Number range CHAPTER

Number range CHAPTER

**ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT**

**Reintroduction of the Puerto Rican Parrot**

**Río Abajo Commonwealth Forest**

**Puerto Rico**

**August 2006**

**U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service**

**Río Grande Field Office**

**P.O. Box 1600**

**Río Grande, PR 00745**

**Phone: (787) 887-8769**

**Fax: (787) 887-7512**

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

[**SECTION I - PURPOSE AND NEED FOR PROPOSED ACTION**
1](#__RefHeading___Toc135730934)

[1.1 PURPOSE 1](#__RefHeading___Toc135730935)

[1.2 NEED 1](#__RefHeading___Toc135730936)

[1.3 REQUIRED DECISIONS 2](#__RefHeading___Toc135730937)

[1.4 BACKGROUND 2](#__RefHeading___Toc135730938)

[**SECTION II - ALTERNATIVES** 3](#__RefHeading___Toc135730939)

[2.1 ALTERNATIVES NOT CONSIDERED FOR DETAILED ANALYSIS
3](#__RefHeading___Toc135730940)

[2.1.1 -- Create a second population within the Caribbean National
Forest 3](#__RefHeading___Toc135730941)

[2.2 ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED IN DETAIL 3](#__RefHeading___Toc135730942)

[2.2.1 Alternative A -- No Action 4](#__RefHeading___Toc135730943)

[2.2.3 Alternative C -- Reintroduce Puerto Rican Parrots in the
Guajataca Forest 4](#__RefHeading___Toc135730944)

[2.2.4 Alternative D -- Reintroduce Puerto Rican Parrots in the
Cambalache Forest 4](#__RefHeading___Toc135730945)

[**SECTION III - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT** 4](#__RefHeading___Toc135730946)

[3.1 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS 4](#__RefHeading___Toc135730947)

[3.1.1 Location 4](#__RefHeading___Toc135730948)

[3.1.2 Geomorphic/Physiographic 5](#__RefHeading___Toc135730949)

[3.1.3 Soils 5](#__RefHeading___Toc135730950)

[3.1.4 Climate and Hydrology 5](#__RefHeading___Toc135730951)

[3.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT 6](#__RefHeading___Toc135730952)

[3.2.1 Habitat/Vegetation 6](#__RefHeading___Toc135730953)

[3.2.3 Other Wildlife Species 7](#__RefHeading___Toc135730954)

[3.3 LAND USE 7](#__RefHeading___Toc135730955)

[3.4 CULTURAL/PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES 7](#__RefHeading___Toc135730956)

[3.5 LOCAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS 8](#__RefHeading___Toc135730957)

[**SECTION IV - IMPACTS ANALYSIS** 8](#__RefHeading___Toc135730958)

[4.1 ALTERNATIVE A -- NO ACTION 8](#__RefHeading___Toc135730959)

[4.1.1 Habitat Impacts 9](#__RefHeading___Toc135730960)

[4.1.2 Biological Impacts 9](#__RefHeading___Toc135730961)

[4.1.3 Listed Species and Trust Resources
9](#__RefHeading___Toc135730962)

[4.1.4 Predator Control Impacts 9](#__RefHeading___Toc135730963)

[4.1.5 Public Use and Landowner Impacts 9](#__RefHeading___Toc135730964)

[4.2 ALTERNATIVE B -- Reintroduce Puerto Rican Parrots in the Río Abajo
Forest (PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE) 9](#__RefHeading___Toc135730965)

[4.2.1 Habitat Impacts 10](#__RefHeading___Toc135730966)

[4.2.2 Biological Impacts 10](#__RefHeading___Toc135730967)

[4.2.3 Listed Species and Trust Resources
10](#__RefHeading___Toc135730968)

[4.2.4 Predator Control Impact 10](#__RefHeading___Toc135730969)

[4.2.5 Public Use and Landowner Impacts
11](#__RefHeading___Toc135730970)

[4.3 ALTERNATIVE C -- Release Puerto Rican Parrots in the Guajataca
Forest 11](#__RefHeading___Toc135730971)

[4.3.1 Habitat Impacts 11](#__RefHeading___Toc135730972)

[4.3.2 Biological Impacts 11](#__RefHeading___Toc135730973)

[4.3.3 Listed Species and Trust Resources
12](#__RefHeading___Toc135730974)

[4.2.4 Predator Control Impact 12](#__RefHeading___Toc135730975)

[4.2.5 Public Use and Landowner Impacts
12](#__RefHeading___Toc135730976)

[4.4 ALTERNATIVE D -- Release Puerto Rican Parrots in the Cambalache
Forest 12](#__RefHeading___Toc135730977)

[4.3.1 Habitat Impacts 13](#__RefHeading___Toc135730978)

[4.3.2 Biological Impacts 13](#__RefHeading___Toc135730979)

[4.3.3 Listed Species and Trust Resources
13](#__RefHeading___Toc135730980)

[4.2.4 Predator Control Impact 13](#__RefHeading___Toc135730981)

[4.2.5 Public Use and Landowner Impacts
13](#__RefHeading___Toc135730982)

[**SECTION V - LITERATURE CITED** 15](#__RefHeading___Toc135730983)

[**SECTION VI - LIST OF PREPARERS** 18](#__RefHeading___Toc135730984)

[**SECTION VII - CONSULTATION AND COORDINATION**
19](#__RefHeading___Toc135730985)

[**SECTION VIII -- LIST OF AGENCIES, INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS
CONSULTED:** 20](#__RefHeading___Toc135730986)

[**SECTION IX -- LIST OF ALL FEDERAL, STATES AND LOCAL LAWS AND
PERMITS:** 21](#refheading___toc135730987)

[**APPENDIX I** Map of Puerto Rico showing the location of the Río Abajo
Forest. 23](#__RefHeading___Toc135730988)

[**APPENDIX II: STANDARD OPERATIONS PROTOCOLS**
24](#__RefHeading___Toc135730989)

[A. **BANDING** 24](#__RefHeading___Toc135730990)

[**B** **WILD NEST MONITORING** 26](#__RefHeading___Toc135730991)

[**C** **TRANSFERRING EGG(S) AND/OR CHICK(S) FROM FIELD TO AVIARY OR
VICE VERSA** 28](#refheading___toc135730992)

[D. **WILD NEST INSPECTION** 30](#__RefHeading___Toc135730993)

[**APPENDIX III:** Typical haystack hill formations characteristic of
the Puerto Rican northern karst region 33](#__RefHeading___Toc135730994)

[**APPENDIX IV:** Federally endangered and threatened species present in
the Northern Karst Region of Puerto Rico
34](#__RefHeading___Toc135730995)

[**APPENDIX V**: Flow chart listing the various studies and sources of
information used to evaluate potential release sites, including the Río
Abajo Forest Reserve, and to develop a reintroduction plan to establish
the second wild population of Puerto Rican parrots in the island. The
Río Abajo Forest (2340 ha), and surrounding forests, ranked 1 among 3
potential release sites (protected areas) in the northwestern karst
(limestone) region of Puerto Rico. 35](#__RefHeading___Toc135730996)

[**APPENDIX VI**: Predator management protocols used to protect wild
Puerto Rican parrots and their nests in the Caribbean National Forest.
36](#__RefHeading___Toc135730997)

**Reintroduction of the Puerto Rican Parrot**

**Río Abajo Commonwealth Forest**

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730934 .anchor}**SECTION I - PURPOSE AND NEED
FOR PROPOSED ACTION**

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730935 .anchor}1.1 PURPOSE

The US Fish and Wildlife Service and the Puerto Rico Department of
Natural and Envrionmental Resources plan to reintroduce the Puerto Rican
Parrot (*Amazona vittata*) at the Río Abajo Forest in the municipality
of Utuado, Puerto Rico (Appendix I). The reintroduction is a stated
recovery objective of the draft Recovery Plan for the Puerto Rican
Parrot. It is aimed at creating a second wild population in the
north-central karst region of the island to minimize the species' risk
of extinction and foster its recovery.

