St Lucia - BirdLife International
St Lucia - BirdLife International
St Lucia - BirdLife International
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Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
FINAL REPORT<br />
WATERBIRDS IN ST LUCIA<br />
Photo: Mathew Morton/Durrell<br />
Authors: Donald Anthony, Alwin Dornelly, Lyndon John (<strong>St</strong> <strong>Lucia</strong> Forestry<br />
Department) and Mathew Morton (Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust)<br />
<strong>St</strong> <strong>Lucia</strong> Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Department<br />
2007<br />
Durrell Wlidlife Conservation Trust<br />
Edited by: Verónica Anadón-Irizarry and David Wege (<strong>BirdLife</strong> <strong>International</strong>)<br />
Part of an evaluation of waterbirds population and their conservation in the Caribbean, a project coordinated by<br />
<strong>BirdLife</strong> <strong>International</strong> within the initiative of Waterbird Conservation for the Americas and sponsored by the U.S.<br />
Fish and Wildlife Service (Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act)<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 0
Table of Contents<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
1. Introduction......................................................................................................................................2<br />
2. Ornithological Importance...............................................................................................................4<br />
3. Protected Areas................................................................................................................................5<br />
4. Conservation Initiatives ...................................................................................................................5<br />
5. <strong>International</strong> Conservation Agreements...........................................................................................5<br />
6. Conservation Concerns ....................................................................................................................5<br />
7. Conservation Needs ............................................................................................................ 6<br />
8. Glossary ...........................................................................................................................................6<br />
9. Sites..................................................................................................................................................7<br />
10. Annotated Bibliography.................................................................................................................11<br />
Appendixes<br />
Table 1. Waterbirds occurrence, distribution, habitat and population estimates in <strong>St</strong> <strong>Lucia</strong>…………….13<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 1
1. INTRODUCTION<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
The island of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> lies within the archipelago of the Eastern Caribbean which stretches from<br />
Puerto Rico in the north to Trinidad and Tobago in the south. It is grouped with the islands of<br />
Dominica, <strong>St</strong>. Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada to form the Windward Islands. In the<br />
recent past the Windward Group joined with the Leeward Islands in an economic grouping called<br />
OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean <strong>St</strong>ates). <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is 238 square miles (661sq. klms),<br />
27 miles long and 14 miles wide.<br />
The population of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is estimated at 165,000 with Castries as capital, Gros Islet, Vieux<br />
Fort and Soufriere being the most densely populated areas. The mainstay of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> economy is<br />
agriculture, tourism and industry. The main crops grown are bananas, coconut and vegetables,<br />
while root crops, mangoes and citrus are secondary crops. The main tourist areas are the North<br />
from Castries to Gros Islet, Soufriere in the South West and Vieux Fort in the South. The main<br />
ports of entry are Castries in the North and Vieux Fort in the South. Hewanorra Airport is the<br />
main international airport located in Vieux-Fort and a smaller airport G.F.L. Charles Airport<br />
located at Vigie in Castries.<br />
<strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is known as ‘The Helen of the West Indies’, a name it earned after 2 centuries of<br />
bloody wars between Britain and France for possession of the island. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> exchanged hands<br />
14 times between these two colonial powers of the past with Britain being the last colonist. The<br />
Banana Industry had until recently enjoyed a secure market in Britain under the Lome 2<br />
Agreement. However, with the advent of the European Union and the globalization of free trade,<br />
protection of Caribbean bananas on the European market was challenged by some European<br />
countries and the United <strong>St</strong>ates in particular. With increasing pressure from the United <strong>St</strong>ates<br />
who has the ‘lions’ share of the world banana market, exporting Dollar Bananas from Latin<br />
America, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> was forced to diversify its Agricultural Economy.<br />
Tourism in <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> for the past decades catered mainly for tourists who came to enjoy the<br />
beach, sea and sun. In recent times, however, the tourism industry’s product began to diversify<br />
and to offer more than just sea and sun by utilizing the beauty and adventure that <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>’s<br />
natural areas provide. This augers well with Cruise Tourism, as Cruise ship passengers only<br />
spend a few hours on the island. As one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean if not the<br />
world, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is fast becoming a tourist destination. With no natural resources except its<br />
people, fauna, flora, land and sea, tourism, especially ecotourism, is becoming the product of<br />
choice. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>’s unspoilt natural beauty is a haven for the eco-tourist. Ecotourism in <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong><br />
is a multifaceted industry with a number of areas to satisfy the needs of the eco-tourist. These<br />
areas include sightseeing, bird watching, and horseback riding in the out country, plantation<br />
tours, forest tours (Rain forest, Dry forest, and Xerophytic forest), snorkelling, waterfall tours,<br />
fishing, mountain climbing and special tours. A number of government agencies and private<br />
organizations are involved in the tourism industry but there is no organized manpower planning<br />
strategy for the ecotourism sector. The Ministries of Tourism, Agriculture and Education play a<br />
big role in the development of the tourism product together with the <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Tourist Board, <strong>St</strong>.<br />
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Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
<strong>Lucia</strong> Hotel and Tourism Association, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> National Trust, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Naturalist Society and<br />
Various taxi Associations and Tour companies all contribute in the development of the<br />
ecotourism industry.<br />
1.1 Location The Island of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is located at 13°55' north latitude and 60° 59' west<br />
longitude. It is approximately 21 miles south of Martinique and 25 miles north of <strong>St</strong>. Vincent. It<br />
has an area of 238 square miles.<br />
1.2 Topography The topography of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is characterized by a main axial ridge that<br />
stretches from La Sorciere in the north to Saltibus in the south. The Island’s tallest mountain is<br />
Mount Gimie 3117 feet and also two spectacular pitons {volcanic plugs) rising from the sea,<br />
Gros Piton 2619ft and Petit Piton 2461ft in the south west of the Island. The pitons are an<br />
important <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> and Caribbean landmark and are now a World Heritage Site based on its<br />
unique beauty and volcanicity. Generally, the Island is incised with steep hills and valleys and<br />
many streams emanating from the forested interior which give it a rugged steeply dissected<br />
topography.<br />
1.3 Climate Vegetation and Land Use <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> has two seasons; a dry season which starts<br />
from December and usually ends in May and a wet season which is from June to<br />
November. However, with the present changes in global climate this does not usually<br />
follow the norm. For example in 2004 a dry season was not really experienced due to<br />
constant rains from December 2003 to May 2004. Annual rainfall in <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> ranges<br />
from 250" in the wet central mountainous interior to 60" in the dry coastal locations. The<br />
island enjoys a relatively pleasant climate with temperature averaging around 27° C<br />
maximum temperature is 32° C with minimum temperature of about 22° C experienced in<br />
the mountainous interior and during the cool months of November to January. Land use<br />
in <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> can be classified as residential commercial, industrial, agricultural and<br />
forests. Livestock farming is done on a small scale and most animals are tethered. Dry<br />
secondary forests occur on the slopes near the coast. Most of this forest type has been<br />
degraded by man’s influence. The forested lands in the interior comprise mainly of<br />
natural forest with a few exotic species in small plantations. Agriculture is practiced both<br />
in lowlands and on steep slopes with banana cultivation as the major cash crop.<br />
Deforestation for banana cultivation, hotel development and housing is the main cause of<br />
the islands environmental problems<br />
1.4 Main Threats<br />
Some of the main threats to birds and their habitat are listed below<br />
• Habitat loss, such as mangroves, wetlands, littoral vegetation and other woodlands for<br />
agriculture, hotel development, roads and housing is possibly the main cause of habitat<br />
loss on the Island.<br />
• Hurricanes – <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> lies in the hurricane belt of the eastern Caribbean and as a result<br />
is vulnerable to hurricane strikes each year during the hurricane season which runs from<br />
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Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
June to November. However, the last hurricane to hit the Island was Hurricane Allen in<br />
1980 where over 80% of the forest was either damaged or destroyed.<br />
• Non-native predators – especially small Indian mongoose; rats, feral pigs, Giant African<br />
snail, introduced competitors such as sheep, goats and cattle.<br />
• Fires – The threat of fires is high in the dry season. Some dry forest areas have had a few<br />
fires in the past when fires lit by farmers or other persons have escaped.<br />
• Pest and disease – Increase in global travel also increases the threat and the spread of<br />
new pest and disease. Natural habitat is always vulnerable to new pest and disease as was<br />
the case in Grenada some years ago with the arrival of the hibiscus Pink Mealy Bug<br />
which devastated their Blue Mahoe plantations. Another case in point is the threat of<br />
Avian Influenza Virus - with the passage every year of migratory avian species through<br />
our hemisphere.<br />
• Global Climate Change – The forecast of sea level rise and all its accompanying<br />
