Aruba moves to protect wildlife
Tuesday, 4 November 2008 12:00 AM
Airport passenger with luggage
Unique fauna and flora found on Caribbean island of Aruba are to gain further protection under a multi-million pound scheme it has been confirmed.
The 12.5 square mile Arikok National Park, which makes up 18 per cent of the total landmass of the Dutch Caribbean Island, will open a new visitor centre in early 2009, extending existing facilities.
Further, a study is underway to plan reforestation of part of the park, together with the introduction of a bird monitoring programme.
Formally established in 1997, the park's goals are to maintain, protect and manage the existing flora, fauna and landscapes of the area, together with its cultural and historical assets.
Arikok is home to a number of species found only in Aruba, including the Aruba burrowing owl and the Aruban parakeet. Two species of snake are also found there - the Aruban rattlesnake, one of the rarest of its type in the world, and the Baker's cat-eyed snake.
With the help of ?7.2 million European Union funding, the park authorities are to establish the new visitor centre, which will incorporate a cinema showing educational films, a library and displays of local art.
New roads are also being built, using only local materials.
Currently free to visit, the park will introduce an entrance fee during 2009, the level of which has yet to be set.
Chris O'Toole
