A new conservation initiative aimed at strengthening protection for Dominica’s national bird, the Imperial Amazon, has been launched to enhance safeguarding efforts across the island.
The project, titled “Sisserou Conservation with Civil Society (SCCS),” is a collaborative effort between EcoBalance Inc. and Caribaea Initiative. The initiative is supported by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund and is being coordinated with Dominica’s Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division of Dominica, according to a press release.
Endemic to Dominica, the Imperial Amazon—commonly known as the Sisserou—is listed as critically endangered. Despite ongoing conservation efforts over the years, the species continues to face major threats, including climate change, habitat loss and potential conflicts with agricultural practices.
The SCCS project aims to strengthen conservation through a series of integrated approaches, including expanding scientific research on the species, increasing civil society participation in monitoring and protection efforts, and launching public awareness campaigns to boost knowledge and engagement in protecting the bird.
A key focus of the initiative will be building partnerships with farmers, schools, community groups and other local stakeholders to promote collaborative conservation efforts.
The project also seeks to contribute to the development of a comprehensive, long-term conservation strategy for the Imperial Amazon, ensuring that protection efforts remain sustainable and effective.
Planned activities under the initiative include training sessions, community outreach programmes and partnerships with educational institutions, agricultural communities and civic organisations.
Caribaea Initiative said the programme is designed to strengthen collaboration between communities, civil society organisations and conservation experts, with the ultimate goal of ensuring the long-term survival of one of the Caribbean’s most iconic bird species.
