Endangered Animals in Jamaica

A wide variety of animal species are found in Jamaica. A number of animals in Jamaica are included in the endangered animals list, although many are protected under the Jamaica's Wildlife Protection Act. Here, we discuss about some of the endangered animals in Jamaica:

American Crocodile: It is the largest reptile in the region, and is the only member of the crocodile family living in Jamaica. They inhabit the wetlands along the southern coast of the nation. Habitat loss is the cause of their declining numbers.

Jamaican Iguana: This species of lizard was believed to have become extinct, but have been rediscovered recently. It is the rarest species of lizard in the world with only 50 individuals alive. It is found in the Hellshire hills in southeast Jamaica. It feeds on leaves, flowers, and fruits, but sometimes also eats insects and snails.

The introduction of Indian mongoose as a snake-control measure has caused a decline in their numbers. Charcoal industry is another threat to this endangered animal. According to International Iguana Foundation, intensive conservation efforts have shown positive results.

Head start facility at Hope Zoo is being used for the rearing of eggs and hatchlings, which are brought from the wild. "Head Starting" is the process of rearing the young lizards until they are large enough to survive in the wild, and can take care of themselves from the predators.

A health screening of the species is also carried out by the Hope Zoo before the release of the animals in the wild. It helps in identifying the potential future diseases and health problems. In addition to it, a program of captive breeding is being used to improve their numbers.

Jamaican Giant Swallowtail Butterfly: It is the largest butterfly in the Caribbean Islands. Some isolated populations of them live only in Jamaica. Loss of habitat and commercial trading of this endangered species of butterfly has threatened their existence.

According to Earth's Endangered Creatures, conservation efforts to protect them are underway. Captive breeding programs, legal protection from collectors and a national park for this species has been created.

Jamaican Blackbird: They are found in an area known as cockpit country, in Jamaica. It is an area of great importance for the survival of this endangered animal. Habitat loss due to continual deforestation and air pollution from caustic dust due to mining activities in the region has made them endangered.

Jamaican Boa: They are also known as the Yellow snake, and were once found throughout Jamaica. They are neither aggressive nor poisonous, but their numbers have decline due to European colonization of the region in the 16th century.

Moreover, according to Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, introduction of non-native animals such as mongooses, dogs, cats, and pigs have endangered them. Habitat destruction and persecution by human beings have also made it difficult for them to survive.

Therefore, with determined conservation efforts you can ensure a better living place for the endangered animals in Jamaica.