St Martin/St Maarten / Special Interests / Eco/Nature

St Martin/St Maarten is an island where nature is on the back foot. Rampant development, particularly on the Dutch side, has destroyed many areas of natural beauty. Only on the beaches, and in a few odd spots such as the islands of Pinel and Tintamarre, can you get a momentary feel of how the island would have been before it was settled and exploited. And although there has been far too much insensitive building, nature still fights on with whatever help comes its way from the conservationists who are battling to protect what's left. The island is home for over 150 bird species, a variety of bats and several wild mammals introduced in the days of the plantations such as the mongoose, racoon and green monkey. Lizards, including the endemic bearded anole, along with green iguanas and the Leeward Island racer snake are some local reptiles. Hawksbill, green and leatherback turtles still nest on the beaches in the summer while humpack whales pass by in the winter. If you want to learn more about the natural life of the island, the following organisations may be of interest.

St Martin

La Réserve Naturelle de Saint-Martin, Anse Marcel, t 590 590 29 09 72 - An organisation that protects natural sites in the north of St Martin.

Wakawa Eco-Klub, Anse Marcel - A French tour operator specialising in eco-friendly activities.

St Maarten

Nature Foundation St Maarten, Cole Bay, t 599 544 4267 - A non-profit organisation that administers the St Maarten Marine Park. Closed weekends.