According to Conservation International, “among the most important bird symbols for conservation in the Caribbean are the parrots, including the St. Vincent parrot (Amazona guildingii, VU), the St. Lucia parrot (Amazona versicolor, VU), and the imperial parrot (Amazona imperialis, EN) of Dominica”

The Imperial Amazon of Dominica is arguably one of the most striking members of the genus Amazona. This large, impressive parrot is characterized by vivid purple feathers tipped in black that cover the head and chest, along with deep green feathers on the wings, back and tail. The Imperial Amazon is listed by CITES as Appendix I and is categorized as threatened. The current population estimate is 150-250 birds. Three are housed in captivity in the Parrot Conservation and Research Centre (PCRC) located in Dominica’s capital city, Rosseau. (Source: Rare Species Conservation Foundation)

The St Lucia amazon is found only on the island of St Lucia in the eastern Caribbean, where it is known locally as ‘Jacquot’. The Government of the island became aware of the plight of its endemic parrot population in 1975… In 1989 a pair of captive-bred parrots returned to their native home with the Prime Minister of St Lucia. Deforestation by humans has been the most devastating factor for the parrots, followed by their capture for food and the wild bird trade and the effects of hurricanes. In three decades, starting with the 1950s, numbers had decreased from about a thousand to a mere hundred, and the parrot’s habitat had shrunk to a fifth of what was already a tiny area. In 1979 ‘Jacquot’ was made St Lucia’s national bird. (Source: Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust)

Thanks to our generous donors, this month’s ecoDestinations online auction features extraordinary eco-holiday experiences that will allow you to spot these striking birds with your own eyes during your visit to the Fond Doux Holiday Plantation on St. Lucia or the Rosalie Forest Eco Lodge on Dominica!

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