The purpose of this Environmental Assessment is to consider a range of
reintroduction alternatives that have been proposed, evaluated, and
discussed among concerned agencies, and to select a preferred
alternative. Alternative B is the preferred alternative, which maximizes
its ability to restore and manage the population in a portion of the
species' historic range and manage the habitat selected for
reintroduction with minimal ecological disruption. Cost-effective
reintroduction of parrots will maximize benefit to wildlife and provide
the most opportunities for public in the form of environmental education
and awareness.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730936 .anchor}1.2 NEED

The goal of this action is to help achieve the recovery of the Puerto
Rican Parrot. Specifically, the goals are to downlist and then delist
the species, and assure its long-term viability in the wild. The Puerto
Rican parrot is listed as endangered. This endemic species is the only
native parrot in the United States and it is considered one of the ten
most endangered birds in the world. Presently, 18-20 individuals survive
in the wild and are restricted to the Caribbean National Forest in
eastern Puerto Rico. Two captive population facilities hold an
additional 159 individuals: the Luquillo Aviary and the José L. Vivaldi
Aviary in eastern and west-central Puerto Rico, respectively.

The proposed action is a fundamental element of the Puerto Rican Parrot
recovery program (Lacy et al. 1989, Muiznieks 2001, FWS 2005). It
minimizes the risks of the species' extinction because it is less likely
that catastrophic events (e.g., hurricanes), and other threats (e.g.,
predation), will affect equally and simultaneously two spatially
segregated populations. The proposed action is expected to foster the
recovery of the species because parrots would be released in an
environment that should result in more vigorous population growth than
what has characterized the extant wild population at the Caribbean
National Forest over the past 35 years.

Actions needed include: 1) release of captive-reared parrots in the Río
Abajo Forest, 2) protect and manage the reintroduced population; 3)
protect and improve parrot habitat in the Río Abajo Forest; and 4) work
with private landowners and stakeholders to develop and implement short
and long term habitat conservation programs in the lands surrounding the
release area as proposed in the Draft Río Abajo Forest Management Plan
(2006).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730937 .anchor}1.3 REQUIRED DECISIONS

The Regional Director will determine whether and how to create the
biological and physical conditions necessary to restore the Puerto Rican
Parrot to its former range while protecting the ecological integrity of
the Río Abajo Forest.

The Service's decision must incorporate measures to protect related
resources if action is taken. In the meantime, any decision the Service
reaches will include avoidance and minimization measures for reasonably
foreseeable adverse impacts. The Service must coordinate and consult
with its partners, in particular, the Puerto Rico Department of Natural
and Environmental Resources who have management authority over the Río
Abajo Forest.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730938 .anchor}1.4 BACKGROUND

Once abundant and widespread throughout the Puerto Rican archipelago,
the Puerto Rican parrot (*Amazona vittata*) is presently one of the 10
most endangered birds in the world. Habitat loss together with natural
enemies is considered among the major causes for the precipitous decline
of the species during the 20th century. Currently, a single wild
population of 18-20 individuals survives in the Caribbean National
Forest (hereafter Luquillo Mountains.)

Intensive efforts to protect and recover the species started in 1968, a
year after the species was designated as endangered by the Secretary of
the Interior. In 1973, a captive rearing facility (Luquillo Aviary) was
established to prevent the immediate extinction of the species, and
later, to rear and foster chicks into wild nests to increase breeding
productivity. Given the regularity of hurricane disturbance, a second
aviary (José L. Vivaldi Aviary hereafter Vivaldi Aviary) was created in
1993 in the Río Abajo Commonwealth Forest in the limestone lowlands of
north-central Puerto Rico to safeguard the population (Lacy et al.
1989). Presently, the two aviaries shelter 220 parrots (including the
chicks produced in the 2006 breeding season).

At present, in addition to low numbers and a limited distribution, major
threats are nest competition and predation of eggs and chicks by
Pearly-eyed thrashers (*Margarops fuscatus*), predation of fledglings
and adults by Red-tailed hawks (*Buteo jamaicensis*), predation by rats
(*Rattus rattus* and *R.. norvegicus*), parasitism by warble flies
(*Philornis pici*), and the impact of hurricanes. Other threats include
competition for cavities with European and Africanized honeybees (*Apis
mellifera*). Many of the threats have been controlled through management
strategies.

The karst region of Puerto Rico, and specifically the Río Abajo Forest,
has been identified for the reintroduction of the Puerto Rican Parrot
outside the Caribbean National Forest (FWS 2005). Forests in this region
receive less precipitation, contain many of the food plant species used
by parrots, and harbor a lower density of Red-tailed Hawks (0.0023 ±
0.0005/ha) than the Caribbean National Forest ((0.0156 ± 0.0025/ha;
Cardona et al. 1986, Frank Rivera-Milán unpubl. data, Collazo and Groom
2000, Trujillo 2005). While tree nesting opportunities are not readily
available, certainly not as in the Caribbean National Forest (Cardona et
al. 1984, Thompson 2000, Trujillo 2005), crevices in the
limestone-dominated landscape and artificial nest structures offer
suitable alternatives (FWS 2005). The Río Abajo Forest offers two
additional advantages as a release site. First, it is a protected area
under governmental control, which facilitates the implementation of
recovery actions. Second, it harbors the José L. Vivaldi Aviary. Captive
birds could serve as a "surrogate" wild population providing a focal
point where released birds could converge daily while they adjust to
wild conditions, hopefully, prior to expanding their home range, or
disperse from the release area.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730939 .anchor}**SECTION II - ALTERNATIVES**

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730940 .anchor}2.1 ALTERNATIVES NOT CONSIDERED
FOR DETAILED ANALYSIS

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730941 .anchor}2.1.1 -- Create a second
population within the Caribbean National Forest

Under this alternative, the fundamental goal of the action would not be
accomplished. Specifically, create a second, spatially segregated
population of Puerto Rican Parrots. Although the creation of a second
sub-population within the Caribbean National Forest is contemplated in
the Recovery Plan of the species, its creation does not offset the
benefits accrued by spatial segregation and the environmental
characteristics (e.g., dryness) of a lowland forested area such as the
Río Abajo Forest. At present, available resources and opportunities at
the Caribbean National Forest are aimed at releasing captive-reared
birds to bolster the extant population. Actions should not be mutually
exclusive, but complementary of each other.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730942 .anchor}2.2 ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED IN
DETAIL

The alternatives under consideration include: (A) no action; (B)
reintroduce parrots in the Río Abajo Forest; (C) reintroduce parrots in
the Cambalache Forest; and (D) reintroduce parrots in the Guajataca
Forest. The alternatives are presented separately to highlight salient
strengths in terms of suitability and tradeoffs. Detailed site-specific
assessments considered for reintroduction are summarized by Trujillo
(2005).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730943 .anchor}2.2.1 Alternative A -- No Action

Under this alternative, there would be no reintroduction of parrots in
the Río Abajo Forest. Recovery activities would continue to be
restricted to the Caribbean National Forest.

