The national bird of Puerto Rico is the Puerto Rican Spindalis, scientifically known as Spindalis portoricensis. This vibrant species, a small songbird found only within the archipelago, is a symbol of the island’s unique biodiversity. Its striking plumage and widespread presence make it an instantly recognizable part of the natural landscape. The bird holds a special place in the local culture.
The Official Designation of the National Bird
The Puerto Rican Spindalis is widely cited as the national bird, although its designation is informal rather than the result of a specific legislative act. This status stems from the bird being an endemic species, meaning its entire natural range is restricted solely to Puerto Rico and its surrounding islands. The bird’s unique identity was solidified in 1997 when an extensive analysis of the Spindalis genus led to its reclassification as a distinct species, S. portoricensis. Locally, the bird is affectionately known as the Reina Mora, which translates to “Moorish Queen,” a popular name highlighting its regal appearance.
Physical Appearance and Native Habitat
The Puerto Rican Spindalis is notable for its pronounced sexual dimorphism, displaying a distinct difference in coloration between males and females. The male bird is vividly colored, possessing bright yellow-green upperparts and an orange-yellow chest and neck. Its head is jet black, dramatically marked with two clean white stripes, one above and one below the eyes, giving it a masked appearance.
In contrast, the female exhibits a duller, olive-green coloration, which helps her remain camouflaged while nesting. She retains a less distinct suggestion of the male’s striped pattern, but her overall plumage is subdued, with fuzzy streaking on the underparts. At an average length of about 17 centimeters, this bird is a non-migratory resident found throughout the main island of Puerto Rico.
The species is highly adaptable, inhabiting a wide range of environments from coastal lowlands up to elevations of about 1,000 meters. Its preferred habitats include mature forests, forest edges, and the canopy layers of shade coffee plantations. The Spindalis is also frequently observed in suburban gardens and orchards, foraging for its diet which is primarily frugivorous. It supplements its diet of diverse fruits, such as figs and Cecropia berries, with insects and small lizards.
Ecological and Cultural Importance
Ecologically, the Spindalis performs a vital function as a seed disperser. As a primarily fruit-eating bird, it consumes seeds from various native plants, which are then distributed throughout the landscape in its droppings. This process helps to facilitate the regeneration and maintenance of native forests.
Culturally, the distinctive beauty of the Reina Mora resonates strongly with the Puerto Rican identity. While generally common and classified as a species of Least Concern globally, the bird still faces ongoing pressures from habitat loss and urbanization. Conservation efforts, which focus on protecting forested lands and controlling invasive species, are important for sustaining the population of this cherished endemic songbird.