Puerto Rico Birding – Tips, Hotspots, & Guide

Last Updated on Mar 14 2024

Puerto Rico is one of the best places to visit if you are a serious birder. Because of its tropical environment, Puerto Rico is home to a variety of exotic species. In fact, there are 18 endemic bird species in Puerto Rico.

In this guide, learn about the top hotspots for burning in Puerto Rico, as well as tips and other information you need to know when bird watching in the area.

Top 9 Birdwatching Hotspots in Puerto Rico:

1. Cartagena Lagoon

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Cartagena Lagoon provides fantastic birding tours so you can enjoy Puerto Rican wildlife without taxing yourself too much. These birding tours occur at the Laguna Cartagena National Wildlife Refuge.

Because this is a lagoon, you are most likely to see waterfowl, aquatic, and migratory species. Since the bird groups are organized, this is perfect for individuals with limited access abilities, though active bird watchers may want something more exciting.

2. Paseo Lineal Río Bayamón

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One of the cool things about Puerto Rico is that birds and wildlife are not too far from the cities. If you are staying in San Juan, you will want to check out the Paseo Lineal Río Bayamón.

This park includes a 5-mile paved trail that follows alongside the beach and is lined with flora and fauna. Because this trail is paved, it is relatively easy to spot birds if you have minimal accessibility, but make sure to bring sunscreen and water.

3. Parque Urbano Julio Enrique Monagas

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If you are up for a more active challenge, check out the Parque Urbano Julio Enrique Monagas. This park is unique because it has a little something for everybody, ensuring your group stays entertained.

There are easy trails for individuals who need low-paced bird watching. There is also hiking, rock climbing, and more active activities for those who want something more adventurous. Although this park can get a bit loud, it’s great for groups of birdwatchers who have different interests.

4. Camuy’s Ponds

All around the area of Camuy, you will find roadside ponds. These roadside ponds are great spots for seeing waterfowl in the wild. Although these ponds aren’t the most gorgeous spots in Puerto Rico, they make for great bird watching. You can see Herons, Kingbirds, and even a Flamingo in the area.

These ponds are accessible since they are roadside, but you will have to keep an eye out. Just stop by one of the ponds whenever you pass them.

5. Guánica Dry Forest

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Guánica’s Dry Forest Is a unique spot in Puerto Rico. It offers remote beaches, hiking, bike rides, and unique bird watching. Because this forest covers so many terrains, there are over 130 bird species of different varieties.

This dry forest has a little something for everybody. Some trails are easy and paved, whereas others require you to adventure. What this means is that your entire bird-watching group can find activities that match their difficulty level.

6. El Yunque National Forest

If you are more interested in seeing the exotic side of Puerto Rico, you will need to venture into natural reserves and forests. The El Yunque National Forest is a great way to see birds in a subtropical rainforest.

This forest is located on the eastern side of the island. It is home to different species of birds and offers gorgeous trails. This forest is not super accessible, making it best for individuals who want to explore and really get their hands dirty while bird watching.

7. Humacao Nature Reserve

If you’re more interested in seeing waterfowl, you need to visit the Humacao Nature Reserve. This nature reserve is right on the waterfront, ensuring that you can see Puerto Rico’s natural waterfowl species.

You can also stay entertained with a number of water activities. You can hike, paddleboard, or kayak. In other words, this reserve will keep you entertained from the second you get there to the time you leave.

8. Cambalache State Forest

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Serious birdwatchers need to visit the Cambalache State Forest. This forest is in the central north region of the island, and it is home to the Puerto Rico Ornithological Society.

The Society is located here for many reasons. Most importantly, this area is home to many endemic species, including the Puerto Rican Woodpecker, the Puerto Rican Tody, and the Puerto Rican Bullfinch.

9. Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge Salt Flats

The last spot for serious birdwatchers in Puerto Rico is the Cabo Rojo Wildlife Refuge Salt Flats. This site is actually the first spot in the Caribbean that was created by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. This spot is maintained by BirdLife International.

You can spot many endemic shorebirds in this area. In total, there are 145 species at this refuge. Because this is a salt flat designed for preservation, accessibility is minimal in this area.

Things to Remember Birding in Puerto Rico

Bird watching in Puerto Rico is much like bird watching anywhere else. Be quiet and wear colors that blend in with the surrounding. If you draw too much attention to yourself, you will likely scare away the birds.

It’s important to always be prepared. Make sure to pack a lot of water, sunscreen, and bug spray. In many of these bird-watching areas, there is limited shade. By being prepared, you are keeping yourself safe.

Additionally, be respectful of Puerto Rico’s wildlife. Always pick up after yourself, and do not pester the animals. It’s best to leave these species be and watch quietly. Remember: the goal is always to leave the area better than you found it.

FAQ

What are Puerto Rico’s endemic species?

There are 18 endemic species of Puerto Rico, including:

What is the national bird of Puerto Rico?

The official bird of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is the Puerto Rico Spindalis, otherwise known as the Stripe-Headed Tanager. This species is endemic to Puerto Rico.

Conclusion

Now that you know some of the top spots for bird watching in Puerto Rico, it’s time to plan your trip. That being said, bird watching is great anywhere in Puerto Rico. Keep your eyes open at all times because you might see an endemic species or a bird you’ve never seen before.

Featured Image Credit; trattieritratti, Shutterstock