The tiny island of Roatan, which happens to be the largest of the Bay Islands, is overflowing in natural wealth and rich history. While many will agree that the majority of Roatan’s wealth lies in her coral reefs, there is still plenty for nature lovers to admire above the water. Read on for the top 6 species nature lovers should look out for on Roatan!
Roatan Island Agouti; Image By Joel Amaya
Roatan Island Agouti (Dasyprotcta ruatanica)
What was that quick brown blur scurrying across the pathway? Was that a guinea pig with hooves? Nope! It was the endemic Roatan Island Agouti - also known as a “watusa” by the locals. The Roatan Agouti, which is slightly smaller than the Central American Agouti, is known for its rich orange-brown fur, and tends to bear a white spot on the chin and a yellowish patch on the belly. Active both day and night, this timid and adorable island rabbit can be found in the bush where it enjoys snacking on almonds, coconuts, and hibiscus.
Yellow-Naped Parrot; Image By Joel Amaya
Yellow-Naped Parrot (Amazona auropalliata)
It’s early in the morning, the sun is coming out to play, and the trees are alive with the sound of the birds. If you listen closely, you may just hear the squawks of the endemic Yellow-Naped Parrot. These beautiful birds are known for the yellow band that resides across the nape of their neck, and their vibrantly green crown. Unfortunately, deforestation and the illegal pet trade has contributed to this species being declared critically endangered by the IUCN Red List. One of the best places to still get a glimpse of the Yellow-Naped Parrot is the Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum.
Roatan Spiny-Tailed Iguana; Image By Joel Amaya
Roatan Spiny-Tailed Iguana (Ctenosaura oedirhina)
If you’re coming to Roatan, spotting the endemic Spiny-Tailed Iguana should be a must on your list! This black-and-white striped iguana is distinguished by its rounded snout, and was finally recognized as its own species in 1987. Known as “garrobo” by the locals, these iguanas can be found in mangroves, the iron shore, and even in urban areas such as the Grand Roatan in West Bay. However, the Roatan Spiny-Tailed Iguana is considered endangered due to food exploitation, predation by cats and dogs, and habitat loss. At this time, approximately 4,500 iguanas live on the island.
Green-Breasted Mango; Image By Yamil Saenz
Green-Breasted Mango Hummingbird (Anthracothorax prevostii)
They say great things come in small packages - like the Green-Breasted Mango! These delightful hummingbirds love to pollinate the local flora and sip sweet nectar; literally living the dream. The males are known for their deep green feathers, blue throat, and purple and orange (hello, mango) tail feathers. While they are easily spotted around the island, you can visit La Sirena on the East End for a special treat on the water - the intentional placement of several bird feeders mean these hummingbirds abound while you enjoy a fabulous meal.
Golden-Fronted Woodpecker; Image By Darren Clark
Golden-Fronted Woodpecker (Melanerpes aurifrons)
Ah, the Roatan island alarm clock. No, we don’t mean the chickens - we mean the Golden-Fronted Woodpecker! If you’ve ever spent a night in Roatan, you’ve likely heard the early morning plucking of this gorgeous bird outside your window. With a rich yellow nape and lower belly, female Golden-fronted Woodpeckers look as if they have been sprinkled with gold. Always ones to outdo themselves, the males top off their plumage with a gold forehead and brilliant red/orange crown.
Roatan Coral Snake; Image By Joel Amaya
Roatan Coral Snake
(Micrurus ruatanus)
You know the rhyme “red on yellow, kill a fellow, red on black is a friend of Jack?” Well…not so much. The endemic and, unfortunately critically endangered, Roatan Coral Snake is known for its timid nature and alternating black and red bands. Although no yellow is present on the body, the snake's venom has been studied to show a toxin-rich substance that is lethal to mice. In fact, its high potency was determined to be one of the most lethal in Central America! The Roatan Coral Snake can generally be found towards the West side of the Island, where it enjoys shelter under coconut leaves or within wetlands.
This list comprises only a small fraction of the incredible wildlife you can witness on the island. Your best bet for seeing the full range of biodiversity that Roatan has to offer is to hire a local guide - just as you would for scuba diving! Joel Amaya with Roatan Wildlife is one such guide who is not only a bird-watcher's dream come true, but is also pioneering the environmental education, documentation, and conservation efforts of wildlife species on Roatan.
