Dr. Juan A. Rivero Zoo is a zoo located in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. It is the only zoo on the island. It is named in honor of Juan A. Rivero. It has an extensive collection of animals from all continents, as well as new facilities. The zoo is undergoing a restructuring phase with the addition of the aviary, arthropodary and a butterfly exhibition. Benjamin Cole authored the law that created the zoo when he was a legislator. It was established in 1954 but has recently been remodeled.
Compromised with animal welfare, especially those facing extinction, the zoo has several conservations programs for the following species:
In an effort to promote conservation, the Dr. Rivero Zoo has started an adoption program in which citizens can "adopt" one of the zoo's animals, and donate to contribute in conservation efforts.
On March 2008 the zoo acquired two new giraffes and two desert warthog to enforce the African collection. The animals were brought from Ohio and Louisiana.
