Thursday, February 03, 2011
Results of the Sixteenth Annual Lora (Parrot) Count Announced
More than 30 volunteers participated in the sixteenth annual lora (parrot in Papiamentu) count on Saturday January 29, 2011. The annual count revealed only 550 loras, down from 800 last year.
Fundashon Salba Nos Lora (Save our Parrots) organized the count along with the Department of Environment and Nature (DROB)and STINAPA. Volunteers this year included a group of pupils from Bonaire schools. The volunteers counted in 15 places in the middle and northern parts of Bonaire, including ten areas in Washington-Slagbaai Park, while receiving assistance from STINAPA staff. In nine places, no loras were seen.
The Fundashon expected a lower number of parrots in the count this year and attributes the lower number to the fact that they believe the birds are currently moving around on the island. The very wet rainy season this year and food supply in the outer areas are important factors in the parrots’ movements and activity. When it is dry, the parrots will come into residential areas to find food. When food is plentiful, they will stay in undeveloped areas. To increase plant variation and improve food supply for the parrots, the Fundashon Salba Nos Lora has planted indigenous fruit-bearing trees and shrubs in recent years.
The count was concluded with a breakfast at the entrance of Washington-Slagbaai Park for the volunteers provided by STINAPA. (Source: Press Release Fundashon Salba Nos Lora)
