Forestry Department Calls for Urgent Action to Protect Saint Lucia’s Unique Wildlife

As World Wildlife Day is observed today, March 3, the Forestry Department is urging Saint Lucians to take immediate action to safeguard the island’s vulnerable wildlife and ecosystems from the growing threats of deforestation, habitat destruction, and environmental degradation.

It made the call as it noted that Saint Lucia is one of the most biodiverse islands in the Caribbean, home to 132 bird species, including seven endemic species, and 13 indigenous reptiles, of which seven are unique to the island.

In September 2024, two bird species—the Saint Lucia Wren (Troglodytes mesoleucus) and the Saint Lucia Thrasher (Ramphocinclus sanctaeluciae)—were officially classified as endemic.

“The scientific recognition of these two species further underscores the urgent need to intensify conservation efforts to safeguard Saint Lucia’s unique wildlife,” the Forestry Department said in a statement.

“The Forestry Department is urging local communities, landowners, property developers, and the general public to take a more proactive role towards environmental stewardship.”

Without strong conservation efforts, the Forestry Department cautioned, these vital species remain at risk of extinction.

“Preserving our biodiversity is essential not only for ecological balance but also for sustaining livelihoods and enriching our natural heritage,” it explained.

This year’s World Wildlife Day theme, Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet, highlights the need for sustainable funding to protect biodiversity and create a more resilient future for both humans and wildlife. The observance is especially significant as 2025 marks 50 years of CITES—the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora—which helps regulate the global trade of endangered species.

To raise awareness and to celebrate Saint Lucia’s biodiversity, the Forestry Department will host a Wildlife Exhibition at the Constitution Park in Castries from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The exhibition will showcase Saint Lucia’s endemic and indigenous wildlife, providing an opportunity for the public to learn about conservation initiatives and to emphasise the importance of protecting our natural environment and indigenous biodiversity.

“From our rainforest ridges to coral reefs, Saint Lucia’s endemic and indigenous species play a crucial role in maintaining ecological stability and enhancing our lives and livelihoods,” the department said.

“Join us in celebrating World Wildlife Day and supporting biodiversity conservation in Saint Lucia. Help protect our wildlife by committing to be a responsible steward of the environment.”