While most visitors to this large Caribbean island associate Port of Spain as the tourist attraction with all its revelry surrounding Carnival truly the islands largest party (called limin in trini-speak). But stray off the beaten path and you will find a wealth of natural attractions. We found one such place at the Point-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust a wetland habitat and peaceful haven where visitors may relax and enjoy bird watching. This unique situation of industry and conservation working side by side can also be utilized as an educational resource for clubs, schools and nature groups. It encompasses over 60 acres and two lakes within a large petrochemical complex debunking that age old myth that wheres there is oil there can be no natural beauty! Some species of waterfowl which you may see as you leisurely stroll the grounds (which also has an easy access ramp for the handicapped) are the Wild Muscovy Duck, the Blue-winged Teal, Silver Pintails and Hooded Mergansers. Among wading birds you may spot a Wattled Jacana or a Purple Gallinule sprinting on the large and ample lily pads. We were fortunate enough to see a large Anthinga (snake bird) regally basking in the afternoon sun. This species has recently been found to be nesting at the Trust. While the sites were impressive, the numerous songbirds serenaded us with their delightful chirps. Frequent visitors to the Trust include the Red-capped Cardinal, the Yellow-hooded Blackbird and the truly golden Saffron Finch so aptly named. Not an avid bird watcher? Baffled by these strange names? The trust, thanks to the efforts of president Molly Gaskin and various other sponsors, provides an educational center with local guides to answer questions as well as an illustrated brochure for reference. Our guide that day explained the conservation and breeding program in place for the Scarlet Ibis truly a sight to behold. If youre thinking Pink Flamingos think again! We were told that these glorious creatures get their beautiful red color naturally from the red crabs that they eat in the wild. The Trust feeds them a combination of foods found in their natural habitat as well as a Carrotene supplement to achieve this look. After your nature walk you can cool off in the Learning Center that houses information dealing living organisms and their habitats, a unique shell collection and a small comprehensive Ameridian Museum. All this for $8.00 TT (around $1.35 US) per person. Make the trek south and enjoy this natural resource. Experience this conservation effort and you will understand the Trust motto To know is to love, to love is to preserve. For this and other adventures off the beaten path please visit out website at: www.livingislandstyle.com |
