and S 0 N D A DE V E 0 U E S
S. 1. FUENTES

Erstmocholy imbricata Oxyura jamalconsis MAP
Mobuya mabouya slooni Oxyura dominlea Source : DNR Natural Heritage Program
Pelocanut oeoldente Ana@ boham*nois
128

Brava Beach, Culebra's surrounding Islets, ReSGCG Beach, Resaca Mountain, Largo Beach and Zo

0 CEANO A T L A N T I C 0

Punta Soria

ayo Mato)o
Pto Flamenco
Pto Raw

Playa Resoca &..a

FLAMENCO opte Rqsc :a SAN ISIDRO
t"D
I S, L A D E L E B R A

ZSCALA I- 30AM
0
1 !KM

Mapped by: M. RIVERA and G.I.FUENTES
DNR 1998

Mobuya me Eretmocholy Imbricate

Caretto caretto Darmachely corlocoo Sourco@ DNR Natural Heritage Program

Cholonia _Mydas Anolis roosevelf)
& Artas battorMnals I

Cementerio Bay, Culebra surrounding Islets, Los CaMos, and Puerto del Manglar

IS LA DE CULEBRA

Cava core 61.@ LOS CAROS
trata Verde at
FRAILE
U P111
43 -.9 111@41 C.Pbar
Bahi'd
10 Padilla
Sardinas

Pta. Tampico
Pic
Playa 0 +
Pta. do Maguey Sordinas .11 '0 .1 01+
0,64060 , --q +
ado 01v
0 IAO
Pli@fe vaco

a Cayo
qk1f.v @afttella cuiebra's surroundi

Ensenada Ataten,
LoquAd do Pledre dw
Awlso

Ptd- del Soldodo

N
0 Essefe 1. %nnoo
SONDA DE VIEQUES ONR 1986

(D (j)ARG. belpmensi
Lret"I"Ya imbric-ote (3@ Columba jou".4pho
Mebulf Mobett Gloe"11 Mapped by: MAIVERA and G.l. F

EAST TIP OF'VIEQUES AND CONEJO ISLAND

SONDA DE VIEQUES

Isla Yallis Punta -Salinas
Q)

ell
6. Pt ato qd@jo 7'
Bahl'a Salk=
k0cos

agune

A on*s Bah
Play

so h I'a,
S a I i n a del Sur),
109

CaYO Conejo Escalo 1:30,000
0 lKm

Moppe
M A R C A R 1 8 E and G
DRN I

Caretto caretta Chelonia mydds Dermochays coriacea
Source: DMIR N
Eretm-ochelysimbricaia Oxyura jamalcensis Pelecarvus occidentafix> Herita
L

ENSENADA HONDA MANGROVE

Tarr no& do la Marina (US-NAVY)

ah ia
dolova

0
ENSENADA HONDA

,@ayo Jolova ch
Yoye
Pta. Jalova

DL
Pto. Carenero Escolo 1:20,000 Km
?A A R CA R 1 8 E D N R 1988
Mapped by: KRIVERA and
GLFUENTES

MAP [W61
@hljaa 10 V AG

132

CHIVA SWAMP,, TAPON BAY,, and YANUEL LAGOON

Lap
T errenos de la marina La Pla

(U.S. NAVY

-7

8AHM
TA P dv
BAHIA DE LA CHIVA

Isla pta
Chiva

M A R C A R I B E 0

41 Pelecanus occidentalis MoMed by
lamalce"918 > Source DNR Natural Heritage Program
Sterna antillarum

ENSENADA SOMBE SWAIVP MOSQUITO BAY AND FERRO BAY.

let
oe-11

000010 P1 d r P
"BOO
No Pu oto Alosqu

RAC

Ensenada Sombe

0 E
77La
4

to. Negro Mapped bY
M A R C A R 1 8 E

134

WEST VIEQUES

P AS.AJE DE VIEQUES

Desombareadoro Mosclulto

Pto, Arenas

Laqu
renams

Laguna K14471

Punta
soco *Jebroda

Lo Una
Plo a GTdade

Pta. Voca ESCALA

0 IKM
M A R C A R B E Mapped by: M. RIVERA and
0. 1. FUENTES

&TrIcItechus manatus tutica caribaeo & Eretmochely imbricara
& chelonle mydos Dandrocygiva arborea Source: ONR Natural Harltage Program.
MAP

Mona and Monlto Islands

CIA 0 C E A N 0 A T L A N T I C 0
MONITO

oba Norosoft IN. ba 0 1 TOM
N, N,
0
z Punta M C Iter,
ura d@l[iljohne
is A DE 61 -j
playa Sar [nor* a
Jura do lom I Mae
efolos Ro
LLJ Lj

LLJ
LU Playa do PdJaroo
KPloy, do
Uvoro
Pun" Cal" a no -Cal"
Q- M A R C A R 1 8 E Q-

