Culebra Wildlife

Culebra Wildlife is very unique and special. Culebra is host to the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge which is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Compromising almost 1,500 acres, including many cay and outlying rocks, the Refuge is home to may seabirds and endangered species.

From May to September, nesting colonies of may different species of terns, boobys, gulls and tropic birds can be found on Culebra and it’s surrounding cays.

Culebra is known for it’s wonderful birding, and many renowned ornithologists have done research in the Refuge. Culebra serves as nesting areas of several endangered turtle species.

Mount Resaca preserves a large area of dry subtropical forest and is home to many orchids and bromeliads along with diverse bird and reptile species. The Culebra giant Anole, in the lizard family, is believed to survive in this area.

Culebra mangroves from a unique protective barrier and habitat for the island and is vital for coastal wildlife. Small fish and crustaceans thrive in the extensive mangroves which attract larger species of fish and birds to feed off the rich waters. The endangered brown pelican can be found living in the mangroves as do varied marine life and their nurseries. Ensenada Honda and the surrounding waters have phosphorescent qualities (best seen on moonless nights) partly because of the mangroves serving as a filter and buffer from runoff sediments from land deforestation and development.

All visitors to the Refuge should first check on current access regulations and any special permitting required and any special permitting required at the Culebra Refuge office located at Lower Camp on the far side of the bay.

Much of Flamenco Peninsula and several other areas were sites of extensive bombing by the U.S. Military, and unexploded ordinance are present Please pay attention to any signage, stay out of prohibited areas, and stay on existing roads and trails.

Please do not touch coral at any time as reefs are extremely fragile ecosystems and take hundreds of years for regrowth. Coral collecting, dead or alive is strictly prohibited. Littering and fires are prohibited at any time, and to protect wildlife, no domestic animals may be brought onto refuge lands.

More Bad News for Culebras few remaining leatherback sea turtle Populations

Questions about Culebra Wildlife? Check our forum for an answer, or ask us a question.

We’d be happy to help you make the most out of your stay on Isle Culebra! We invite you to Find Us on Facebook. Be a part of our community where you can learn from others and share your experiences. You can also ask us questions in Our Facebook Discussions.