30th October 2021

Forestry department warned Illegal sale of protected wildlife for Jounen Kweyol such as Manicou

By Ministry of Agriculture

The Forestry Department has seen the circulation of a flyer on social media under the bold caption of "Wildmeat Saturday" advertising the first ever sale of wild meats including the Manicou (also known as the opossum) and the Iguana.

The Forestry Department wishes to inform the public that both the Manicou and Iguana are wildlife species fully protected by the Wildlife Protection Act. These species are listed under Schedule 1 of the Act.

The Department further advises that no permits have been issued to anyone for the sale and purchase of wildlife meat, so anyone who engages in those commits an offence under the Act.

Section 17 (e) of the Wildlife Protection Act expressly states that: A person commits an offence who exposes or offers for sale or purchase any protected wildlife or any part of such wildlife or the eggs, fry or young thereof.

The Department further notes that Under section 4 of the Act, any person who commits an offence under this Act is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000 and or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding 12 months.

The Saint Lucia iguana which is endemic to Saint Lucia is especially vulnerable being restricted only to the North East Coast of Saint Lucia. The iguana faces may threats including habitat loss, predation by invasive species such as the mongoose who feed off their eggs and young. It is our duty as Saint Lucians to protect this unique species which is only found here in St. Lucia.

The Forestry Department over the years has engaged in educating the public of the importance of protecting our vulnerable endemic wildlife species which play an invaluable part in the balance and richness of our natural ecosystems.

The Forestry Department urges anyone who is involved in the illegal hunting, sale and purchasing of these protected wildlife, to cease such activities immediately, or if caught will be charged under the Wildlife Protection Act.

For further information, please feel free to contact the department’s senior wildlife officer, Pius Haynes at telephone number 518-7154.

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