2.2.2 Alternative B -- Reintroduce Puerto Rican Parrots in the Río Abajo
Forest (Preferred Alternative)

Under this alternative, the Service and the Department of Natural and
Environmental Resources would release Puerto Rican Parrots in the Río
Abajo Forest starting in the fall of 2006. Population and habitat
management would be required to foster establishment and population
growth (Appendix II, White et. al., 2005a, White and Vilella, 2004,
Snyder et. al. 1987).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730944 .anchor}2.2.3 Alternative C --
Reintroduce Puerto Rican Parrots in the Guajataca Forest

Under this alternative, the Service and the Department of Natural and
Environmental Resources would release Puerto Rican Parrots in the
Guajataca Forest. Population and habitat management would be required to
foster establishment and population growth as in Alternative B. The site
lacks the benefit of a parrot aviary within its premises.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730945 .anchor}2.2.4 Alternative D --
Reintroduce Puerto Rican Parrots in the Cambalache Forest

Under this alternative, the Service and the Department of Natural and
Environmental Resources would release Puerto Rican Parrots in the
Cambalache Forest. Population and habitat management would be required
to foster establishment and population growth as in Alternative B. The
site lacks the benefit of a parrot aviary within its premises.
Site-specific facilities (e.g., recreational) would interfere directly
with release facilities and efforts.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730946 .anchor}**SECTION III - AFFECTED
ENVIRONMENT**

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730947 .anchor}3.1 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730948 .anchor}3.1.1 Location

The Río Abajo Commonwealth Forest (18°20'N, 66°42'W), is approximately
2,340 ha and is located between Dos Bocas Lake and the Tanamá River in
the municipalities of Utuado and Arecibo (Appendix I).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730949 .anchor}3.1.2 Geomorphic/Physiographic

The Río Abajo Forest occurs within the northern karst region (Lugo et
al. 2001). The karst region covers more than 27.5 percent of the surface
of Puerto Rico. The forest has a very irregular topography, dominated by
haystack hills whose elevation can reach 350-400 m (see Appendix III).
The forest is also characterized by subterranean drainage, caves,
natural depressions or sinkholes, all typical of karst geological
developments. Formations in the reserve are dominated by
Cibao-Montebellow limestone (Tcm) and Lares (T1) limestone. The former
comprises 54% of the reserve (north, north-east, east) whereas the
remaining percent (Lares) dominates the southeast, south and western
portion of the reserve (RA Forest draft Management Plan 2006).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730950 .anchor}3.1.3 Soils

There are 19 types of soils reported for the Río Abajo Forest (DNR
2006). The most dominant belongs to the Soller-Rock outcrop complex. It
extends over 1900 ha of the reserve. This soil type is considered
inadequate for cultivation, but not so for pasture lands or forests.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730951 .anchor}3.1.4 Climate and Hydrology

The Río Abajo Forest is located in the Río Grande de Arecibo watershed.
The forest makes significant contributions (recharging) to the aquifer
located in the northern coast of the island, specifically, the lower
aquifer. The North Coast Limestone aquifer system in Puerto Rico
consists of an upper and lower aquifer separated by a confining unit and
extends from the western part of Puerto Rico to east of San Juan (Ground
Water Atlas of the United States Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the
U.S. Virgin Islands HA 730-N).

Based on a NOAA station located in the nearby Arecibo Observatory (18°
21'N; 66° 46' W), 13.7 mm of precipitation are recorded daily on average
in the area encompassing the forest reserve. The driest months of the
year are January/February through March/April. Conversely, the highest
amount of precipitation is usually recorded in May and September and
October.

Water from the forest flows into the Río Grande de Arecibo and Río
Tanamá. The Jobos Creek is the only body of surface running water
occurring in the forest. Its headwaters are located in the southern
portion of the forest, flowing into the Dos Bocas Reservoir to the
east-southeast of the reserve. Its drainage (catch) area is about 453
ha, and it runs for about 4.2 km. Other bodies of water exist within the
reserve, but they are mostly ephemeral in nature (DNR 2006).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730952 .anchor}3.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730953 .anchor}3.2.1 Habitat/Vegetation

Forests in the karst region, which includes the Río Abajo Forest, are
mostly within the Subtropical Moist Life zone (Ewel and Whitmore 1973).
According to Chinea (1980) four vegetation types occur in the karst
region. Mesic forest and dry woodland are the two major vegetation
formations, occurring at the base of mogotes and slopes or exposed tops.
The other two vegetation types are mixed woodland and cliff fringe
occurring on several slopes and at the edges of the cliff (see Chinea
1980 for details).

As of 1974, 175 species of trees, contained in 53 families, had been
reported for the forest (Little and Wadsworth 1964). Later Acevedo and
Axelrod (1999) described 1,036 forms (taxa) of flora. Of these, 878
species were natives (included 88 endemics) and 158 were exotic or
naturalized after cultivation. Families with most common species were
Euphorbiaceae, Laureaceae, Leguminosae, Myrtaceae y Rubiaceae (Lugo
et.al. 2001).

Alvarez et al. (1997) conducted an evaluation and description of the
vegetation of Río Abajo. *Prestoea montana*, the principal food for
parrots in the Caribbean National Forest, was uncommon in Río Abajo.
Many dominant tree species are potential food resources for the parrots
and include *Petitia domingensis, Calophyllum calaba, Andira inermis,
Guarea guidonia, Sideroxylon foetidissimum*. Cardona et al. (1986)
studied the phenology of 19 plant species known to be part of the diet
of parrots. They concluded that food would not be a limiting factor for
parrots in Río Abajo. Cardona et al. (1985) also estimated the natural
nest cavity availability in the forest, and concluded that nest cavities
were rare as in the Caribbean National Forest. In a more recent
vegetation study, Collazo and Groom (2000) concurred with the assertion
that the Río Abajo Forest could be a suitable habitat for the
reintroduction of parrots.

3.2.2 Threatened, Endangered, and Candidate Species

This region possesses extraordinary ecological diversity, including the
habitats of several endangered and threatened species, as well as
approximately 23% of Puerto Rico\'s endemic tree species (Lugo et al.
2001).

Four endangered avian species have been reported in the Río Abajo
Forest, namely, the Puerto Rican Sharp-shinned Hawk (*Accipiter straitus
venator*), Broad-winged Hawk (*Buteo platypterus brunnescens*), Peregrin
Falcon (*Falco peregrinus*), and the Plain Pigeon (*Columba inornata
wetmorei*). The forest also harbors the endangered Puerto Rican Boa
(Epicrates inornatus).

Twenty four plant species belonging to 21 families are considered
endangered, threatened, or vulnerable by Federal and Commonwealth
agencies (Lugo et.al. 2001). Of those, 21 plant species federally listed
as threatened or endangered are found in the Río Abajo Commonwealth
Forest and surrounding forested areas (Appendix IV).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730954 .anchor}3.2.3 Other Wildlife Species

Records indicate that 39 species of resident bird species have been
reported for the northern karst forest. Records also indicate that there
are 9 species of mammals (bats), 7 species of amphibians (mostly
*Eleutherodactylus* tree frogs), and 16 of reptiles (mostly *Anolis*
lizards).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730955 .anchor}3.3 LAND USE

The karst region represents some of the least disturbed karst habitats
remaining in the Caribbean. Economic changes, including the shift to an
industrial economy after 1940, resulted in the abandonment of
agricultural lands, and concomitantly allowed an increase in the forest
cover (Lugo et al., 2001). Although, forest reserves such as Cambalache,
Río Abajo, Vega Alta, and Guajataca have been established within this
region, protecting more of 4,000 ha, previous studies have emphasized
that the karst region is vulnerable to human activities and is suffering
radical changes (Lugo et al., 2001).

The PR Planning Zone Board has designated the Río Abajo Forest and
surrounding lands as SREP (Suelo Rustico Especialmente Protegido; DNR
2006). Lands under this designation are not foreseen or permitted to be
used for urban development due to its location, topography, or
aesthetic, archeological, ecological or natural resources value.

The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources currently
administers 2,340 ha in the Río Abajo Forest. As of 1983, land use in
the forest was distributed as follows: 1335 ha young secondary forest,
692 ha of plantations, 855 ha of dense crown forest (not deforested at
least since 1936), and about 12 ha were deforested or were used for
agriculture. Other uses of the forest include research and management
(e.g., J. L. Vivaldi Aviary) and recreation.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730956 .anchor}3.4 CULTURAL/PALEONTOLOGICAL
RESOURCES

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 requires
the Service to evaluate the effects of any of its actions on cultural
resources (historic, architectural, and archeological) that are listed
or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places
(NRHP).

