Caribbean Field Office
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Post Office Box 491
Boquerón, Puerto Rico, 00622
Telephone: (787) 851-7297 Fax: (787) 851-7440
Sir:
I am very concerned about the apparently dwindling populations of several Eleutherodactylus species in the island of Puerto Rico, which is, as I understand it, under the jurisdiction of Region Four, and therefore it is to you that I should address my concern.
Specifically I call to your attention the species Eleutherodactylus Jasperi (a.k.a. "Coquí Dorado de Cayey") which is currently listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service as a "Threatened or Vulnerable Species". It also enjoyed the distinction of being the only oviviparous species of Coquí in the world. It is my understanding that in spite of the protection implied by its classification as a "Vulnerable" species no one has seen or heard this particular Coquí since 1981. Nevertheless it has not yet been upgraded to a classification of "Species in Danger of Extinction" nor has it's habitat been declared as "Critical."
Other species of Coquí have not been seen in years as well, specifically E. Eneida (a.k.a. "Coquí de Eneida") and E. Karlschmidti (a.k.a. "Coquí Palmeado"). Furthermore, three other species of Coquí are rarely seen and could be well on their way to disappearing as well. These are, E. Cooki, E. Locustus and E. Richmondi.
I urge you to take the necessary actions to correct the conditions that are responsible for the disturbing facts presented to you in this letter. I believe the species of Eleutherodactylus in Puerto Rico are in real danger of extinction and respectfully request that you take the following steps to protect them:
- Encourage and intensify any scientific research regarding these species.
- Please update and frequently revise your lists of vulnerable and endangered species so that your protection does not delay in arriving to needed organisms.
- Declare their habitats as "Critical" so that your protection can be enforced.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,