The Puerto Rican parrot, one of the world’s most endangered birds, is making a comeback, but scientists say its survival still depends on human help. A new study reveals that conservation efforts have boosted the population from just 13 birds in 1976 to 686 in 2021. However, hurricanes and low reproduction rates in the wild continue to threaten the species.
A Parrot on the Brink
The Puerto Rican parrot (Amazona vittata) was once common across Puerto Rico and nearby islands. But deforestation, hunting, and the pet trade nearly wiped it out. By the 1970s, only 13 parrots remained in the wild. To save the species, scientists started breeding programs in captivity and releasing parrots into protected forests.
Source: USFWS
Progress and Challenges
Today, there are two captive populations and three wild flocks. The Rio Abajo wild population is thriving, but the original El Yunque group struggles due to hurricanes and poor nesting conditions. Hurricanes Hugo (1989), George (1998), and Maria (2017) devastated wild parrots, with Maria wiping out the El Yunque group entirely. Thanks to releases, the population is rebuilding.
How Scientists Are Helping
- Releases and Fostering: Captive-bred parrots are released into the wild, and chicks are placed in wild nests to boost numbers.
- Nest Improvements: Artificial nest boxes and predator control help protect eggs and chicks.
- Hurricane Prep: Supplemental feeding stations and protected aviaries help parrots survive storms.
The Road Ahead
The study used computer models to predict the parrots’ future. Without ongoing help, some wild groups could decline again.
Why It Matters
These parrots are part of Puerto Rico’s natural heritage, and saving them protects the whole ecosystem.
The Puerto Rican parrot’s story shows how science and teamwork can bring a species back from the edge—but the work isn’t done yet. Government leaders need to know that people like you care about funding that supports vital wildlife programs like this.
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“Assessing population viability and management strategies
for species recovery of the critically endangered Puerto
Rican parrot.” Faust et al. Animal Conservation (2024).