The activities associated with the reintroduction project will cause
only very minor, localized soil disturbances, and will not require the
demolition or alteration of any historic buildings or structures.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730957 .anchor}

3.5 LOCAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS

The north-central karst region where the Río Abajo Commonwealth Forest
is located is one of the least populated areas in Puerto Rico. The
economic activity within the area is restricted to very small (mostly
less than 20-acre) agricultural settings scattered along the boundaries
of the area. The entire north-central karst region plays a critical role
in the protection of water and soil resources important for the adjacent
communities and the San Juan metropolitan area.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730958 .anchor}**SECTION IV - IMPACTS
ANALYSIS**

Since 1996, the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental
Resources and the US Fish and Wildlife Service have sponsored research
to determine whether the Río Abajo Forest was a suitable habitat for the
reintroduce of Puerto Rican Parrots and to develop management strategies
to foster a successful reintroduction (Collazo and Groom 2000, Appendix
V). Assessments of Río Abajo, Cambalache and Guajataca Forest Reserves
included selected habitat features (e.g., availability of food plant
species, cavity bearing trees) as well as factors such as abundance of
predators (e.g., Pearly-eyed thrasher, Red-tailed hawks; Hengstenberg
2003, Gleffe 2005, Trujillo 2005, Llerandi-Roman 2005). Other studies
have been designed to enhance food availability for parrots through
regeneration of native species and prescribed plantings (e.g., Sierra
Palm, *Prestoea Montana*, Royal Palm *Roystonea borinquena*; Inman
2005).

Releases in the karst region, specifically the Río Abajo Forest, are
possible because the biological and methodological foundation to support
the endeavor exists. Two aviaries currently support over 200 captive
birds and are capable of producing birds to support a coordinated
release program, both at Caribbean National Forest and Río Abajo.
Prospective birds for release are selected on the basis of behavioral
traits (e.g., group compatibility) and genetics (White et al. 2005b,
Haig et al. 2004). Pre-release protocols and methods to quantify the
success of releases (e.g., survival) exist (Collazo et al. 2000, 2003;
White et al. 2005b).

The following alternatives are organized around the ability to
successfully reintroduce the parrot into the selected forested areas in
the karst region.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730959 .anchor}4.1 ALTERNATIVE A -- NO ACTION

Under this alternative, the Service would cease to actively pursue
reintroducing the Puerto Rican Parrot in the Río Abajo Forest. This is
the only option that does not require human intervention and active
management of the system. This alternative is unlikely to achieve the
recovery objectives outlined in the Recovery Plan of the species, that
is, downlist and delist the species by 2020 (FWS 2005).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730960 .anchor}4.1.1 Habitat Impacts

If this alternative were selected, there would be no need to manage
habitat in the Río Abajo Forest.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730961 .anchor}4.1.2 Biological Impacts

None. Even if management for parrots were effected (e.g., enhance food
resources), other members of the resident avian community would have a
minor benefit from such actions (Collazo and Groom 2000, Inman 2005,
Trujillo 2005).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730962 .anchor}4.1.3 Listed Species and Trust
Resources

Choosing this alternative would result in a negative impact to the
Puerto Rican Parrot because the probability of extinction would not be
mitigated by the creation of a second population. This option would not
affect any other species.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730963 .anchor}4.1.4 Predator Control Impacts

There would be no need to implement management activities to control
potential parrot predators.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730964 .anchor}4.1.5 Public Use and Landowner
Impacts

If this alternative was chosen, opportunities to diversify public use
such as environmental education and interpretation, and wildlife
observation and photography would be lost.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730965 .anchor}4.2 ALTERNATIVE B -- Reintroduce
Puerto Rican Parrots in the Río Abajo Forest (PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE)

Under this alternative, the Service would minimize risks of the species'
extinction and foster the recovery of the species. The population and
habitat would be managed to increase the likelihood of a successful
reintroduction.

This alternative would require implementing many of the management
activities used in the Caribbean National Forest (Appendix II, Appendix
VI, White et. al., 2005a, White and Vilella, 2004, Snyder et. al. 1987).
Other activities include implementing forest management practices that
will promote greater availability of food resources. This action
requires that Service and US Forest Service staff assist the Puerto Rico
Department of Natural and Environmental Resources in monitoring and
managing the population and habitat throughout the year. This
alternative has the greatest likelihood of success because Río Abajo
reunite a number of desirable features for reintroduction including
year-round food resources, presence of an aviary, and management
infrastructure (Trujillo 2005).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730966 .anchor}4.2.1 Habitat Impacts

Provisioning artificial nest cavities is required to insure a successful
reintroduction. This is a management practice commonly used in the
Caribbean National Forest. Resident avian species should not be affected
by this action. Monitoring population numbers, survival and reproduction
will require maintaining (and creating) trails and setting up platforms
to facilitate the said activities. Impact of these activities on forest
resources is localized, restricted to the immediate area of the action.
The Río Abajo Forest Management Plan (DNR 2006) calls for managing
sectors of the forest for timber and habitat quality (e.g., food
resources). Habitat management (e.g., enhance food resources) would only
enhance the value of the forest to avifauna, and should not devalue its
flora. The impact of the reintroduction on timber management activities
can be minimized by maintaining the greatest distance between timber
management areas and the release area (see DNR 2006).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730967 .anchor}4.2.2 Biological Impacts

This alternative does not represent a threat and should not have a
negative impact on avifauna, resident or migratory, or on any other
biological resource. The Puerto Rican Parrot is an endemic species and
was part of the biological community in the karst region as recent as
the 1930s. The threat of disease by the reintroduction is minimized by
releasing birds after they have undergone a medical examination.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730968 .anchor}4.2.3 Listed Species and Trust
Resources

Choosing this alternative will restore an endemic species that went
locally extinct in the karst region since the 1930s. The habitat
management and protection activities related to the restoration of the
Puerto Rican parrot population may result in a positive impact to all
listed bird species. The parrot is a frugivore, and for some plants, a
disperser of seeds. This option would not affect other listed animal or
plant species.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730969 .anchor}4.2.4 Predator Control Impact

To foster a successful reintroduction and reproduction the suite of
predator control programs implemented at the Caribbean National Forest
needs to be implemented in Río Abajo (see Appendix VI). These include
rat poisoning, measures to prevent thrasher predation (e.g., nest
boxes), and Red-tailed Hawk removal. To prevent harm to non-target
species, the same procedures and safety protocols used in the Caribbean
National Forest will be adopted for the Río Abajo Forest. Poison
application (for rats) and raptor removal will require staff time for
planning and implementation.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730970 .anchor}4.2.5 Public Use and Landowner
Impacts

If this alternative is chosen, recreational activities (e.g., picnic
areas, camping) might be restricted or prohibited in areas near parrot
activity areas, or nesting areas. Restrictions and no-use zones will be
designated and posted for the public. Criteria to impose restrictions
have been defined for the Caribbean National Forest, and can be adapted
to the Río Abajo Forest. Maintenance activities (e.g., power line
corridors) could be affected if close to core parrot activity areas.
Such activities could be allowed on a seasonal basis (e.g., non-breeding
season). New/additional power line corridors or towers would not be
allowed in or in close proximity of core parrot activity areas. Public
use opportunities such as environmental education and interpretation,
and wildlife observation and photography could be maximized.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730971 .anchor}4.3 ALTERNATIVE C -- Release
Puerto Rican Parrots in the Guajataca Forest

Under this alternative, the Service would minimize risks of the species'
extinction and foster the recovery of the species. The population and
habitat would be managed to increase the likelihood of a successful
reintroduction.

