During a guided hike on the Quill, the children learned about the bridled quail-dove (Geotrygon mystacea), a native bird that lives in the forest and nests close to the forest floor. The species was severely affected by hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, which severely affected their already fragile habitat. Since then, invasive predators and roaming animals have continued to put pressure on the population and make it difficult for the species to recover.
The group also visited a demonstration plot where access for predators and grazing animals is excluded. This area forms part of the work to try and restore the habitat to more suitable conditions for the bridled quail-dove and support their nesting conditions.
Activities such as these, supported by STENAPA through its work under the NEPP, give young people the opportunity to learn about Statia’s native species and the work taking place to protect them. Building awareness from a young age is an important part of ensuring that future generations understand the value of Statia’s unique natural environment and their role in protecting it.
