El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque National Forest, located in northeastern Puerto Rico, is the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. Spanning over 28,000 acres, it is a treasure trove of biodiversity, boasting an incredible array of flora and fauna that is unmatched in the United States. The forest's unique tropical environment is home to a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. The forest's canopy is dominated by the majestic tabonuco tree, while the understory is characterized by a lush tapestry of ferns, orchids, and bromeliads. Numerous animal species, many of them endemic to Puerto Rico, live in the El Yunque National Forest. Among the many inhabitants of El Yunque are several species of frogs, including the colorful coquí, whose melodic chirping is a distinctive feature of the forest's soundscape. The forest floor is also home to a variety of reptiles, such as the Puerto Rican Boa, a non-venomous snake found nowhere else in the world. Birdwatchers flock to El Yunque to catch a glimpse of the island's vibrant avifauna, including the critically endangered Puerto Rican Parrot, one of the rarest birds in the world, and the Puerto Rican Broad-Winged Hawk. In addition to its remarkable biodiversity, El Yunque National Forest plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of Puerto Rico. The forest helps to regulate the island's water cycle, preventing soil erosion and ensuring a steady supply of clean water for both humans and wildlife. The forest's trees also absorb carbon dioxide, mitigating the effects of climate change and supporting global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.