This alternative would require implementing many of the management
activities used in the Caribbean National Forest (e.g., predator
control). Other activities include implementing forest management
practices that will promote greater availability of food resources. This
action requires that Service and US Forest Service staff assist the
Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources in
monitoring and managing the population and habitat throughout the year.
Guajataca is second to the Río Abajo Forest in terms of habitat
suitability as a reintroduction site. A lower suitability was
adjudicated primarily because the Guajataca Forest does not have the
presence of an aviary (Trujillo 2005).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730972 .anchor}4.3.1 Habitat Impacts

Provisioning artificial nest cavities is required to insure a successful
reintroduction. This is a management practice commonly used in the
Caribbean National Forest. Resident avian species should not be affected
by this action. Habitat management (e.g., enhance food resources), if
implemented, would only enhance the value of the forest to avifauna, and
should not devalue its flora. Monitoring population numbers, survival
and reproduction will require maintaining (and creating) trails and
setting up platforms to facilitate the said activities. Impact of these
activities on forest resources is localized, restricted to the immediate
area of the action.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730973 .anchor}4.3.2 Biological Impacts

This alternative should provide the greatest benefit to wildlife. It
does not represent a threat or should not have a negative impact on
avifauna, resident or migratory, nor on any other biological resource.
The Puerto Rican Parrot is an endemic species and was part of the
biological community in the karst region as recent as the 1930s. The
threat of disease by the reintroduction is minimized by releasing birds
after they have undergone a medical examination.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730974 .anchor}4.3.3 Listed Species and Trust
Resources

Choosing this alternative will restore an endemic species that went
locally extinct in the karst region since the 1930s, and should result
in a positive impact to all listed bird species. The parrot is a
frugivore, and for some plants, a disperser of seeds. This option would
not affect other listed animal or plant species.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730975 .anchor}4.2.4 Predator Control Impact

To foster a successful reintroduction and reproduction the range of
predator control programs in use at the Caribbean National Forest needs
to be implemented in Guajataca. These include rat poisoning, measures to
prevent thrasher predation (e.g., nest boxes), and Red-tailed Hawk
removal. To prevent harm to non-target species, the same procedures and
safety protocols used in the Caribbean National Forest shall be adopted
for the Río Abajo Forest. Poison application (for rats) and raptor
removal will require staff time for planning and implementation.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730976 .anchor}4.2.5 Public Use and Landowner
Impacts

If this alternative is chosen, recreational activities (e.g., picnic
areas, camping) might be restricted or prohibited in areas near parrot
activity areas, or nesting areas. Restrictions and no-use zones will be
designated and posted for the public, and should based on the same
criteria used in the Caribbean National Forest. Public use opportunities
such as environmental education and interpretation, and wildlife
observation and photography could be maximized.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730977 .anchor}4.4 ALTERNATIVE D -- Release
Puerto Rican Parrots in the Cambalache Forest

Under this alternative, the Service would minimize risks of the species'
extinction and foster the recovery of the species. The population and
habitat would be managed to increase the likelihood of a successful
reintroduction.

This alternative would require implementing many of the management
activities used in the Caribbean National Forest (e.g., predator
control). Other activities include implementing forest management
practices that will promote greater availability of food resources. This
action requires that Service and US Forest Service staff assist the
Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources in
monitoring and managing the population and habitat throughout the year.
Cambalache is the site with the lowest habitat suitability for a
reintroduction site. Low suitability was adjudicated because the
Guajataca Forest does not have the presence of an aviary, is embedded in
a more densely human population area, and is more fragmented (Trujillo
2005).

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730978 .anchor}4.3.1 Habitat Impacts

Provisioning artificial nest cavities is required to insure a successful
reintroduction. This is a management practice commonly used in the
Caribbean National Forest. Resident avian species should not be affected
by this action. Habitat management (e.g., enhance food resources), if
implemented, would only enhance the value of the forest to avifauna, and
should not devalue its flora. Monitoring population numbers, survival
and reproduction will require maintaining (and creating) trails and
setting up platforms to facilitate the said activities. Impact of these
activities on forest resources is localized, restricted to the immediate
area of the action.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730979 .anchor}4.3.2 Biological Impacts

This alternative should provide the greatest benefit to wildlife. It
does not represent a threat or should have a negative impact on
avifauna, resident or migratory, nor on any other biological resource.
The Puerto Rican Parrot is an endemic species and was part of the
biological community in the karst region as recent as the 1930s. The
threat of disease by the reintroduction is minimized by releasing birds
after they have undergone a medical examination.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730980 .anchor}4.3.3 Listed Species and Trust
Resources

Choosing this alternative will restore an endemic species that went
locally extinct in the karst region since the 1930s, and should result
in a positive impact to all listed bird species. The parrot is a
frugivore, and for some plants, a disperser of seeds. This option would
not affect other listed animal or plant species.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730981 .anchor}4.2.4 Predator Control Impact

To foster a successful reintroduction and reproduction the range of
predator control programs in use at the Caribbean National Forest needs
to be implemented in Cambalache. These include rat poisoning, measures
to prevent thrasher predation (e.g., nest boxes), and Red-tailed Hawk
removal. To prevent harm to non-target species, the same procedures and
safety protocols used in the Caribbean National Forest shall be adopted
in the Río Abajo Forest. Poison application (for rats) and raptor
removal will require staff time for planning and implementation.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730982 .anchor}4.2.5 Public Use and Landowner
Impacts

If this alternative is chosen, recreational activities (e.g., picnic
areas, bike paths) might be restricted or prohibited in areas near
parrot activity areas, or nesting areas. Restrictions and no-use zones
will be designated and posted for the public, and should based on the
same criteria used in the Caribbean National Forest. Public use
opportunities such as environmental education and interpretation, and
wildlife observation and photography could be maximized. These need to
be conceived and executed without impinging upon the species' biology
and habitat requirements.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730983 .anchor}**SECTION V - LITERATURE CITED**

Acevedo-Rodriguez, P. and F. S. Axelrod. 1999. Annotated checklist for
the Tracheophytes of Río Abajo Forest Reserve, Puerto Rico. Caribbean J.
Sci. 35:265-285.

Alvarez-Ruiz, M., P. Acevedo-Rodriguez, and M. Vazquez. 1997.
Quantitative description of the structure and diversity of the
vegetation in the limestone forest of Río Abajo, Arecibo-Utuado, Puerto
Rico. Acta Cientifica 11:21-66.

Cardona, J. E., M. Rivera, M. Vázquez-Otero, C. R. Laboy. 1986.
Availability of food resources for the Puerto Rican parrot and the
Puerto Rican plain pigeon in Río Abajo Forest. Puerto Rico Department of
Natural Resources, Draft Report Project No. W-10 (ES-1).

Collazo, J. A., & M. J. Groom. 2000. Avian conservation in north-central
forested habitats in Puerto Rico. Final report, Puerto Rico Dept. of
Natural and Environmental Resources, Federal Aid Project W-20, San Juan,
Puerto Rico.

Collazo, J. A., F. J. Vilella, T. H. White, and S. Guerrero. 2000.
Survival, use of habitat, and movement of captive-reared Hispaniolan
parrots released in historical, occupied habitat: implications for the
recovery of the Puerto Rican parrot. Final Report. North Carolina
Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit. Raleigh, NC.

Collazo, J. A., T. H. White, F. J. Vilella, and S. Guerrero. 2003.
Survival of captive-reared Hispaniolan Parrots released in Parque
Nacional del Este, Dominican Republic. Condor 105: 198-207.

Number range CHAPTERChinea, J. D. 1980. The forest vegetation of the
limestone hills of northern Puerto Rico. M.S. thesis, Cornell
University, Ithaca, New York, USA.

Departamento de Recursos Naturales. 2006. Plan de Manejo Forestal y Vida
Silvestre del Bosque Estatal de Río Abajo (Borrador). Depto. Recursos
Naturales, San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Ewel, J.J. and J.L. Whitmore. 1973. The ecological life zones of Puerto
Rico and the US Virgin Islands. Forest Service Research Paper ITF-18.
USDA Forest Service, Institute of Tropical Forestry, Río Piedras, PR.

Gleffe, J. D. 2005. Avian conservation in north-central Puerto Rico:
assessing the conservation value of shaded coffee plantations and the
influence of location and habitat on nest predation rates. M.S. Thesis,
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Haig, S. M., J. Collazo, H. Draheim, and S. Daniels. 2004. Population
structure and pedigree definition in captive and wild Puerto Rican
Parrots (*Amazona vittata*). Conservation Genetics. Report to USFWS-Río
Grande Field Office and the PR Department of Natural and Environmental
Resources.

Hengstenberg, D. W. 2003. Reproductive biology, abundance, and movement
patterns of the Puerto Rican Broad-winged Hawk in a limestone forest of
Puerto Rico. M.S. Thesis, Mississippi State University, Mississippi.

Inman, F. 2005. Canopy removal and recruitment of important food plants
for the endangered Puerto Rican Parrot. M.S. Thesis, North Carolina
State University, Raleigh.

