March 3, 2021 is celebrated as World Wildlife Day under the theme "Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet", as a way to promote forest and forest wildlife management models and practices that accommodate both human well-being and the long-term conservation of forests, forest-dwelling species of wild fauna and flora and the ecosystems they sustain, and promote the value of traditional practices and knowledge that contribute to establishing a more sustainable relationship with these crucial natural systems. This aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals 1, 12, 13 and 15, and their wide-ranging commitments on alleviating poverty, ensuring sustainable use of resources, and on conserving life land. Read More @ https://www.wildlifeday.org/

The Jamaican Government is currently taking steps to protect and preserve the island’s wildlife and habitats. Wildlife in Jamaica incorporates:

·         Several species of birds over 20 of which are indigenous

·         Marine life including manatees and dolphins

·         Plants such as the Blue Mahoe (National Tree) and the Lignum Vitae (National Flower)

·         Mammals including the popular mongoose and coney

·         Insects like the notable and endangered Giant Swallowtail butterfly

The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) is the Government entity that manages and protects Jamaica’s biodiversity. In addition, the Forestry Department is responsible for the control and preservation of the country’s forest resources. Read More @ https://jis.gov.jm/information/get-the-facts/get-the-facts-protection-of-wildlife-in-jamaica/

For programmes, research and other activities linked to Wildlife visit:

Natural Products Institute: https://www.mona.uwi.edu/npi/

The Biotechnology Centre: https://www.mona.uwi.edu/biotech/

Centre for Marine Sciences: https://www.mona.uwi.edu/cms/

Department of Life Sciences: https://www.mona.uwi.edu/lifesciences/