Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge

The Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1974 for its indispensable and unique value in “carrying out the national migratory bird management program”. In 1999 the Cabo Rojo Salt Flats, mangrove fringes, and uplands were added to the refuge for a total of 1,836 acres of land dedicated to protecting one of the most important shorebird habitats in the Caribbean.

This refuge is one of nine refuges that encompass the Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Refuge Complex. The Caribbean islands make up one of the most diverse ecosystems within the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

These ecosystems provide numerous opportunities to protect and restore tropical forests, neotropical migratory bird wintering grounds, and habitat for more than 78 threatened or endangered species. To date, 245 plant species and 145 bird species have been identified at Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge.