Protect Seabirds in the Caribbean

Since we last wrote you, our seabird monitor training efforts have continued growing. Just this week, Project Coordinator Juliana Coffey showed marine park staff in Grenada how to identify seabird species and explained the threats they face, including poaching of eggs, chicks, and adults. They were excited to learn more about the birds they see every day during their patrols and how they can help them through their enforcement work.

She also spoke with fisherfolk to get their input into the Community-based Seabird Conservation Management Plan. Participants were upset to learn about the many threats facing seabirds, especially since many of them rely on seabirds to find fish. When asked what their favorite seabird is, one man said it was the Frigatebird because it’s the easiest to spot at sea and indicates good fishing grounds. Another man disagreed since he didn’t like how the Frigatebird stole fish from the other birds! Regardless of their opinions, it is wonderful to see the enthusiasm for these remarkable animals. The group has asked to meet with Juliana again to discuss how they can develop tourism around seabirds, which would provide financial incentive to protect the birds and their nesting areas.

With your support we can continue working with fisherfolk to provide alternative livelihoods like ecotourism and reduce the threat of poaching of seabirds. Our training efforts are having a positive impact, building support for seabird protection and a community of advocates. Thank you for helping to make this work possible!

Links:

• Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) website