Lacy, R. C., N. R. Flesness, and U. S. Seal. 1989. Puerto Rican Parrot
population viability analysis. Captive Breeding Specialist Group, Apple
Valley, MN 55124. FWS Cooperative Agreement 14-16-0004-89-927.

Little, E.L., & Wadsworth, F.H. 1964. Common trees of Puerto Rico and
the Virgin Islands. Agriculture Handbook No. 249 Department of
Agriculture, Washington, D.C.

Lugo, A.E., L.M. Castro, A. Vale, T.D.M. López, E.H. Prieto, A.G.
Martinó, A.R.P. Rolón, A.G. Tossas, D.A. McFarlane, T. Miller, A.
Rodríguez, J. Lundberg, J. Thomlinson, J. Colón, J.H. Schellekens, O.
Ramos, and E. Helmer. 2001. Puerto Rican Karst-A Vital Resource. USDA
Forest Service, San Juan, PR.

Llerandi-Roman, I. 2005. Red-tailed Hawk home range, habitat use, and
activity patterns in moist limestone forest proposed for the
reintroduction of the Puerto Rican Parrot. M.S. Thesis, Mississippi
State University, Mississippi.

Muiznieks, B. D. 2003. Population viability analysis of the Puerto Rican
Parrot: an evaluation of its current status and prognosis for recovery.
M.S. Thesis, North Carolina State University.

Snyder, N. F. R., J. W. Wiley, and C. B. Kepler. 1987. The parrots of
Luquillo. West. Found. Vert. Zool., Los Angeles.

Trujillo, A. M. 2005. Assessment of the suitability of the northern
karst region of Puerto Rico for the reintroduction of the Puerto Rican
Parrot (Amazona vittata). M.S. Thesis, University of Puerto Rico,
Mayagüez Campus.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2005. Technical/Agency Draft Revised
Recovery Plan for the Puerto Rican Parrot (*Amazona vittata*). Atlanta,
Georgia.

###### 

White, T.H., Jr., and F. J. Vilella. 2004. Nest Management for the
Puerto Rican parrot (*Amazona vittata*): Gaining the technological edge.
Ornitología Neotropical 15:467-476.

White, T.H., Jr., W. Abreu-González, M. Toledo-González, and P.
Torres-Báez. 2005a. From the field: Artificial nest cavities for
*Amazona* parrots. Wildlife Society Bulletin 33:756-760.

White, T. H., Jr., J. A. Collazo, and F. J. Vilella. 2005b. Survival of
captive-reared Puerto Rican Parrots released in the Caribbean National
Forest. Condor 107:426-434.

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730984 .anchor}**SECTION VI - LIST OF
PREPARERS**

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Río Grande Field Office prepared
this Environmental Assessment, with assistance from the Ecological
Services Caribbean Field Office, the Southeast Regional Office, and the
Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources. The
primary author was Fernando Núñez-García (Río Grande Field Office
Supervisor).

**Fernando Nuñez-García**

Río Grande Field Office

Calle García de la Noceda

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, 00745

P.O. Box 1600

Río Grande, Puerto Rico 00745

**Edwin Muñiz**

Ecological Services Caribbean Field Office

Carr. 301 Km. 5.1, Corozo Ward

Boquerón, Puerto Rico, 00622

P.O. Box 491

Boquerón, Puerto Rico, 00622

**Marisel López Flores**

Río Grande Field Office

Calle García de la Noceda

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, 00745

**Richard Warner**

Staff Archeologist (Review and coordination)

Southeast Regional Office

1875 Century Blvd.

NE Suite 400

Atlanta, Georgia, 30345

**Miguel A. García-Bermúdez**

Department of Natural and Environmental Resources

Terrestrial Resources Division

P.O. Box 9066600

Puerta de Tierra Station, Puerto Rico, 00906-6600

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730985 .anchor}**SECTION VII - CONSULTATION AND
COORDINATION**

This Environmental Assessment was prepared in accordance with the
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). It is consistent with
the NEPA-compliance procedures contained in the Service's manual (550 FW
1-3), and employs a systematic, interdisciplinary approach.

An Intra-Service Section 7 consultation was completed in compliance with
the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The findings of this consultation were
that no endangered bird species would be negatively affected by the
proposed action.

Pursuant to Executive Order 12898 (Environmental Justice for Minority
Populations), the Service has determined that the Preferred Alternative
will not result in disproportionately high and adverse human health or
environmental impacts on minority and low-income populations.

Other Federal and state issues reviewed for compliance for the proposed
action include, but are not limited to Archeological and Historic
Preservation Act of 1974; Executive Order 13186 (Protection of Migratory
Birds).

On April 21 2005 an information table was set up at the Arecibo campus
at the University of Puerto Rico. Over 76 students and professors were
informed of the proposed parrot release at the nearby Rio Abajo Forest.
On May 5, 2005 an all-day workshop was held at the Rio Abajo Forest
Information Center. In attendance there were multiple community leaders
as well as educators and law enforcement agents from the Ponce and
Arecibo District Offices of the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and
Environmental Resources. Representatives from the following
organizations were also present: Ciudadanos Del Karso, Ciudadanos en
Defensa Del Ambiente, and Organización Para la Promoción y el Desarrollo
Humano Inc.

The Service met also with representatives and members of local
communities at the Comunidad de Jobos Community Center, Rio Arriba,
Arecibo (November 15, 2005). Forty participants assisted the informal
meeting including representatives for the NGOs that attended May 5
workshop and representatives for the following organizations: The Puerto
Rico Conservation Trust, Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña (SOPI),
and Aministración para el Adiestramiento de Futuros Empresarios y
Trabajadores (AAFET). The proposed action was described and also helped
clarify which alternatives were considered, and which alternative would
be most beneficial. Transcripts are available in the Rio Grande Field
Office and Ecological Service Caribbean Field Office (See list of
preparers for addresses).

[]{.mark}

This environmental assessment will be available at the web page
[http://www.fws.gov/southeast/prparrot](http://www.fws.gov/southeast/prparrot )
or at the Service Río Grande Field Office, Calle Garcia de la Noceda
#38, Río Grande Puerto Rico 00745

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730986 .anchor}**SECTION VIII -- LIST OF
AGENCIES, INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS CONSULTED:**

[]{.mark}

Miguel A. García

Dept. of Natural and Environmental Resources

Terrestrial Resources Division

Road \# 8838, Km 6.3, Sector El Cinco

Rio Piedras, PR 00926

[]{.mark}

Pedro Rios

US Forest Service

Caribbean National Forest

HC-01 Box 13490

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico 00745

[]{.mark}

Lilibeth Serrano (Scoping)

US Fish and Wildlife Service

Caribbean Field Office

PO Box 491

Boquerón, Puerto Rico, 00622

Astrid Green (Scoping)

Dept. of Natural and Environmental Resources

Road \# 8838, Km 6.3, Sector El Cinco

Rio Piedras, PR 00926

Blanca Ruiz (Scoping)

US Forest Service

Caribbean National Forest

HC-01 Box 13490

Rio Grande, Puerto Rico 00745

Dr. Antonio Rivera D.V.M.

1834 Glasbow Avenue

Collage Park

Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico 00921

University of Puerto Rico

P.O. Box 140885

Arecibo Puerto Rico 00614-0885

[]{.mark}

Ciudadanos en Defensa Del Ambiente:

P.O. Box 140885

Arecibo, Puerto Rico 00614-0885

Ph. (787) 878-5427

Ciudadanos Del Karso

Urb. La Cumbre

497 Ave. E. Pol. PMB 230

San Juan, PR 00926-5636

Ph. (787) 755-0410

Organización Para la Promoción y el Desarrollo Humano Inc.

