Antigua and Barbuda’s natural beauty is more than sun, sand, and sea — it is also home to some of the world’s rarest species and most fragile ecosystems. On a recent conservation-focused expedition, a group of senior government officials and environmental advocates joined forces with the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) to visit key offshore islands, deepening their understanding of the nation’s biodiversity and the urgent work needed to protect it.
This unique initiative, led by Ms. Shanna Challenger, Island Conservation Programme Coordinator with the EAG, included representatives from multiple government ministries. Among those present were Mrs. Denise Matthias-Thomas, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy; Mr. Fergus, Mr. Tyreke Thomas-Horsford; Permanent Secretary Sandra Joseph and CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Mr. Colin James, both from the Ministry of Tourism; Permanent Secretary Colin O’Keiffe of the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment; and Ms. Lashoya Henry, Administrative Assistant. Their collective presence symbolized an inter-ministerial commitment to supporting conservation and environmental sustainability.
Setting Sail: From Stingray City to Codrington Island
The adventure began at the Stingray City Dock, where the team boarded a vessel destined for Codrington Island, a small but vital ecosystem located just off Antigua’s northeast coast. Surrounded by shallow turquoise waters, Codrington Island plays a crucial role in marine biodiversity and is home to rich mangrove forests and nesting birds.
Ms. Challenger began by introducing the group to Antigua’s four native types of mangroves — red, white, black, and buttonwood. These coastal trees are often underestimated but are vital in safeguarding shorelines from erosion, improving water quality, and serving as nurseries for fish and invertebrates. In addition, they provide shelter for birds and reptiles — many of which are endangered or endemic.
A sobering highlight of the visit was the discussion on invasive species — particularly rats, which pose a grave threat to island biodiversity. Though small in size, rats have the capacity to cause devastating ecological consequences, particularly by preying on bird eggs, reptiles, and plant seedlings. Ms. Challenger explained that rats are exceptional swimmers, capable of crossing waters for up to one hour, which puts even offshore islands at risk of infestation.
Codrington Island has had to undergo rat eradication procedures on three separate occasions, each effort costing approximately $50 USD. Though the cost per eradication may seem modest, the manpower, expertise, and long-term monitoring required make these initiatives complex and critical. Thankfully, the island remains rat-free today, allowing species such as the White-crowned Pigeon (locally referred to as the white-crowned dove) to thrive. These birds, recognized by the striking white feathers on their heads, are seasonal nesters whose population numbers fluctuate during mating periods.
The Heart of the Journey: Great Bird Island and the Antigua Racer Snake
From Codrington Island, the team sailed to Great Bird Island, internationally known as the final refuge of the Antigua Racer Snake (Alsophis antiguae) — one of the rarest snakes in the world and the second smallest snake in the Caribbean.
Once declared extinct, the Antigua Racer was rediscovered in 1995 on Great Bird Island. Since then, a collaborative conservation effort led by the EAG, Fauna & Flora International, and other global partners has resulted in one of the most successful species recovery stories in the Caribbean.
Ms. Challenger captivated the delegation with the story of the racer snake’s revival. From a population of just 50 individuals, the species grew to about 1,200 by 2021 thanks to targeted conservation, habitat protection, and the removal of invasive species. However, more recent counts suggest the number has dropped to around 400, likely due to environmental stressors, natural predation, and ecosystem shifts — reminding everyone that conservation is a constant effort.
The Antigua Racer Snake is non-venomous, harmless to humans, and plays an essential role in the ecological food chain by controlling populations of small lizards and rodents. Participants were thrilled to observe the racer snake up close, engage with conservation officers, and even take photos. Ms. Challenger detailed how each snake varies slightly in size and color pattern, offering insight into the biological diversity within a single species.
Birdlife and Biodiversity
Following the close encounter with the racer snake, the delegation was guided through bird nesting zones on the island. Great Bird Island is home to several seabird species, including brown pelicans, frigatebirds, and tropicbirds. Ms. Challenger shared knowledge on their mating rituals, feeding behaviors, and how different birds adapt to their seasonal environments. Many of these species are sensitive to human disturbance and benefit greatly from conservation zones and public education.
An Investment in the Future
This immersive experience underscored the importance of multi-sector collaboration in environmental protection. With the combined support of ministries responsible for agriculture, tourism, health, and the environment, along with dedicated organizations like the EAG, Antigua and Barbuda is building a resilient future — one where eco-tourism, sustainable development, and wildlife conservation go hand in hand.
Mr. Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, emphasized the potential for sustainable tourism through eco-education, stating that “visits like these give us a chance to blend nature and nation — preserving what’s special, while creating responsible opportunities for locals and visitors alike.”
The tour concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among participants: to champion Antigua’s rich biodiversity, invest in public awareness, and strengthen partnerships that protect the nation’s natural legacy.
As the boat returned to shore, the echo of seabirds, the scent of mangroves, and the memory of the elusive Antigua Racer reminded everyone aboard that protecting the environment is not a one-day event — it is a lifetime responsibility.
