Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2017 (#28)

For the birds…
courtesy theo ferguson, yerette
If you’re a birder — or just truly enjoy the natural world — you’ll enjoy these special
places in the mountains and the wetlands. Peak birding season is November–May,
though you’ll never be short of sightings. Sir David Attenborough filmed many bird
sequences from his acclaimed documentary The Trials of Life here in Trinidad.
Asa Wright Nature
Centre
You can spot nearly 170 species of birds at the
1,500 acre Centre, perched in the mountains of
the Northern Range. This was once a working
coffee, cocoa, and citrus plantation that was
bought in 1947 by Dr Newcombe Wright and
his wife Asa. The New York Zoological Society
established a research station here in 1949, and
after Newcombe’s death, Asa sold the land on
condition that it remain a conservation area.
The non-profit trust was set up in 1967, and
the Centre named in her memory. Today, the
Centre’s veranda, restaurant, and reception
are open to day visitors, while guests at the
eco lodge enjoy greater access to the estate,
including Dunston Cave — perhaps the most
easily accessible habitat for a colony of rare oilbirds
anywhere in the world. There’s a gift shop,
and also a freshwater pool on
site. 667-4655
Ruby-topaz
hummingbird
Nariva Swamp & Bush-
Bush Sanctuary
The local celebrity at this legally protected wetland
— recognised in the 1996 Ramsar Convention
as a one of international importance — is
undoubtedly the rare endangered manatee (or
sea cow), which can grow to 3m/10ft in length
and 900kg/1,985lbs! Not to be outdone are the
anacondas, anteaters, caimans, capuchin and
red howler monkeys, cascadura, macaws, owls,
parrots, porcupines, and toucans, among others.
Too many of them are vulnerable or endangered.
You will need a tour guide and permit to
explore the swamp — by kayak or boat (in the
wet season), or on foot in the dryer months.
Pointe-à-Pierre Wild
Fowl Trust
Nearly 90 species have been recorded in this
unique eco centre — the only one in the world
located within an oil refinery complex — including
the scarlet ibis, the rare blue and gold
macaw, and five endangered waterfowl
species. Visitors can see these beautiful
birds up close in the enclosed
breeding areas (thousands of birds
have been bred and released back
into the wild over the years), or watch
free-roaming wildlife as they explore
the Trust’s 32 hectares. Wooden walkways
take you right around two freshwater
lakes. There’s a learning centre and an
eco lodge on site. Reservations are required to
visit. 658-4200 ext 2512
50 discovertnt.com