scenarios as a result of global warming can be a direct threat to natural habitat areas on<br />
the Island. With severe weather of either drought or heavy rains, both can have negative<br />
consequences on natural habitat for wildlife<br />
• Volcanic eruption – Since the Pitons are volcanic plugs of an extinct/dormant volcano,<br />
the threat of a volcanic eruption although remote cannot be ruled out. The Soufriere Hills<br />
in the Caribbean Island of Monsterrat is a grim reminder of what extinct volcanoes can<br />
do. However, the likelihood of an eruption in the near future is remote.<br />
2. ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE<br />
Located midway in the Caribbean chain of Island, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is visited by many migrants on their<br />
migratory route from North to South America. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> has recorded 97 species of birds that<br />
breed on the Island including 8 endemic species. However, over 200 species of birds have been<br />
recorded on the island.<br />
On the world map the Island stands out as a tiny dot. However, due to its high endemism both in<br />
fauna and flora, small land mass, coupled with high threat levels, all the endemic species face<br />
some form of endangerment.<br />
• WATERBIRDS –Some of the key breeding sites for waterbirds on <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> include<br />
Grande Anse Ponds, Esperance mangrove, Bois D’orange swamp, Auberge Seraphine<br />
swamp, Praslin mangrove, Fregate Islands, Maria Islands and Point Sables. Those sites<br />
are used by migratory species such as ducks, herons, waders, and other fowl. Some of the<br />
water birds that breed on the Island include Masked duck, Common Gallinule, Little Blue<br />
Heron, Green Heron, and Yellow- crowned Night Heron.<br />
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3. PROTECTED AREAS AND CONSERVATION SYSTEMS<br />
Nearly 12% of the total land area of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> or approximately 19000 acres is Government<br />
Forest Reserve (GFR) which is protected forests. Almost 35% of the island is still under<br />
some form of forest cover, however, most of it is privately owned. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> National Trust<br />
(SLNT), which is a quasi governmental organization has management jurisdiction for some<br />
offshore Islets, and a few parks and protected areas which amounts to approximately 629<br />
acres.<br />
4. CONSERVATION INITIATIVES<br />
At Present the Veterinary Department, in collaboration with the Forestry Department in the<br />
Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), are working on a schedule of<br />
surveillance for detection of the Avian Influenza Virus at various wetlands Island-wide. This<br />
programme is being funded by the Government of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. The <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Iguana Project,<br />
The <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Whiptail project and the White-breasted Thrasher Project presently are<br />
ongoing research activities taking place within the dry forest habitat. The lead agency is<br />
Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in collaboration with the Forestry department. This<br />
project is funded mainly by Durrell. The project started in 2002 with broad objectives for<br />
determining the status of the <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Iguana. A monitoring programme run by the Forestry<br />
Department and Durrell is ongoing to determine the distribution of the <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Whitebreasted<br />
Thrasher in its entire range, in relation to habitat changes brought about by a hotel<br />
development within the thrasher habitat. A pilot project using a distance sampling to<br />
determine the population of the <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Parrot has been field tested by staff of the Forestry<br />
Department and Durrell Wildlife. Both the Parrot and White-breasted Thrasher surveys<br />
include a component to estimate populations of other selected forest bird species.<br />
5. INTERNATIONAL CONSERVATION AGREEMENTS<br />
<strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> is signatory to a number of international agreement namely The Convention on<br />
<strong>International</strong> Trade in wild Fauna and Flora CITES, The RAMSAR convention, Convention<br />
on Biological Diversity, Convention to Combat Desertification, SPAW Protocol, Cartagena<br />
Convention, World Heritage Convention.<br />
6. CONSERVATION CONCERNS<br />
Deforestation for agriculture, hotel development, roads and housing is possibly the main<br />
cause of habitat loss on the Island.<br />
Hurricanes – <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> lies in the hurricane belt of the eastern Caribbean Chain of<br />
Islands and as a result is vulnerable to hurricane strikes each year during the hurricane<br />
season which runs from June to November. However, the last hurricane to hit the Island<br />
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was Hurricane Allen in 1980 where over 80% of the forest was either damaged or<br />
destroyed.<br />
Non-native predators – especially small Indian mongoose; black, brown rats<br />
Fires – The threat of fires is high in the dry season. Some dry forest areas have had a few<br />
fires in the past when fires lit by farmers or other persons have escaped.<br />
Pest and disease – Increase in global travel also increases the threat and the spread of<br />
new pest and disease. Natural habitat is always vulnerable to new pest and disease as was<br />
the case in Grenada some years ago with the arrival of the Hibiscus Pink Mealy Bug<br />
which devastated their Blue Mahoe plantations. Another case in point is the threat of<br />
Avian Influenza Virus - with the passage every year of migratory avian species through<br />
our hemisphere.<br />
