Desecheo National Wildlife Refuge

Desecheo National Wildlife Refuge is a 360-acre nature preserve on a mountainous island roughly 13 miles west of Puerto Rico's mainland. The property features varied elevations and serves as habitat for numerous seabird and marine species.

The U.S. military used this island for aerial bombing drills from 1940 to 1952, followed by Air Force survival exercises extending to 1964. This heavy use left behind unexploded ammunition and significant environmental damage across the land.

The refuge represents part of the Caribbean Islands National Wildlife Complex, preserving natural habitats and species native to the region.

The island remains closed to the public because unexploded military ammunition still poses a safety risk on the land. This restricted access helps ensure that animal populations can recover without human disturbance.

After successfully removing invasive animal species, scientists installed artificial nesting platforms and sound systems in 2018 to bring seabirds back. The equipment broadcasts seabird calls to attract migratory birds that had abandoned the island.

Location: Puerto Rico

Inception: 1976

Website: https://fws.gov/caribbean/refuges/desecheo

GPS coordinates: 18.38330,-67.48016

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:07