Refuge Facts
- Established: 1974
- Acres: 1,836
- Administered under Caribbean Islands NWR office.
Natural History
- The refuge lies along the coastal plain of southwestern Puerto Rico. This land had been in agricultural use for at least two centuries prior to Service ownership. Heavy grazing left the area barren except for a limited number of trees in drainage's and near homesteads.
- At present, the refuge is approximately 65 percent forest/ scrub and 35 percent grassland.
- Over 245 plants and 145 bird species have been identified on the Refuge.
Refuge Objectives
- To restore and enhance native wildlife and plants, particularly the endangered yellow-shouldered blackbird.
- To increase the level of environmental awareness among residents and visitors.
- To protect one of the most important shorebird habitats in the Caribbean.
Management Tools
- Fuel Management
- Reforestation
- Law Enforcement
- Environmental education
Public Use Opportunities
- Visitor center/contact station
- Hiking Trails
- Wildlife observation and nature photography
- Audio/Visual Room with Refuge presentation
- Interactive Displays
- Cactus Garden
- Greenhouse and Nursery
- Bike Trail
- Interpretive Center (administered by Friends Organization)
Mission:
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's mission is, working with others, to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are the only agency of the U.S. Government with that primary mission. The Service helps protect a healthy environment for people, fish and wildlife, and helps Americans conserve and enjoy the outdoors and our living treasures. The Service's major responsibilities are for migratory birds, endangered species, certain marine mammals, and freshwater and anadromous fish.
