Exploring the "wilds" of Trinidad
While most visitors to this large Caribbean island associate
Port of Spain as the "tourist attraction" with all it's revelry
surrounding Carnival - truly the islands largest party (called
limin' in trini-speak). But stray off the beaten path and you
will find a wealth of natural attractions. We found one such
place at the Point-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust - a wetland habitat
and peaceful haven where visitors may relax and enjoy bird
watching. This unique situation of industry and conservation
working side by side can also be utilized as an educational
resource for clubs, schools and nature groups. It encompasses
over 60 acres and two lakes within a large petrochemical complex
- debunking that age old myth that where's there is oil there
can be no natural beauty!
Some species of waterfowl which you may see as you leisurely
stroll the grounds (which also has an easy access ramp for the
handicapped) are the Wild Muscovy Duck, the Blue-winged Teal,
Silver Pintails and Hooded Mergansers. Among wading birds you
may spot a Wattled Jacana or a Purple Gallinule sprinting on the
large and ample lily pads. We were fortunate enough to see a
large Anthinga (snake bird) regally basking in the afternoon
sun. This species has recently been found to be nesting at the
Trust.
While the sites were impressive, the numerous songbirds
serenaded us with their delightful chirps. Frequent visitors to
the Trust include the Red-capped Cardinal, the Yellow-hooded
Blackbird and the truly golden Saffron Finch - so aptly named.
Not an avid bird watcher? Baffled by these strange names? The
trust, thanks to the efforts of president Molly Gaskin and
various other sponsors, provides an educational center with
local guides to answer questions as well as an illustrated
brochure for reference.
Our guide that day explained the conservation and breeding
program in place for the Scarlet Ibis - truly a sight to behold.
If you're thinking Pink Flamingos - think again! We were told
that these glorious creatures get their beautiful red color
naturally from the red crabs that they eat in the wild. The
Trust feeds them a combination of foods found in their natural
habitat as well as a Carrotene supplement to achieve this look.
After your nature walk you can cool off in the Learning Center
that houses information dealing living organisms and their
habitats, a unique shell collection and a small comprehensive
Ameridian Museum. All this for $8.00 TT (around $1.35 US) per
person.
Make the trek south and enjoy this natural resource. Experience
this conservation effort and you will understand the Trust motto
- "To know is to love, to love is to preserve."
For this and other adventures "off the beaten path" please visit
out website at: www.livingislandstyle.com