Puerto Rico 8-Day | January 2011 (Day 7 & 8)

Zebra Heliconia

Our last full day began with the whole group going to ‘the overlook’ on the outer reaches of El Yunque in search of the nearly extinct Puerto Rican Parrot. No luck after a long search, so we split according to interests and part of the group went to visit Old San Juan for a historical tour while the rest continued to bird.
 

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

I led the birding group first to Humacao, a wetland in the south east. Along the canal we were greeted by a very coopertaive Yellow-crowned Night Heron as well as Green Heron and Snowy Egret.

Green-throated Carib

This Green-throated Carib offered nice views as we searched along the water’s edge for Caribbean Coot and White-cheeked Pintail. We scanned the shadows of the mangroves hoping for a Least Bittern but always came up with yet another Green Heron!

Puerto Rican Flycatcher

Several Puerto Rican Flycatchers offered long views as they searched for bugs.

The Rio Cubuy

We returned to Casa Cubuy for the afternoon to enjoy the rushing river and waterfalls. A most beautiful spot!

The best Mofongo in Puerto Rico

Mofongo made and served by Noelia

After dark we joined the others down the road at Noelia’s for what I consider to be the best Mofongo in Puerto Rico. This was a special treat saved for our final night together.

For those unfamiliar with this specialty, Mofongo is green plantains mashed with butter and garlic. It is usually served with any variety of meat (I like Noelia’s BBQ pork) or seafood… or vegetables if you prefer.

A great way to enjoy our last evening with the group in Puerto Rico!