P. O. Box 353

Ave. Luis Llorens Torres #242

Arecibo, PR 00613

Ph. (787) 817-6951

The Puerto Rico Conservation Trust

PO Box 9023554

San Juan Puerto Rico

00902-3554

Ph: 722-5834

Sociedad Ornitológica Puertorriqueña (SOPI)

PO Box 195166

San Juan, PR

00919-5166

Aministración para el Adiestramiento de Futuros Empresarios y
Trabajadores (AAFET)

HCO2 Box 15104

Rio Arriba

Arecibo PR 00612

[]{#refheading___toc135730987 .anchor}**SECTION IX -- LIST OF ALL
FEDERAL, STATES AND LOCAL LAWS AND PERMITS:**

[]{.mark}

Endangered Species Act of 1973

Ley de Bosques- Ley Num. 133 del 1 Julio 1975

Ley para la protección patrimonio arqueológico -- Ley Num. 112 del 20
Julio 1988

Ley del programa de Patrimonio Natural de Puerto Rico -- Ley Num. 150
del 4 Agosto 1990

Ley para fomentar la siembra de árboles cuyas frutas o semillas provean
alimento a especies de aves silvestres de Puerto Rico -- Ley Num. 97 del
25 Junio 1998

Ley de vida Silvestre del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico -- Ley
Num. 241 del 15 Agosto 1999

Ley para la protección y conservación de la fisiografía cársica de
Puerto Rico -- Ley Num. 292 del 21 Agosto 1999

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730988 .anchor}**APPENDIX I** Map of Puerto
Rico showing the location of the Río Abajo Forest.

![](media/image1.wmf){width="6.885416666666667in"
height="5.014583333333333in"}

Llerandi-Román, 2005

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730989 .anchor}**APPENDIX II: Number range
CHAPTERSTANDARD OPERATIONS PROTOCOLS**

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730990 .anchor}A. **BANDING**

I. Area of Applicability: Caribbean National Forest (CNF)

II\. Background: Banding has been an efficient technique throughout the
history of this project. This allows us to identify chicks in the wild
after fledglings. Chicks are color banded when they reach a certain
weight. The chick left band identifies the nest and the right band the
year it was born.

III\. Resources Required:

A. Personnel

1\. Biological Science Technician,

2 Wildlife Biologists and/or Volunteer (2)

B. Equipment/Materials

1\. Hand Sanitizing Solution and/or Latex Glove

2\. Round, 8\" diameter minimum, container with safety top or Clothes
Bags

3\. Notebook

4\. Color Leg Bands

5\. Safety Equipment

IV\. Procedure:

1.  Chicks must be marked when they weigh approximately100 g using a
    close color band. To perform this procedure at least two people are
    needed.

2.  Chicks should be marked when the pair leave the nest, preferable
    early in the morning (i.e., first or second time after leaving the
    area).

3.  Before handling the chicks, hands should be cleaned with sanitizing
    solution or using latex gloves.

4.  One person must climb the nest using the safety climbing equipment.
    The other must stay near the tree making sure that the pair do not
    arrive or is near the nest.

5.  Chicks will be marked with one color band in each leg. The left band
    identifies the nest where chicks were born. All chicks born from the
    same nest, regarding the year will have the same color band. The
    right band indicates the year. Every chick in the field, born in the
    same year, will have the same color band. Consequently, every cohort
    born in different year will have another color scheme.

6.  The color scheme for nests in the wild are the following:

  ----------------------------------------- -----------------------------
  **Nest**                                  **Color scheme**

  South Fork 2A                             Blue

  South Fork 2B                             Yellow

  Libertad                                  Purple

  South Fork 1T                             Green

  Quebrada Grande                           Orange
  ----------------------------------------- -----------------------------

> []{.mark}
>
> 7\. After chicks are banded, one person must stay in the blind to
> verify that the pair behavior seems normal (e.g., feeding hatchling
> soon after arriving to the nest).
>
> 8\. When performing nest inspection, bands should be checked. Improper
> banding procedure may cause bands to fall or leg problems.

V. Reports: Banding procedure will be reported in the blind observation
notebook.

VI\. Review Period: Annually

VII\. Authors: Wilfredo Abreu, Marisel López-Flores and Pablo
Torres-Báez

VIII\. Approval: Scientific Advisor Team

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730991 .anchor}

**B** **WILD NEST MONITORING**

I. Area of Applicability: Caribbean National Forest (CNF)

II\. Background: To increase the wild population in the CNF, we need to
assure that wild pairs using the nest cavities are successful in the
breeding season. A successful nest implies that at least one chick
fledge from every active wild nest. This may increase the probabilities
of wild pairs re-nesting in the same cavity. To increase the nest
success, field personnel need to monitor regularly the nests using
observational blinds. Normally, a person is assigned to a blind for half
days. However, nests are watched full-time when chicks are about to
fledge.

III\. Resources Required:

A. Personnel

1.  Biological Science Technician, Wildlife Biologist or/and volunteers

> with training in nest monitoring.

B. Equipment/Materials

1.  Blind (permanent or temporary)

2.  Portable Radio

3.  Data Notebook

4\. Listening Device System

5\. Monitoring Camera System

6.  Climbing Equipment

7.  Eggs or Chicks transference equipment

8.  First Aid kit

9.  Binoculars

IV\. Procedure:

1.  Normally the nests are monitories 3 half days for a week. However,
    if the nest presents problems the period time of monitoring and the
    numbers of day may change.

2.  Under normal conditions, the observer should enter the blind before
    dawn. If observer arrives after sunset, entering the blind should be
    done slowly and quiet. It is critical that the breeding pair is not
    in the vine and/or close to the blind..

3.  While in the blind, sudden movements or noises must be avoided to
    prevent parrots detecting the presence of the observer.

4.  As soon as observer arrives to the blind, listening device and
    camera system must be turn-on. If no noise is listened, check the
    9-volt battery and 1.5-volt and replace if necessary for listen
    device. For the camera system, check the 12-volt battery. If the
    listening device or the cameras are not working properly, do not
    leave the blind to check any component (e.g., cables, camera inside
    the nest).

5.  Inside the blind, the observer must remain completely alert while
    observing the nest and its surroundings.

6.  If any situation or emergency occurs, especially if the observer is
    along in the blind, a radio called must be performed before and
    after inspecting the nest to the nearest personnel in the field.

7.  Before leaving the blind, the observer must fill the data sheet
    inside the blind. Original copy should remain in the blind and the
    carbon copy must be taken to the Field Operation Coordinator.

8.  When departing the blind turn-off the listening device and camera
    system.

9.  Do not leave the blind if the pair is at the vine or near the nest
    and/or blind.

10. In any circumstances, unauthorized person should entered the blind
    unless, previous arrangement have been made with Field Supervisor or
    Field Operation Coordinator. Is recommended to have no more than two
    persons in the blind, unless an emergency occurs.

11. During the fledging period, observation time will be from dawn to
    dusk.

V. Reports: Data will be reported in blind observation notebook.

VI\. Review Period: Annually

VII\. Authors: Wilfredo Abreu, Marisel López-Flores, Pablo Torres-Báez

VIII\. Approval: Scientific Advisor Team

[]{#refheading___toc135730992 .anchor}**C TRANSFERRING EGG(S) AND/OR
CHICK(S) FROM FIELD TO AVIARY OR VICE VERSA**

I. Area of Applicability: Caribbean National Forest (CNF)

II\. Background: For a number of reasons, eggs and/or chicks are
transferred among the field and aviary. This protocol assures a safe and
rapid transportation of eggs or chicks with minimal mortality.

III\. Resources Required

A. Personnel

Field personnel and/or Veterinarian

B. Equipment/Materials

Round, 8\" diameter minimum, container with safety top

Avian heat brooder

> Small seeds

Paper towels

Disposable hand warmers

Clothes bag

IV\. Procedure

1.  If removal of eggs or chicks is necessary, contacting aviary
    personnel beforehand is mandatory. This will give the personnel time
    before delivery to prepare the aviary.

> 2\. Do not feed the chick before removing from nest; excessive
> movement while transferring, may cause chick to aspirate.
>
> 3\. Before handling the eggs or chicks, clean your hand with
> sanitizing solution or use latex glove.
>
> 4\. Place eggs into a lined container with small seeds and hand
> warmers. This will prevent movement and possible breakage of the egg.
> Seeds should cover at least half the egg.
>
> 5\. Chicks with few or no feathers would need additional heat source,
> especially if outdoor temperature is less than 80F^◦^. Use good
> reasoning regarding additional heat source (e.g., hand warmer) when
> transferring chicks. One or two hand warmers should be added. Make
> sure warmers are under and wrapped by small seeds. Direct contact with
> chicks can cause serious burns. If chick is feathered and temperature
> outside is warm, heat source may not be necessary.