Escala 1: $0,000

0 2 3 41(m

ON R 1988
Cyclur steineyer Agelalu xanfhomus

Mormoops blainylllll Epicrate monensis
cinnamomeum monensis
Eretmochely Imbrica A Falco pAMLr1qus Source DNR Natural Heritage
Mobuya mabouy & Sphoorodactylus MiCropitheCu Program
P
@A
kpl,

Dermochells corlacea Cheloni rnydas Mapped byl M.RIVERA and
G.LFUENTES

MAP

136

DESECHEO ISLAND

Pusir I a

El Muro

.3-
I S L A D E U C HEO

Dos Piedras

Puerto do Joe Botos marizes

4.0 Puert
a a IN 0 00i"

Puerto Canoitas

0 .402 Km Punto
KICALA Culebrdn

REP
U6E
INGUN.A." Mapped by; M. RIVERA an
UsFWs

PALMAS POND ARROYO

P A A S

.0 0

Punta Guilarte

Salnearlo d
Arroyo -

Oxyur dom

0xYU jama

Fullec carlb
Punta ig Pelecanus
Eretmochely

M A R C A R I B E
Mapped by M.RIVERA

r:,vio-roGRAF'FIS OF ... S-E.'-'L.-[---CTED CRITICAL- WILDLIFE Al.-@EAII

Constitution Bridge Mudflats. This artificial mudflat near the
Mouth of Martin Pe9A channel will probably disappear, as more
developments are planned for the area.

14o

Palo Seco PeninSUla. Aerial view of area set aside for
wildlife by the municipality of Catai@o. A recreational park
occupies the base of the peninsula.

141

riVI

Buchanan Pond. This small privately owned artificial lake is
located within the Buchanan Army Reserve. Ruddy ducks nest in
small numbers in the surrounding vegetation.

142

San Pedro Swamp. This large, mostly freshwater swamp, can be
made more attractive -for waterfowl by creating open water
areas.

A dirt road crosses the swamp through cattail and mangrove
stands in the north-central secti,on. Shorebirds forage on
these short-lived open water areas after heavy rainfall.

143

Lake Mata. Redonda at Hyatt Dorado Beach Hotel. Housing
development near its margins contribute to its degradation as a
wildlife area.

144

Cibuco Swamp. Reduction of wildlife habitat is often the
result of draining of wetlands for agricultural uses, such as
cattle grazing.

145

Puerto Nuevo Lagoon. Formerly an excellent wildlife locality,
this small lagoon is currently degraded and encroached to th@
extreme. No open water is available, as the lagoon is choked
with cattails. Utilities, recreation areas and housing around
the area make restoration of this area unlikely.

146

J7
NA

Carrizales Mangrove. A large diameter storm sewer pipe
discharges into the mangrove. Changes in water regime and
sedimentation may affect vegetation composition in the area.

147

4
YAK
r, Y

Guajataca Cliffs- East. A recreative area was built after 1979
near cliffs where tropicbirds nest. Birds continue to use the
area despite increased disturbance.

148

Bellaca Cree@---.. The Puerto Rican Crested Toad was found
breeding in this area after 1979. The creek. bed is
covered by mature me-sic vegetation, however
the area is Surrounded by PaStUrelands.

149

Cayures Lagoon. Open water interspersed with aquatic
vegetation provides excellent habitat +or rare water+owl, such
as the West Indian Whistling, Ruddy and Masked ducks.

150

Cueva Lagoon. Small shallow ponds in this area are frequently
used by migratory and native waterfowl. It is a popular
hunting grounds.

CUeva Laqoon after an extraordinary amount of rainfall.
Dramatically fluctuating water levels may have an effect on
wildlife use Of this area.

151

. ......................

Guaniquilla Lagoons. The smaller of these lagoons dries up
during the drier months of the year. They Support a large
variety of resident and migratory wading and shorebirds.

152

Boquerbn Re+uge. Although primarily managed for hunting, open
areas and shallow ponds between mangrove stands are used by a
wide variety of wildlife.

153

Cabo Rojo Saltflats. Mangrove trees invading a saltflat near
the Cabo Rojo lighthouse. The threatened Least Tern and the
Snowy Plover breed elsewhere in this area.

Tropicbirds nest on cliffs around the Cabo Rojo lighthouse.
Brown Pelicans forage in the small bay in the foreground.

154

GuAnica Lagoon. Al though drai ned f or, agr i CUI tUre i nthe
1950's, this area becomes flooded during periods of heavy rains
attracting large numbers of wading birds.

155

Caracoles Cay. Recreational use Of this remote islet should be
organized to minimize disturbance to a heron breeding colony
and a roost of the easily disturbed Magnificent Frigatebird.

