In a region that seems blessed with eternal summer, one of the most noticeable signs of autumn is the arrival of countless migratory birds. Leaving their summer breeding grounds in North America, they transform Caribbean wetlands and forests with their colours and songs.
DEMA and the National Trust hosted a number of events celebrating these birds and their miraculous migrations during International Migratory Bird Month (19 October – 30 November, 2015).
DEMA announced the winners of the Primary School colouring competition today.
“Many entries were received, and although it was a tough decision as we were particularly impressed by the submissions, a decision had to be made.” Said Amy Avenant, DEMA’s Environment Outreach Coordinator.
The winners are:
Janear Forbes, BEST Institute
Trisha Duncan, Ianthe Pratt
Daquant Duncanson, Richmond Hill Prep
Brooke Rivers, International School of the Turks & Caicos Islands (ISTCI)
A number of bird monitoring activities were also undertaken by DEMA, and the National Trust hosted a number of IMB Festival awareness activities: posters were displayed in the Town Center Mall and for the duration of the festival. Colourful ‘Bird Buddy’ wrist bands were also distributed during the exhibition.
DEMA and The National Trust attempted to highlight habitat restoration through the planting of mangroves at Wheeland Pond Wetland on Providenciales on 20 November 2015. Four schools, namely Provo Primary, Oseta Jolly Primary, BEST Institute and the ISTCI, helped plant approximately 50 red mangrove seedlings. DEMA is, however, sad to report that upon monitoring the site that the plants had been pulled out just a week later.
“Although the culprit is at large, it is very disheartening to see our conservation efforts, and the efforts of the young children, be literally ripped from the ground. Wheeland pond is very important ecological site for migratory birds and other marine species, and we can only hope that with persistant education that all will learn to value and conserve this natural Provo gem.” Said Amy Avenant.
“Along with birds, native trees are the most iconic features of the Caribbean landscape, and their roots are deeply intertwined with both the wildlife and the cultures of the region.”