Global Climate Change – The forecast of sea level rise and all its accompanying<br />
scenarios as a result of global warming can be a direct threat to natural habitat areas on<br />
the Island. With severe weather of either drought or heavy rains, both can have negative<br />
consequences on natural habitat for wildlife.<br />
• Volcanic eruption – Since the Pitons are volcanic plugs of an extinct/dormant volcano,<br />
the threat of a volcanic eruption although remote cannot be ruled out. The Soufriere Hills<br />
in the Caribbean Island of Monsterrat is a grim reminder of what extinct volcanoes can<br />
do. However, the likelihood of an eruption in the near future is remote.<br />
7. CONSERVATION NEEDS<br />
A monitoring programme is ongoing to determine the distribution of the <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Whitebreasted<br />
thrasher in its entire range, in relation to habitat changes brought about by a hotel<br />
development. There is a dire need of funding to purchase critical habitat presently in private<br />
hands to save the <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> White-breasted Thrasher. Another monitoring programme for the<br />
early detection of Avian Influenza Virus will start here soon. This activity is being<br />
spearheaded by the Veterinary Department of MAFF. However, there is an information gap<br />
on the number of species that visit the various wetland habitats on the Island.<br />
8. GLOSSARY<br />
SLNT- <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> National Trust<br />
MAFF – Ministry of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries<br />
GFR – Government Forest Reserve<br />
OECS - Organization of Eastern Caribbean <strong>St</strong>ates<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 6
9. SITES<br />
A. Mandele Dry Forest<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
The Mandele Dry Forest (60 O 53.76' W 13 O 53.52' N) is located on the eastern part of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> encompassed by<br />
Ravine Pascal to the north, Ravine Bourge to the south and on the northwest by the Dennery Water Works Forest<br />
Reserve. It is about 826 ha in extension and has an altitude range of 0 – 200 meters.<br />
Ornithological information: The Mandele Dry Forest has much to offer in terms of wildlife. Migratory birds<br />
species furthermore nest and roost in different locations in the area. The Magnificent Frigate bird is one such<br />
species.<br />
Species Season Year Min-Max<br />
Royal Tern <strong>St</strong>erna maxima resident 2007 < 50<br />
Protection status Marine Reserve - Praslin Mangroves. This site was declared a marine reserve in 1986; Reef from<br />
Anse Galet to beach at Anse Cochon - declared a marine reserve in 1990. There are also Crown Lands at this site<br />
(e.g. around Bordelais) which may have the potential for future conservation management. The Praslin mangroves<br />
and Frigate Islands are protected areas.<br />
Conservation issues Threats include:<br />
Deforestation - It is worth noting that indiscriminate harvesting of sapling poles for broom handles is slowly<br />
depleting the forest vegetation .A small portion along the Praslin River is under agricultural cultivation with<br />
bananas, coconuts and to a lesser extent cashew nuts and corn.<br />
Fires, usually contained within relatively small areas (few ha) are common.<br />
Non-native predators - small Indian mongoose; black, brown rats.<br />
Pollution - Application of agro-chemicals to crops maybe causing chemical pollution to the lower Praslin River,<br />
which discharges into Praslin Bay. The influx of those chemicals may be causing adverse effects to both freshwater<br />
and marine life.<br />
Commercial Development - The development of a massive hotel will result in a significant depletion of the<br />
thrasher's habitat.<br />
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B. North East Coast<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
The North East Coast (60 O 59.77' W 13 O 59.73' N) covers approximately 4314 ha, and stretches from the Dennery<br />
Knob westward to Mardi Gras just outside the periphery of the Forest Reserve. It then follows a north eastern<br />
direction along the Forest Reserve Boundary to Grand Anse. This area occupies a considerable portion within the<br />
tropical dry forest life zone of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> and is largely covered by scrub forest characterized by short canopy and a<br />
large number of small-diameter trees. Nature conservation and research, agriculture, rangeland/ pastureland, some<br />
areas not utilized, all these categories aid to describe the land use of the area. A major part of the area is not utilized<br />
remaining under secondary forest cover.<br />
Ornithological information: The area is important for migrant species and waterbirds as such as Cattle Egret<br />
Bubulcus ibis and Green Heron Butorides virescens. A pond at Grande Anse is the only place where Masked Ducks<br />
have been recorded breeding. Many migrant ducks, warblers and waterbirds have been recorded in the area.<br />
Potentially, it may also serve as a nesting place for marine species such as the Red-billed Tropicbird that has been<br />
recorded nesting along the cliff in others parts of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. Furthermore, several shorebirds have been recorded<br />
foraging along the beach areas.<br />
Species Season Year Min-Max<br />
Masked Duck Nomonyx dominicus resident 2007 < 50<br />
Red-billed Tropicbird Phaethon aethereus breeding 2007 < 50<br />
Royal Tern <strong>St</strong>erna maxima resident 2007 < 50<br />
Protection status Marine Reserves - Marquis Mangroves, Fond D'or, Louvette Mangroves, Grand Anse Beach and<br />
Mangroves, Cas-en-Bas Mangrove. These sites were designated marine reserves in 1986. Most of the area is<br />
privately owned. Government has jurisdiction on the marine reserves and own a few parcels of crown lands.<br />
Conservation issues Generally several mal-practices may negatively impact the integrity of the area. Non-native<br />