156

Aii

La Pandura mountain range. Large boulders are the most important
habitat for the narrowly distributed Guaj6n (Eleutherodactylus
cooki.), which thrive in dark crevices underneath them.

157

vdL

Roosevelt Roads Naval Base. Breeding of the Yellow-shOUldered
Blac@:-.bird in this area has decreased to alarming levels.
Resident and migrant waterfowl occur in this pond.

15e

Fajardo Coastline. Development of marinas, on the increase in
the eastern end of the Island, degrades important habitat for the
West Indian Manatee. Boat-manatee collisions become more likely
with increased boat traffic.

159

4@ '414,

Fajardo Cordillera. Shorebirds, Black-necked Stilts,@and
Bahama Ducks occur on this small lagoon in Icacos Island.
Seabirds breed in several islets in this chain.

160

Alk 'L

CiL!znaga Baja. The Mi*Ki-Miai sector of Ci6naga Baja is a
popular hunting grounds. It supports large numbers of Common
Moorhen, resident and migrant waterfowl, and herons.

Open water areas interspersed with aquatic vegetation are
ideally suited for a variety of waterfowl.

161

7177
% -

Flamenco Lagoon. Bahama Ducks remain in the lagoon even though
large areas dry up seasonally. This lagoon also supports large
numbers of the Ruddy Duck and migrant waterfowl.

The improvement of recreational facilities at Flamenco Beach
and construction of additional housing near the lagoon increase
human disturbance to wildlife.

162

Flamenco Peninsula. Large numbers of Sooty and Bridled terns
nest near Punta Molinos each year during the Summer months.

163

Resaca Beach. Difficult human access and a cattle--exclt..tding
fence promote survival Of Sea turtles in this beach. The
foreground shows habitat of the Culebra Giant Anole in Resaca
MOUntai n.

164

Puerto Del Manglar. Brown Pelicans roost in the mangrove area
in the 4oreground. Construction o+ housing uphill +rom the
mangrove may increase sedimentation rates.

165

20 M,;

Culebra Islets. Large numbers of terns nest in several cays.
Cayo Yerba is shown. Tropicbirds, boobies, and doves breed in
this wildlife area of primary importance.

166

'F
Ar.
f -J,

West End of Vieques. Mangrove death has resulted in Boca
Quebrada lagoon due to the closing of the channel that connects
it to the ocean by heavy seas. The West Indian Whistling Duck
was reported from this area before death of the vegetation
occurred.

167

Mona Island. The endemic subspecies of the Yellow-shouldered
Blackbird nests in crevices on these cliffs. Sooty Terns nest
on inaccessible boulders near ocean level.

169

Monito Island. One of the few breeding colonies of Magnificent
Frigatebirds is located in this Island. Monito SUpports a wide
variety of seabirds and the endemic Monito Geck:o.
L

169

SCIENTIFIC AND COMMON NAMES OF SPECIES MENTIONED IN THE TEXT

Birds

Phaeton lepturus White-tailed Tropicbird
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican
Sula leucogaster Brown Booby
Sula dactylatra Masked Booby
Sula sula Red-footed Booby
Fregata magnificens Magnificent frigatebird
Larus atricilla Laughing Gull
Sterna doualli Roseate Tern
Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern
Sterna antillarum Least Tern
Sterna maxima Royal Tern
Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern
Anous stolidus Noddy Tern
Ardea herodias Great Blue Heron
Butorides striatus Green-backed Heron
Florida caerulea Little Blue Heron
Bubuicus ibis Cattle Egret
Casmerodius albus Great Egret
Egretta thula Snowy Egret
Hydranassa tricolor Tricolored Heron
Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night Heron
Nyctanassa violacea Yellow-crowned Night Heron
Ixobrichus exilis Least Bittern
Botaurus lentiginosus American Bittern
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis
Phoenicopterus ruber American Flamingo
Charadrius semipalmatus Semipalmated Plover
Charadrius alexandrinus Snowy Plover
Charadrius melodus Piping Plover
Charadrius wilsonia Wilson's Plover
Charadrius vociferus Killdeer
Pluvialis dominica American Golden Plover
Pluvialis Sguatarola Black-bellied Plover
Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone
Capella gallinago Common Snipe
Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel
Actitis macularia Spotted Sandpiper
Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper
Tringa flavipes Lesser Yellowlegs
Tringa melanoleuca Greater Yellowlegs

