WildLife Wild Thoughts Part 1

Barbados is known for many things. Our beautiful beaches, our amazing food, incredible views and our deep history. But what we aren't really known for is our wildlife. Don't get me wrong, our wildlife is interesting and varied with some unique creatures. But this is probably one island you can mark safe on Facebook from wild animal attacks.

I have a very strong imagination and I often love to give a personality to objects and animals based on my wild thoughts. Therefore, I have strong opinions on the personalities of our wildlife, that I will share with you in this post and the next. Because someone needs to hear it - so why not you muhahahhaa😂 Here are the first three:

The Cute Recluse- There are no lion, tigers, crocodiles or bears to be found in the wild. My personal comfort is we also don't have any big or poisonous snakes nor massive spiders. In fact, the smallest snake in the world-the Barbados Thread snake- is the only snake found here naturally. This itsy, teeny, weeny snake only grows to around 3-4 inches. It can fit in your palm! It is not poisonous and honestly, just looks like a long worm at first glance. Found mainly in gully and wooded areas, you may be tempted to seek one out, but you may never be able to find one in your lifetime(or short holiday). These creatures prefer a subterranean lifestyle and because they can easily be mistaken for a worm, they are probably the most elusive to find in the Barbados wild.

The Al Capones- The most iconic wildlife creature on the island is the Green Monkey. Don't let their cute faces and funny antics fool you. These aren't jesters, they are a militarized food crime syndicate. With look outs, quick paws and the "muscle", you do not want to be the obstacle standing between them and the food they desire. Always in groups, this mob descends on your yard, sets up a perimeter and raid your fruit trees in a blink of the eye. You should think of the fruit stolen as them "shaking you down for protection money". Just like thugs, they do the most outrageous things just because they can. For example, picking and biting a fruit once, only to discard it to the side so you know they have been there. And the Green Monkeys expect you to accept the audacious behavior! Otherwise, the moment you retaliate and defend your boundaries, you may find yourself in a 1 v 30 throwing match with them. These mobsters also hold a grudge so be wary of engaging them in the wild. ( It is general a good rule of thumb to not approach or engage any wild animals that you may encounter.)

The Green Monkey- this is the "lookout" of the gang who alerted the others to my approach for this picture.

The Singing Divas- As night descends on the island, what for most would be a curtain call on the day, is the opening act for the littlest creatures with the biggest voice- the Whistling Frog. Nature's best throat singers take away the silence of the night, becoming a continuous hum that lulls you to sleep. For your first night in Barbados, they may seem extremely loud, but by your second, these divas become part of the nights charm. So much so that it becomes eerily silent, if they aren't singing outside your window... almost as if you have fallen into a void. The frogs are roughly 2 cm in total length and enjoy feeding on small creatures such as ants. They rest hidden during the day and are most active at night. They enjoy damp spaces such as flower beds and grass, but often times find themselves hiding in the corner of your home. They mean no harm. Its just that in true Diva fashion, they took a wrong turn and ended up indoors. They are safe to touch so gently relocating them to the outside is always the best course of action. Be aware they have very powerful legs for something so small and are able to jump quite high for something its size.

Whistling Frog

These three animals have a lot of personality don't they? Next time, I'll tell you what I think of the personalities of 3 more wildlife creatures in part 2.

Hopefully one day you can experience their personalities for yourself when you come to Barbados- I and TourLife Barbados would love to hear what personalities you think they might have!

See you on Tour!

-Kle

✌️ & ❤️