Animal Life
1. Leatherback Turtles
These are the largest of the five marine turtle species that nest on Puerto Rican beaches, notably on Vieques and Culebra. Unlike other turtles, which have internal skeletons, leatherbacks have bony plates covered with an external leathery skin. They feed mainly on jellyfish.
2. Sapo Conchos
These endemic toads have a long, curved snout and horned protuberances above the eyes. Once widespread, they are now restricted to the Bosque Estatal de Guánica and are threatened with extinction, partly due to competition from the toxic marine toad, introduced to the island in the 19th century to control insects.
3. Manatees
Manatees are gentle marine mammals resembling a tuskless walrus, and weigh up to half a ton (500 kg). They propel themselves with a spatulate tail and feed on aquatic vegetation. The West Indian manatee is endangered – many are killed by collisions with speedboats.
4. Ponce Anoles
These bright-green, tree-dwelling lizards are nicknamed lagarjito gigantes (giant lizards). Like all anoles, they mark their territory by extending a fan-like dewlap beneath the neck and by bobbing up and down. Keep an eye out for ponce anoles performing this comic behavior on tree trunks.
5. Coquis
These thimble-sized frogs are the nation’s unofficial mascots. Inhabiting various ecosystems, from coastal dry forest to rain-soaked El Yunque, they are more often heard than seen, thanks to their nocturnal two-note cheep – “ko-KEE”.
6. Dolphins
Several species of these endearing, sociable, and highly intelligent marine mammals swim in the ocean waters surrounding Puerto Rico. They often accompany passing boats, such as the Fajardo-Vieques ferry, and are popular in marine parks, where many are trained to perform amazing acrobatics.
7. Puerto Rican Boas
These endangered, non-venomous snakes, endemic to the island, can grow to 9 ft (3 m). They are found mostly in the karst region of Puerto Rico, where they feed on bats. In sunlight, their skin gives off an iridescent blue sheen.
8. Humpback Whales
The Mona Passage, which separates Puerto Rico and Hispaniola, is a migratory path for these marine mammals, which can grow to a staggering 50 ft (15 m). It is enthralling to see a humpback leap clear out of the ocean (for further details see Whale-Watching).
9. Bats
Puerto Rico has 13 species of bats, which represent 80 per cent of the island’s mammal species. Most live in caves and emerge at night to feed on mosquitoes, fruit, and nectar; the bulldog bat also catches fish.
10. Mona Iguanas
This species of iguana is found only on Isla Mona and can reach 3 ft (1 m) in length. Despite their dragon-like appearance, mona iguanas are harmless vegetarians. They bask in the sun to become active and live on very sparse vegetation.
