The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a habitat in the north of the island that contains animals, trees, and plants. Located in the parish of St.Peter, this reserve is open to the public year-round. The reservation sits on a hill overlooking the plains below that extends to the east coast of Barbados. If you visit this attraction, you will see animals that will make the visit worth it.
The sounds of animals and the shade of the trees make for a beautiful experience. The reserve is part of the Farley Hill area covered with mahogany trees and other fruit trees, and edible plants for the animals. Today, we take a tour of the wildlife reserve in Barbados.
Barbados History Of Wildlife Reserve
According to the historical account, the reservation establishment occurred in 1982 by a Canadian primatologist. It was known as the Barbados Primate Research Centre during that time. The focus was on the green monkey preservation due to depopulation. In 1985, the project renamed the Barbados Wildlife Reserve founded its roots.
Barbados Green Monkey
You can find the green monkey on the island of Barbados. These creatures are known for their destructive behaviors that cause farmers many losses. To save these animals from causing havoc and becoming extinct, many have found refuge at the reserve. Over 300 years ago, colonists brought the monkey to Barbados. The monkeys often leave during the day and return in the evening.
Animals At The Barbados Reserve
The reserve is home to many different animal species; some are local while others are natives. Some of the animals you can view here are flamingos, geese, ducks, blackbirds, pigeons, macaws, love birds, parrots, and sparrows. Some are free to leave the reserve, while others stay in cages. It is a fantastic experience to see the peacock spread its feathers, which look beautiful.
Other Animals
The reserve has other animals that will draw your attention that is a bit more of an aggressive nature. You will see caimans, various snakes, iguanas, tortoises, turtles, rabbits, agoutis, and brocket deers. As you will see, the reservation has a range of reptiles, birds, and some mammals.
Barbados Mahogany Trees
The Barbados National Trust protects the Barbados mahogany tree. This tree, known for its color and texture, makes lovely furniture and other souvenirs. No one is allowed to cut down these trees without permission, as it is against the law. You will find many of these trees in the wildlife reserve, giving shade and shelter to birds and animals.
Barbados Reserve Environment
You can expect to see animals in a natural environment feeding and playing with each other. As they walked along the paths, others’ experience has been outstanding, many giving the tour a thumbs up. The cool of the trees enhances the feeling that you get as you take in sights and sounds.
Barbados Transport
Finding the wildlife reserve should be a hassle-free activity. If you have rented a vehicle, you can use a map, get directions with Google map, follow the signs on the road or ask locals for assistance as you travel. Those who catch the bus cannot find any bus passing directly by the reserve but relatively close, requiring a brief walk. Many people pay a taxi to take them or book a tour in advance to avoid the hassle.
Barbados Attractions Nearby
If you plan to visit the reserve, you may want to consider some other places nearby. The other side of the street from the reservation is The Farley Hill National Park and The Grenade Hall Forest & Signal Station. I will be featuring these two locations in separate articles, so be sure to look out for them. Bundling these together would make an incredible day for touring this part of the island.
Barbados Wildlife Reserve Cost And Operating Hours
For those who are interested in the tour offered by the reserve, here is a quick breakdown. The cost for entry into the reservation is fifteen American dollars or thirty Barbados dollars for adults. Children pay ten American dollars and twenty Barbados dollars. The hours of operation are 10:00 am to 5:00 pm local time.
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a place you should keep on your to-do list when you visit the island. I mentioned before; there are many things to do in the vicinity. This advantage gives anyone who seeks to see more of Barbados an excellent opportunity to take in much more. If you love animals and nature itself, then this is one of the places to be.