Made up of nearly 100 islands, the transboundary Grenadines are part of the nations of Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The area has a rare concentration of seabird nesting areas, that meet criteria for Important Bird Areas (IBAs), including three globally and 18 regionally important sites. The unique concentration of IBAs makes it a vital seabird conservation zone, crucial to rebuilding declining Caribbean populations. Furthermore, the Grenadines support the most extensive coral reef complex in the southeastern Caribbean and seabirds play an essential role in their health; the nutrients from seabird guano, concentrated during nesting and roosting, speeds up coral growth, and supports reef-dependent fish. In addition, fisherfolk rely on seabirds to find fish, navigate, and understand weather, making them an essential part of maritime livelihoods.

Seabirds, however, have declined by approximately 70% worldwide in the past seventy years, with declines believed to be much higher in tropical areas. Seabirds are amongst the most threatened types of birds worldwide. Since 2009, EPIC has developed and implemented the Grenadines Seabird Program using a multi-disciplinary approach to address seabird conservation issues like poaching, invasive predators, and pollution. Through education, we build pride in seabirds and concern for their long-term survival. Through research, we understand how seabird populations are changing and the threats they face. Finally, we mobilize conservation actions through community-based initiatives and partnerships.

Other Resources

Building capacity for Grenadines Seabird Conservation
Grenadines Seabird Conservation Management Plan