predators - small Indian mongoose; black, brown rats; semi feral cats and dogs.<br />
Garbage - Garbage disposal is a problem.<br />
Deforestation - Deforestation for agricultural purposes threatens much of the area. This causes forest fragmentation<br />
and limits nesting and roosting sites of wildlife species. Furthermore, resident species may face greater exposure to<br />
predation and competition by foreign species.<br />
Fires, usually contained within relatively small areas (few ha) are common.<br />
Sand Mining - Indiscriminate sand mining by residents of the surrounding communities destroys the beach and<br />
jeopardizes the reproductive attempts of turtles.<br />
Hotel development - Development of large hotels and golf courses may threaten the survival of many species.<br />
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C. Pitons Management Area<br />
The Pitons (61 O 3.19' W 13 O 49.55' N) are located on the southwest coast of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>, near the coastal town of<br />
Soufriere, and provide an area of outstanding natural beauty, spectacular geological features, and highly productive<br />
biological ecosystems. The Pitons Management Area (PMA) is a World Heritage Site comprising of 2 majestic<br />
volcanic spires that rise from the sea to 777m and 730m respectively. The Gros Piton and Petit Piton are volcanic<br />
plugs that are part of our national and international identity. The area comprise of 1450 hectares. Communities<br />
within the PMA are Fond Jens Libre and Chateau Belair. Two resorts Ladera and Jalousie Hilton also lie within the<br />
PMA.<br />
Ornithological information:<br />
Species Season Year Min-Max<br />
Royal Tern <strong>St</strong>erna maxima resident 2007 < 50<br />
Protection status The Area is a World Heritage Site and as a result the 2 pitons are protected while the surrounding<br />
lands are under some form of management. Part of the marine area is a marine reserve. The Wildlife Protection Act,<br />
The Fisheries Act and Crown Lands Ordinance all play a role in protecting the area. The protected area is contained<br />
by the proposed IBA.<br />
Conservation issues Some of the threats to the Piton management Area include the following:<br />
Non-native predators - especially small Indian mongoose; black, brown rats.<br />
Development - Pressures from tourism.<br />
Hurricanes - <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> lies in the hurricane belt of the eastern Caribbean.<br />
Fires - The threat of fires is high in the dry season. The area has had a few fires in the past when fires lit by farmers<br />
or from persons camping in the area have escaped.<br />
Volcanic eruption - Since the Pitons are volcanic plugs of an extinct/dormant volcano, the threat of a volcanic<br />
eruption although remote cannot be ruled out.<br />
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D. Point Sables National Park<br />
Photo: Mathew Morton/Durrell<br />
Point Sables National Park (60 O 55.92' W 13 O 40.70' N) covers an area of approximately 774 hectares in size and<br />
located along the south to southeast coast. Terrestrially it comprises of a narrow coastal strip and the Moule-a-<br />
Chique peninsula. The terrain is low to undulating, with the highest point being at Moule-a-Chique (223 metres), at<br />
the southern tip of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. The marine area is proportionately larger, consisting of long sandy beaches, the<br />
Savannes Bay and Mankòtè Mangroves, Scorpion Island, the Maria Islands, and several coral reefs and nearshore<br />
islands. The vegetation is varied with a predominance of tropical dry forest. The area also includes several historical<br />
sites, including old fort sites, a lighthouse and a World War II-vintage radar tracking station.<br />
Ornithological information Several bird species have been recorded for the entire area. At least thirty-two species<br />
were observed at Savannes Bay during a study conducted by Robert L. Norton in 1989. A number of them were also<br />
recorded nesting among the mangrove and other ground vegetation. Some of those include Green-backed Heron<br />
(Green Heron) and Yellow-crowned Night Heron. Many migrants have also been recorded in the area, for example<br />
egrets, herons, kingfishers, warblers, ducks, and waders. The extreme northern end encompasses a swamp<br />
occupying an area of approximately 6 acres. This swamp is almost always flooded with water of slightly brackish<br />
nature partially fed by the ocean tides. It attracts several bird species almost throughout the year. Many species of<br />
ducks, herons, sand pipers, plovers, egrets, gallinules, rails and other shorebirds and waterfowl find a temporary<br />
place of sojourn at the pond. Many of these species are seasonal migrants.<br />
Species Season Year Min-Max<br />
Red-billed Tropicbird Phaethon aethereus resident 2007 < 50<br />
Royal Tern <strong>St</strong>erna maxima resident 2007 < 50<br />
Roseate Tern <strong>St</strong>erna dougallii breeding 2007 50 - 100<br />
Bridled Tern <strong>St</strong>erna anaethetus breeding 2007 250 - 500<br />
Sooty Tern <strong>St</strong>erna fuscata breeding 2007 20,000-49,999<br />
Protection status Nature Reserves - Maria Islands. These sites were declared nature reserves in 1982. Marine<br />
Reserves - Anse Pointe Sable to Mankoté Mangrove, Savannes Bay Mangrove, Maria Islands' Reef - declared<br />
reserves in 1986; Reef from Ceasar Point to Mathurin Point - declared reserves in 1990.<br />
Conservation issues Several elements both individually and collectively pose considerable threats to the area. Some<br />
are natural occurrences while others are human induced. Those threats include: Natural disasters - The Island is<br />
prone to hurricanes and storms, and these events may have catastrophic effects on the natural resources of the area.<br />
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Non-native predators - small Indian mongoose; black, brown rats. Charcoal production - The mangroves are<br />
