Barbados Wildlife Reserve
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a four acre stretch of mahogany forest located near the Saint Peter's Parish in Barbados, close to the Farley Hill Park along the East Coast. The site was originally established in 1982 as a sanctuary to preserve and protect a specific species of monkeys known as Green Monkeys. In 1985 it was expanded and is now one of the largest wildlife reserves in Barbados.
Today, the Green Monkeys are accompanied by various other animals which are allowed to wander freely throughout the reserve and among visitors. Other wildlife includes Red-footed Tortoises, Patagonian Maras, Red Brockets, caiman, agouti, Cuban Rock Iguanas, and a wide variety of snakes. All of the dangerous animals are kept in cages, so there is no worry of being attacked.
The Green Monkeys are the most popular of the attractions at the Reserve. They are allowed to roam within and without the reserve and come and go as they want. There are usually a large number of them around feeding time and tourists will want to be present to see them interact and get pictures.
Tropical birds are also on-site at the reserve and include a variety of colorful parrots, pelicans, peacocks, and flamingos. The walk-through aviary exhibit is an especially popular area for tourists to visit.
Children of all ages enjoy the Barbados Wildlife Reserve because it allows them to be up close and personal with animals that they have never seen before. Many of the animals can be observed eating, playing, and interacting amongst themselves. Reptile and bird lovers will be amazed at the large variety of both types of animals. Adults will love watching their kids play with animals that they themselves never even knew existed.
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and costs $11.50 US for adults and $5.75 US for children under the age of 12. Children under the age of 3 are admitted free of charge. The Reserve also provides a snack restaurant and bar, so visitors won't need to worry about packing lunches.
Although the Reserve is safe and fun, visitors should remember that the wildlife found therein are wild and need to be treated with caution. Small children should always be watched to ensure that they don't bait the wildlife into a provoked attack.