6\. Place container into clothes bag and proceed directly and rapidly to
destination.

> 7\. If eggs or chicks are place in a wild nest, the foster parent
> behavior should be monitored thoroughly. This should be done within
> the first 24 hours after fostering the egg or chick. Use listening
> device and/or cameras to monitor.

8.  If an aviary chick is placed in a wild nest, be sure to prepare food
    and feed the chick before placing it in the nest. Use discretion
    because stressed chick may need a few hours to settle down before
    feeding is attempted.

> 9\. Eggs and/or chicks must be transported only by trained personnel,
> except in emergency cases.
>
> 10\. Transfer eggs or chicks from aviary to field early in the morning
> after sunrise.

V. Reports: Transferring eggs and/or chicks will be reported in the
blind observation notebook and aviary logbook.

VI\. Review Period: Annually

VII Authors: Wilfredo Abreu, Pablo Torres-Báez, Jafet Vélez

VIII\. Approval: Scientific Advisor Team

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730993 .anchor}

D. **WILD NEST INSPECTION**

I. Area of Applicability: Caribbean National Forest (CNF)

II\. Background: The goal of the Puerto Rican Parrot Recovery Program is
to produce successful nests (i.e., at least one chick fledge) every
year. To assure the best conditions for Puerto Rican Parrots in the
wild, is critical to have dry, clean, free of parasites and safe (e.g.,
predators and competitors) nests. This may increase the likelihood of
wild pairs re-nesting in the same cavity. The main objective of nest
inspections is to increase the probabilities of wild pairs using the
improved natural nests or the artificial PVC nest cavities

III\. Resources Required:

A. Personnel

1\. Biological Science Technician and/or Wildlife Biologist (2)

2\. Veterinarian (Blood Drawing)

B. Equipment/Materials

1\. Portable Radios (2)

2\. Nest Material made from Palo Colorado (*Cyrilla racemiflora*) and/or
Mahogany (*Swietenia* sp.)

3\. Hand Sanitizing Solution and/or Latex Glove

4\. Scales

5\. Plastic Bags and Clothes Bags

6\. Data Notebook

7\. Leg Bands

8\. Safety Equipment

9\. Small Flashlight

IV\. Procedure:

> Quick inspection = quickly check nest material, eggs(s) and chick(s)
>
> condition.
>
> Full inspection = replace nest material, verify chick(s) health
> condition (weight and physical exam), blood sampling, and banding if
> is necessary.
>
> A. Early in the breeding season, before nest becomes active, cavities
> should be checked to make sure that nest material is dry, also if the
> vine is properly placed and in good condition. Equipment such as the
> listening device and camera should be tested.

B. Once the nest is active:

> a\. **Egg incubation stage**: Check the egg(s) fertility during the
> 12-15 days after laid. During this period a weekly inspection will be
> conducted to check nest material status, unless the nest does not have
> a video camera system.
>
> b\. **First 1-4 days after hatching**: During this time a quick
> inspection should be conducted to verify the condition of chicks. If
> nest material is dirty, humid and contains parasites, it should be
> change.
>
> c\. **5-15 days**: Replace nest material and add Sevin dust to the new
> material. Weigh the chick twice and remove the un-hatched egg(s).
> During this period, at least two full inspection and all necessary
> quick inspections should be conducted.
>
> d\. **16-30 days:** During this period a weekly full inspection should
> be done. In every inspection new nest material and Sevin dust must be
> added. A minimum of two full inspection and all necessary quick
> inspections should be done.
>
> []{.mark}
>
> e\. **31- 45 days**: One full inspection per week. In every inspection
> nest material should be change with new material without Sevin dust.
> Chicks will be banded and blood sample must be drawn approximately 45
> days after hatched. A minimum of two full inspection and two quick
> inspections (day after banded and blood samples) should be conducted.
>
> []{.mark}
>
> f\. **46 - 60 days**: One full inspection must be done. Nest material
> should be changed with new material without Sevin dust. Chicks must be
> radio-marked approximately 45-50 days after hatched. A quick
> inspection should be conducted the day after radio-marking the chicks.
>
> C. Inspection time: Nest inspections must be done soon after the
> female leaves the nest for the first time. Disturbing the female
> inside the nest should not be done, unless is strictly necessary.
>
> []{.mark}
>
> If any situation or emergency occurs, especially if the observer is
> along in the blind, a radio called must be performed before and after
> inspecting the nest to the nearest personnel in the field.
>
> Before handling the eggs or chicks, clean hands with sanitizing
> solution or use latex gloves.

V. Reports: Inspections will be reported in the blind observation
notebook.

VI\. Review Period: Annually

VII\. Authors: Hernán Abreu, Wilfredo Abreu, Pablo Torres, Jafet Vélez,
Thomas White, Gilberto Ortiz and Miguel Toledo.

VIII\. Approval: Scientific Advisor Team

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730994 .anchor}

**APPENDIX III:** Typical haystack hill formations characteristic of the
Puerto Rican northern karst region

![](media/image2.wmf){width="4.208333333333333in"
height="3.296527777777778in"}

![](media/image3.png){width="6.8125in"
height="3.8208333333333333in"}[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730995 .anchor}

**APPENDIX IV:** Federally endangered and threatened species present in
the Northern Karst Region of Puerto Rico

  ------------------------------ ----------------------------------------
  **Birds (6)** Common name      Scientific name

  Broad-Winged Hawk              *Buteo platypterus*

  Sharp-Shinned Hawk             *Accipiter striatus*

  Yellow-Shouldered Blackbird    *Agelaius xanthomus*

  Plain Pigeon                   *Columba inornata wetmorei*

  **Reptiles (1)**               

  Puerto Rican Boa               *Epicrates inornatus*

  **Plants (21)**                

  Palo de Rosa                   *Ottoschulzia rhodoxylon*

  Beautiful Goetzea              *Goetzea elegans*

  Cóbana Negra                   *Stahlia monosperma*

  Bariaco                        *Trichilia triacantha*

  Vahl's Boxwood                 *Buxus vahli*

  Chupacallos                    *Pleodendron macranthum*

  Palo de Ramón                  *Pleodendron macranthum*

  Palma de Manaca                *Banara vanderbiltii*

  No common name                 *Calyptronoma rivalis*

  No common name                 *Ottoschulzia rhodoxylon*

  No common name                 *Myrcia paganii*

  No common name                 *Auerodendron pauciflorum*

  No common name                 *Schoepfia arenaria*

  No common name                 *Daphnopsis hellerana*

  Palo de Niqua                  *Cornutia obovata*

  No common name                 *Solanum drymophilum*

  No common name                 *Cordia bellonis*

  No common name                 *Peperomia wheeleri*

  No common name                 *Adiatum vivesii*

  No common name                 *Tectaria estremerana*

  No common name                 *Thelypteris verecunda*

  St. Thomas Prickly Ash         *Zanthoxylum thomasianum*

  No common name                 *Chamaecrista glandulosa var. mirabilis*
  ------------------------------ ----------------------------------------

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730996 .anchor}**APPENDIX V**: Flow chart
listing the various studies and sources of information used to evaluate
potential release sites, including the Río Abajo Forest Reserve, and to
develop a reintroduction plan to establish the second wild population of
Puerto Rican parrots in the island. The Río Abajo Forest (2340 ha), and
surrounding forests, ranked 1 among 3 potential release sites (protected
areas) in the northwestern karst (limestone) region of Puerto Rico.

![](media/image4.jpeg){width="6.0in" height="4.5in"}

[]{#__RefHeading___Toc135730997 .anchor}

**APPENDIX VI**: Environmental assessment and biological evaluation of
non-native exotic species management to protect wild Puerto Rican
parrots and their nests for the Caribbean National Forest prepared by
the U.S. Forest Service.

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