situated within an area of rapid commercial development, and are subjected to several impacts. In the Mankoté end,<br />
harvesting for charcoal is undertaken by the Aupicon Charcoal Producers Group. However, indiscriminate<br />
harvesting of the mangrove by unauthorized persons is common and conflicts with the sustainable management<br />
approach used by the Aupicon group. Mining - Mining and quarrying activities nearby result in the discharge of<br />
chemicals and other industrial waste into the immediate environment. Pollution - Indiscriminate disposal of<br />
household garbage by nearby residents may cause pollution and further degradation to the resources. Unemployment<br />
- It is important to know the socioeconomic context in which the proposed management area will be located;<br />
unemployment and poverty levels in the immediate surroundings of any area with abundant harvestable natural<br />
resources can be an indicator of the threats and challenges its managers will face. Over ambitious investors - At the<br />
same time at the other end of the economic scale, the presence of investors flush with money may present threats<br />
and challenges of a more serious kind; construction of hotels, golf courses and piers on the shoreline in the name of<br />
eco-development has the potential to negatively impact or eliminate coastal ecosystems. Deforestation -<br />
Deforestation of upland areas may subsequently cause destruction to the coastal areas. These ecosystems are the<br />
primary habitat for fish (sea grass, mangroves and coral reefs) are being slowly degraded by the effects of<br />
deforestation in upland areas. Illegal Hunting - Illegal hunting of sea urchin harvesting for local consumption and<br />
export to Martinique is common.<br />
10. Annotated bibliography<br />
Anthony D. 1977 Inventory of Flora and fauna of Gros Piton, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. World Wildlife Fund /USAID /ENCORE<br />
<strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>.<br />
Anthony D. 2005. Inventory of the Flora and Fauna of the Chassin/La Sorciere Area <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Rain Forest<br />
Tram Inc.<br />
<strong>BirdLife</strong> <strong>International</strong> 2007 <strong>BirdLife</strong>'s online World Bird Database: the site for bird conservation. Version 2.1.<br />
Cambridge, UK: <strong>BirdLife</strong> <strong>International</strong>. Available: http://www.birdlife.org<br />
Cox C. 1999. A rapid inventory of the Flora and Fauna of Petit Piton and the Ridge between the Pitons. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong><br />
World Heritage Committee.<br />
De Beauville, S. 2004. Lessons Learnt during the Development and Implementation of the Coastal Zone<br />
Management Project (2001-2), <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. Castries: Department of Fisheries.<br />
Espeut P., 2006. Opportunities for Sustainable Livelihoods in One Protected Area in Each of the Six Independent<br />
OECS Territories, for the OECS Protected Areas and Sustainable Livelihoods (OPAAL) Project OECS<br />
CONTRACT Number OECS/121/05<br />
Geoghagen, T. and A.H. Smith. 1998. Conservation and Sustainable Livelihoods: Collaborative Management of the<br />
Mankòtè Mangrove, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. Vieux Fort: Caribbean Natural Resources Institute. Community Participation in<br />
Forest Management: Case <strong>St</strong>udy Series 1<br />
Gonzales O. J., and Z. R. Donald. 1996. Tropical dry forest of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> West Indies: Vegetation and soil properties.<br />
Biotropica 28(4b): 618-626<br />
Howard, R. A., 1979. Flora of the Lesser Antilles - Windward and leeward islands Vols 1-4 Arnold Arboretum,<br />
Harvard University, Jamaica plain, Massachusetts<br />
Hudson L., Renard Y., and Romulus G. 1992. A System of Protected Areas for <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. Castries: <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong><br />
National Trust, Castries<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 11
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Isaac C, L. Jn. Pierre and D. Anthony. 1990. A report on plant inventory ethnobotanical study and community<br />
resource use survey from Dennery Knob to Grande Anse in <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> National Trust. Castries <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>.<br />
Jennings-Clark, S. and D'Auvergne, C., An Assessment of the Coastal Marine Habitats of Savannes Bay <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>:<br />
mangroves, seagrass and reef, The Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries and the<br />
Environment, <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>, 1990.<br />
Jn. Pierre L.L. 1988. Report on the <strong>St</strong>atus of the Flora and Fauna of the area of the Proposed Piton National Trust.<br />
<strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> National Trust.<br />
Raffaele, H. Wiley J., Garrido, O., Keith A. and Raffaele J., 1998 A Guide to the Birds of the West Indies. Princeton<br />
University Press, Princeton New Jersey.<br />
<strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Biodiversity Country Report of <strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong>. Castries: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. 2000.<br />
<strong>St</strong>. <strong>Lucia</strong> Environmental Profile, 1991.<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 12
Table 1. Waterbirds occurrence, distribution, habitat and population estimates in <strong>St</strong> <strong>Lucia</strong>.<br />
Family Species English Name Category<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
(IUCN)<br />
Occurrence Season Habitat Population Estimate Distributrion In-country trends<br />
Anatidae Dendrocygna bicolor Fulvous Whistling-duck LC N N Aa North East Coast<br />
Anatidae Dendrocygna viduata White-faced Whistling-<br />
duck<br />
Anatidae Dendrocygna autumnalis Black-bellied<br />
Whistling-duck<br />
LC N N<br />
