How's this for a holiday gift that's not only unique but also supports a vast natural resource of Puerto Rico.
Discover Puerto Rico, in partnership with Conservacion ConCiencia, the local environmental research and conservation organization, launched the Adopt a Coqui program to support a beloved symbol of the island.
Anyone who has ever been to Puerto Rico and spent time in El Yunque National Rainforest -- or anywhere beyond urban San Juan -- has likely been serenaded by the island's unofficial mascot. The two-note whistle sounds like "co-KEE," and the musical call comes from the male coqui frog to attract females and ward off competitors during mating season.
The petite tree frog species endemic to Puerto Rico lives in the island's forests, measures one to two inches in length and has special pads instead on its feet so it can climb trees and stick to branches and leaves.
"We're inviting future travelers to be inspired by our natural offerings in a safe and responsible way, as many are dreaming about their first trip when the time is right," said Brad Dean, Discover Puerto Rico's CEO.
"Adopt a Coqui gives the gift of hope during this holiday season, supporting conservation efforts in Puerto Rico and felt globally," he said.
The program supports the little frogs' ecosystem that, although protected, is at risk due to loss of habitat and climate change.
By visiting www.discoverpuertorico.com/coqui and making a donation of $25, recipients receive a digital adoption certificate with their name on it for their contribution to supporting conservation, sustainability and climate resilience efforts by Conservacion ConCiencia.
In addition, Discover Puerto Rico launched Sounds like Puerto Rico, a five-episode series that explores the jargon and natural sounds of the island's culture, including a visit to El Yunque where the song of the coqui can be heard.