Why go
The island is associated with nesting green, loggerhead, hawksbill and leatherback turtles. Green turtles feed in shallow marine habitats, while females return to sandy beaches to nest. On land, green monkeys have a separate history: they were introduced from West Africa during the colonial period. Those two stories make wildlife watching more interesting than a species checklist. Look for turtles through responsible marine outings and treat nesting beaches as habitat, even when no animal is visible.
What to look for
- Green turtles are named for the colour of their fat, not a bright green shell.
- Sea turtle nests may be present even when a beach looks empty.
- Green monkeys were introduced to Barbados from West Africa.
Useful to know
- Follow local rules around nesting turtles and keep clear of marked nests.
- Do not assume a turtle sighting is guaranteed on a boat or snorkel trip.