The Birds and Wildlife of El Yunque

Our Bed and Breakfast lies on the edge of El Yunque National Forest, whose name is believed to derive from the Taíno spirit Yukiyú, associated with the mountains. Often called the “Forest of Clouds,” the rainforest is known for the mist that gently surrounds its peaks.

Covering approximately 11,300 hectares (28,000 acres), El Yunque protects one of the largest remaining tracts of native forest in Puerto Rico. It is home to more than 240 species of trees, hundreds of additional plant species, and numerous endemics found nowhere else in the world. Lush vegetation, vibrant orchids and bromeliads, and rich birdlife give the forest the feeling of a vast tropical greenhouse.

Four distinct forest types are shaped by elevation and climate: Lower Montane (Tabonuco) Forest, Upper Montane (Colorado) Forest, Palm Forest, and Elfin Woodland. At approximately 780 feet above sea level, our inn lies within the Tabonuco Forest, dominated by the towering Dacryodes excelsa, a canopy tree that can reach nearly 100 feet in height.

Blending naturally into this rainforest setting, our inn offers a peaceful place to observe birds at close range. More than 350 bird species have been recorded in Puerto Rico, including 17 endemic species. Fruit trees, heliconias, orchids, and bromeliads on our property attract hummingbirds, friendly bananaquits, and the endemic Puerto Rican lizard cuckoo.

The best chance to experience the rainforest’s vibrant birds and wildlife is from daybreak through the early morning hours, between 6:00 and 9:00 a.m., when the forest is at its most active. For guests who enjoy exploring, a hike along our property trail leading to a waterfall offers another opportunity to observe wildlife while immersed in the natural sounds of the jungle.

As evening falls, nature offers a different kind of music. The chorus of the Eleutherodactylus coqui, commonly known as the coquí, fills the air. Endemic to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, these small frogs are known for their distinctive two-note call, “co-quí,” one of the island’s most recognizable sounds.

Nearby nature walks, dense rainforest, colorful tropical flowers, and breathtaking waterfalls inspire artists, photographers, and anyone who finds joy in the beauty of the natural world, making each stay a unique experience for wildlife and nature lovers alike.

The following list presents bird species which can be seen regularly from our accommodation. 

ANTILLEAN EUPHONIA (Euphonia musica)

PUERTO RICAN LIZARD CUCKOO (Saurothera vieilloti)

RED-LEGGED THRUSH (Turdus plumbeus)

PUERTO RICAN WOODPECKER (Melanerpes portoricensis)

PUERTO RICAN BULLFINCH (Loxigilla portoricensis)

BLACK-WHISKERED VIREO (Vireo altiloquus)

Birding Tours

Birding Puerto Rico offers expertly guided birding tours throughout the island, sharing more than three decades of local experience in Puerto Rico’s remarkable bird habitats. Guests can choose from half day and full day excursions, as well as fully inclusive multi-night birding packages designed to suit every level of interest. Whether you are a casual nature lover, wildlife photographer, or dedicated birder, their tours are thoughtfully planned to showcase the very best of the island’s birdlife.

Their all inclusive birding experiences range from three day programs focused on endemic and Caribbean specialty species to week long journeys that explore mountain forests, coastal plains, and renowned birding locations across Puerto Rico. Packages include expert guiding, comfortable accommodations, daily meals, transportation, and outstanding opportunities to observe the island’s unique endemic birds.

Whether you are new to birding or looking for a deeper exploration of Caribbean birdlife, these immersive experiences offer an unforgettable way to discover Puerto Rico’s vibrant wildlife and natural beauty.

To reserve your tour or learn more, contact Birding Puerto Rico directly:
📞 (787) 530-8311
🌐 Visit their website