170

Calidris pusilla Semipalmated Sandpiper
Haemaopus ostralegus American Oystercatcher
Hymantopus mexicanus Black-necked Stilt
Rallus longirostris Clapper Rail
Porzana carolina Sora Rail
Porzana flaviventer Yellow-breasted Crake
Parphyryla martinica Purple Gallinule
Gallinula chloropus Common moorhen
Fulica americana American Coot
Fulica caribaea Caribbean Coot
Jacana spinosa Spiny Jacana
Podylimbus podiceps Pied-billed Grebe
Tachibaptus dominicus Least Grebe
Phalacrocorax auritus Double-crested Cormorant
Dendrocygna arborea West Indian Whistling Duct
Dendrocygna autumnalis Black-bellied Whistling Duct
Dandrcyna bicolor Fulvous Whistling Duct
Anas platyrhynchos Mallard
Anas rubripes Black Duct
Anas bahamensis Bahama Duct
Anas crecca Green-winged Teal
Anas acuta Pintail
Anas discors Blue-winged Teal
Anas americana American Wigeon
Aythya collaris Ring-necked Duck
Aythya affinis Lesser Scaup
Oxyura amaicensis Ruddy Duck
oxyur dominica Masked Duck
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed Hawk
Pandion halietus Osprey
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon
Otus nudipes newtoni Newton's Owl
Asio flammeLts Short-eared Owl
Columba leucocephala White-crowned Pigeon
Columba squamosa Scaly-naped Pigeon
Columba inornata Puerto Rican Plain Pigeon
Zenaida macroura Mourning Dove
Zenaida aurita Zenaida Dove
Zenaida asiatica White-winged Dove
Geotrygon montana Ruddy uail Dove
Geotrygon chrysia Key West uail Dove
Caprimulaus noctitherus Puerto Rican Nightiar
Chordeiles aundlachii West Indian Nighthawk
Sericotes holosericeus Green-throated Carib
orthorhyacus cristatus Antillean Crested Hummingbird
Todus meicanus Puerto Rican Tody
Elaenia martinica Caribbean Elaenia
Parula americana Northern Parula
Dendroica petechia Yellow Warbler
Agelaius anthomus Yellow-shouldered Blackbird

171

Quiscalus niger Greater Antillean Grackle
Molothrus bonariensis Glassy Cowbird

Reptiles and Amphibians

Eleutherodactylus cooki Puerto Rican Cavern Coqui
Eleutherodactylus cochranae Whistling Coqui
Eleutherodactylus monensis Mona Coqui
Peltophryne lemur Puerto Rican Crested Toad
Anolis cooki Puerto Rican Dryland Anole
Anolis cuvieri Puerto Rican Giant Anole
Anolis monensis Mona Anole
Anolis roosevelti Culebra Giant Anole
Chrysemis decusata Antillean Painted Turtle
Dermochelis coriacea Leatherback sea turtle
Chelonia mydas Green sea turtle
Caretta,caretta Loggerhead
Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill sea turtle
Sphaerodactylus microphitecus Monito Gecko
Sphaerodactylus monensis Mona Island Geco
Ameiba alboguttata Teid Lizard
Cayman crocodylus Spectacled Cayman
Alsophis portoricensis Puerto Rican Ground Snake
Epicrates monensis monensis Mona Island Boa
Epicrates monensis granti Virgin Island's Tree Boa
Epicrates inornatus Puerto Rican Boa

Mammals

Trichechus manatus West Indian Manatee

172

COMMON AND SCIENTIFIC NAMES OF THREATENED AND ENDANGERED FAUNA
MENTIONED IN THE TEXT

Birds

Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican (FE)
Sterna dougalli Roseate Tern (FT)
Sterna antillarum Least Tern (CT)
Charadrius alexandrinus Snowy Plover (CT)
Charadrius melodus Piping Plover (FT)
Porzana flaviventer Yellow-breasted Crake (CT)
Fulica caribaea Caribbean Coot (CT)
Tachibaptus dominicus Least Grebe (CT)
Dendrocygna arborea West Indian Whistling Duck (CT)
Oxyura jamaicensis, Ruddy Duck (CT)
Oxyura dominica Masked Duck (CT)
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon (FE)
Columba inornata Puerto Rican Plain Pigeon (EF)
Caprimulus noctitherus Puerto Rican Nightiar (FE)
Agelaius xanthomus Yellow-Shouldered Blackbird (FE)

Reptiles and Amphibians

Peltophryne lemur Puerto Rican Crested Toad (FT)
Anolis cooki Puerto Rican Dryland Anole (CT)
Anolis roosevelti Culebra Giant Anole (FE)
Dermochelis coriacea Leatherback sea turtle (FE)
Chelonia mydas Green sea turtle (FE)
Caretta caretta Loggerhead (FE)
Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill Sea turtle (FE)
Sphaeodactvlus microphitecus Monito Gecko (FE)
Epicrates monensis monensis, Mona Island Boa (FT)
Epicrates monensis granti Virgin Island's Tree Boa (FE)
Epicrates inornatus Puerto Rican Boa (FE)

Mammals

Trichechus manatus West Indian Manatee (FE)

CT : Commonwealth-listed Threatened
FT : Federally-listed Threatened
FE : Federally-listed Endangered

173

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