Casa de Campo and La Romana Bayahibe’s charm not only attracts thousands of people every year, it’s also one of the favorite places for many other animal species. Recently we shared 10 awesome marine animals that inhabit our shores, and this time we share with you 3 species that live close by which are in danger of extinction and whose conservation is in our hands.
Our friends in the Dominican Foundation for Marine Research (FUNDEMAR), in partnership with The Humane Society International, are developing a public campaign for the protection of wildlife in the Southeastern part of the country (that’s us!), with which they seek to raise awareness for us to take care for and protect these animals in danger of extinction.
The campaign focuses especially on three species that are extremely threatened by hunting and trafficking, activities that violate the Law of Environment and Natural Resources. The three species are:
1. The Hispaniola Parrot (Amazona ventralis): is one of the most endangered birds by trafficking due to an increasing demand to have it as a pet (love that kills!). Due to its high demand, hunters loot and destroy the nests and some even directly cut the trees, affecting not only the little ones, but our environment, reducing the habitat the adult parrots need to mate and nest.
As you can see, during the nesting process they are very vulnerable and are often captured to sell their meat and eat their eggs. The hawksbill is also used for making crafts, especially items such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets and purses.
We are very sad to see jewelry made with tortoise shell in stores. Please refrain from buying it and make sure to denounce them!
You can help save these vulnerable species refraining from eating their meat and buying crafts made with them or parts of them. Additionally, you should denounce those carrying out these illegal activities. If we all respect the laws, we can preserve this treasure of Dominican heritage!
Get in touch with the Ministry of Environment at 1-200-567-4300
About FUNDEMAR
FUNDEMAR is an organization dedicated to promote, advise, and plan the sustainable use of marine ecosystems and their resources through research, education and conservation policies. It has a technical team with scientific rigor, dedication to service and efficiency capable of performing actions and projects aimed at achieving the objectives of the organization.
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