Anatidae Aix sponsa Wood Duck LC V N<br />
Anatidae Anas penelope Eurasian Wigeon LC N N<br />
LC N N Ab Government<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Point<br />
Sables National<br />
Anatidae Anas americana American Wigeon LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 13<br />
Park<br />
National Park<br />
Anatidae Anas discors Blue-winged Teal LC N N Ac North East Coast,<br />
Anatidae Anas clypeata Northern Shoveler LC N N<br />
Anatidae Anas bahamensis White-cheeked Pintail LC N N<br />
Anatidae Anas acuta Northern Pintail LC N N<br />
Anatidae Anas crecca Common Teal LC N Non-<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Anatidae Anas crecca NR V N<br />
Anatidae Anas carolinensis NR N Non-<br />
Anatidae Aythya collaris Ring-necked Duck LC N N Government<br />
breeding<br />
breeding<br />
Anatidae Aythya affinis Lesser Scaup LC N N Aa<br />
Anatidae Lophodytes cucullatus Hooded Merganser LC N N<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Pitons<br />
Management Area<br />
Anatidae Nomonyx dominicus Masked Duck LC N N Aa North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Anatidae Oxyura jamaicensis Ruddy Duck LC N N Aa North East Coast<br />
Procellariidae Calonectris diomedea Cory's Shearwater LC N N<br />
Procellariidae Puffinus gravis Great Shearwater LC V N<br />
Procellariidae Puffinus griseus Sooty Shearwater NT V N<br />
Procellariidae Puffinus lherminieri Audubon's Shearwater LC N N<br />
Hydrobatidae Oceanodroma leucorhoa Leach's <strong>St</strong>orm-petrel LC N N<br />
Podicipedidae Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed Grebe LC N N<br />
Phoenicopteridae Phoenicopterus ruber Caribbean Flamingo LC V N<br />
Threskiornithidae Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis LC N N<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 14
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Threskiornithidae Platalea ajaja Roseate Spoonbill LC N N<br />
Ardeidae Botaurus lentiginosus American Bittern LC N N<br />
Ardeidae Ixobrychus exilis Least Bittern LC N N<br />
Ardeidae Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night-<br />
heron<br />
Ardeidae Nyctanassa violacea Yellow-crowned Night-<br />
heron<br />
Ardeidae Butorides striata <strong>St</strong>riated Heron LC N N<br />
LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
LC N N Aa Government<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Managent Area,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Butorides virescens Green Heron LC N N Ad Government<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Managent Area,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 15
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Ardeidae Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret LC N N Ac Government<br />
Ardeidae Ardea cinerea Grey Heron LC N N<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Managent Area,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Ardea herodias Great Blue Heron LC N N Aa Government<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Casmerodius albus Great Egret LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
Ardeidae Egretta rufescens Reddish Egret LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Egretta tricolor Tricoloured Heron LC N N Aa Government<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Managent Area,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 16
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Ardeidae Egretta caerulea Little Blue Heron LC N N Ac Government<br />
Forest Reserve,<br />
Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Managent Area,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Egretta garzetta Little Egret LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Egretta gularis Western Reef-egret LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Ardeidae Egretta thula Snowy Egret LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Phaethontidae Phaethon aethereus Red-billed Tropicbird LC N N Aa North East Coast,<br />
Phaethontidae Phaethon lepturus White-tailed Tropicbird LC N N<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Fregatidae Fregata magnificens Magnificent Frigatebird LC N N Ab Mandele Dry<br />
Pelecanidae Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican LC N N<br />
Sulidae Sula dactylatra Masked Booby LC N N<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Management<br />
Area, Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 17
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Sulidae Sula sula Red-footed Booby LC N N<br />
Sulidae Sula leucogaster Brown Booby LC N N Ab North East Coast,<br />
Phalacrocoracidae Phalacrocorax brasilianus Neotropic Cormorant LC N N<br />
Phalacrocoracidae Phalacrocorax auritus Double-crested<br />
Cormorant<br />
LC N N<br />
Anhingidae Anhinga anhinga Anhinga LC V N<br />
Rallidae Rallus longirostris Clapper Rail LC N N<br />
Pitons<br />
Management Area<br />
Rallidae Porzana carolina Sora LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
Rallidae Porphyrio martinica Purple Gallinule LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
Rallidae Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen LC N N Ac North East Coast,<br />
Rallidae Fulica americana American Coot LC N N<br />
Rallidae Fulica caribaea Caribbean Coot NT V N<br />
Haematopodidae Haematopus palliatus American<br />
Oystercatcher<br />
Recurvirostridae Himantopus mexicanus Black-necked <strong>St</strong>ilt LC N N<br />
Recurvirostridae Recurvirostra americana American Avocet LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Vanellus vanellus Northern Lapwing LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Pluvialis dominica American Golden LC N N<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
LC N N Aa North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 18
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Plover<br />
Charadriidae Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Charadrius hiaticula Common Ringed<br />
Plover<br />
LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Charadrius semipalmatus Semipalmated Plover LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Charadrius wilsonia Wilson's Plover LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Charadrius vociferus Killdeer LC V N<br />
Charadriidae Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover LC N N<br />
Charadriidae Charadrius collaris Collared Plover LC N N<br />
Scolopacidae Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe LC N N<br />
Scolopacidae Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe LC N N Aa North East Coast,<br />
Scolopacidae Gallinago delicata NR N N<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Limnodromus griseus Short-billed Dowitcher LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
Scolopacidae Limosa haemastica Hudsonian Godwit LC V N<br />
Scolopacidae Limosa fedoa Marbled Godwit LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
Scolopacidae Bartramia longicauda Upland Sandpiper LC N N<br />
Scolopacidae Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 19
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Scolopacidae Tringa melanoleuca Greater Yellowlegs LC N N Ac North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Tringa flavipes Lesser Yellowlegs LC N N Ac North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper LC N N Ab Mandele Dry<br />
Scolopacidae Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper LC N N<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Managent Area,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Actitis macularius Spotted Sandpiper LC N N Aa Mandele Dry<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Management<br />
Area, Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Willet LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone LC N N Ac North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris canutus Red Knot LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 20
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris alba Sanderling LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris pusilla Semipalmated<br />
Sandpiper<br />
National Park<br />
LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris mauri Western Sandpiper LC N N Ab North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris minutilla Least Sandpiper LC N N Ab North East Coast,<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris fuscicollis White-rumped<br />
Sandpiper<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris bairdii Baird's Sandpiper LC N N<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris melanotos Pectoral Sandpiper LC N N Aa Point Sables<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris alpina Dunlin LC N N<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper LC N N<br />
Scolopacidae Calidris himantopus <strong>St</strong>ilt Sandpiper LC N N Aa<br />
Scolopacidae Tryngites subruficollis Buff-breasted<br />
Sandpiper<br />
NT N Passage<br />
Scolopacidae Philomachus pugnax Ruff LC N N<br />
Scolopacidae <strong>St</strong>eganopus tricolor Wilson's Phalarope LC N N<br />
Laridae Larus delawarensis Ring-billed Gull LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 21
Laridae Larus marinus Great Black-backed<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
Gull<br />
LC N N<br />
Laridae Larus argentatus Herring Gull LC N N<br />
Laridae Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed<br />
Gull<br />
LC N N<br />
Laridae Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull LC N N<br />
Laridae Larus philadelphia Bonaparte's Gull LC N N<br />
Laridae Larus atricilla Laughing Gull LC N N Pitons<br />
Laridae Rissa tridactyla Black-legged Kittiwake LC N N<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna nilotica Gull-billed Tern LC N N<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna caspia Caspian Tern LC V N<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna maxima Royal Tern LC N N<br />
Management Area<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna maxima Royal Tern LC Breeding Ab Mandele Dry<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern LC N N<br />
Forest, North East<br />
Coast, Pitons<br />
Mannagement<br />
Area, Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna dougallii Roseate Tern LC N Breeding Ab Point Sables<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna hirundo Common Tern LC N N<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna antillarum Least Tern LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna anaethetus Bridled Tern LC N N Ad North East Coast,<br />
Point Sables<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 22
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
National Park<br />
Laridae <strong>St</strong>erna fuscata Sooty Tern LC N N C Point Sables<br />
Laridae Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Tern LC N N<br />
Laridae Chlidonias niger Black Tern LC N N<br />
National Park<br />
Laridae Anous stolidus Brown Noddy LC N N Ac North East Coast,<br />
Laridae Anous minutus Black Noddy LC N N<br />
Laridae Rynchops niger Black Skimmer LC N N<br />
<strong>St</strong>ercorariidae Catharacta skua Great Skua LC N N<br />
<strong>St</strong>ercorariidae Catharacta maccormicki South Polar Skua LC N N<br />
<strong>St</strong>ercorariidae <strong>St</strong>ercorarius pomarinus Pomarine Jaeger LC N N<br />
<strong>St</strong>ercorariidae <strong>St</strong>ercorarius parasiticus Parasitic Jaeger LC N N<br />
<strong>St</strong>ercorariidae <strong>St</strong>ercorarius longicaudus Long-tailed Jaeger LC N N<br />
Legend:<br />
The ranges are based on Wetlands <strong>International</strong> estimates:<br />
B: 10.000-25.000<br />
C: 25.000-100.000<br />
D: 100.000-1.000.000<br />
E: >1.000.000<br />
For numbers below 10.000:<br />
Point Sables<br />
National Park<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 23
A.a 0-50<br />
A.b 50-100<br />
A.c 100-250<br />
A.d 250-500<br />
A.e 500-1000<br />
A.f 1000-5000<br />
A.g 5,000-10,000<br />
Waterbird Conservation for the Americas<br />
Conservación de las Aves Acuáticas para las Américas<br />
ST. LUCIA REPORT_v0 24