| Because Jamaica attracts bird watchers from around the world, we believed Jamaica Today wouldn't be complete without this page. We asked the Gosse Bird Club to supply the information and gave them a page of their own in return. |
Jamai
ca has more endemic bird species
than any other caribbean island and most other oceanic islands around the
world. This is quite remarkable since scientific evidence shows the other
Greater Antillen islands have been inhabited with birds at least 30 million
years longer than Jamaica, which was the last island in this group to acquire
terrestrial life.
Many of Jamaica's birds are faced with serious threats to their existence and survival. Already, three species only known here have disappeared and are now considered extinct. The major threats to birds in Jamaica are: habitat loss because of deforestation; poaching; pesticidal abuse; improper garbage disposal; predators such as rats, cats, dogs and mongoose; and competing species.
Under Jarnaican Law it is illegal to hurt, harass, capture, or be in the possession of the whole or part of any native bird species, their nests or eggs |
The Jamaican Owl or Patoo is not obviously related to other species in Jamaica or the world. It is one of five birds that is endemic not only as a specie, but it is also taxonomic of the genus. This nocturnal bird feeds on frogs, insects and mice. It has no natural enemies. Unfortunately, they are often killed by people who see them as a sign of death or bad luck. In some rural areas people are taught to respond to an owl's calling with "Peppa, you mamma, you pappa, you brute you" before the owl stops or you or one of your loved-ones will die.
