Caroni Bird Sanctuary

Fielding’s Caribbean. By Margaret Zellets. 1983. P. 826

Caroni Bird Sanctuary, where you can see the scarlet ibis, the heronries of the white and blue heron, as well as streaked herons and hundreds of other birds who live in this 437 acre swampland, is less than 10 miles south of Port of Spain. I made my first trip here in one of the small boats of David Ramsahai & Sons, moved to wake up in time for the 4:30 a m departure party by the Ramsahai folder which said “You are planning a vacation away from the maddening crowds. Come visit with us; enjoy the cultures of the world in a nutshell Trinidad. . . . First stop on this spectacular journey is at the feeding grounds, a stretch of shallow water in which small fish, crabs and shrimps abound: hundreds of Ibis pecking at their unsuspecting prey, is a sight to behold. Southwards, flying in unionism [sic] against the blue skies, the Scarlet Ibis appear on the horizon. The Ibis at home. The sun sets. Enveloping us in a beautiful cloak of peace. Other species of birds are Egrets, Herons, Spoonbills, Jacamas, Kingfishes and more and more in the deeper waters of the river; Tarpon, Salmon, Mollet, Snookers and others make good fishing. Our boats depart 4:30 a m. and 4 p.m. each day of the year. Come, be our guest, we are anxious to share our good fortune with you.” The only problem with all of this is that the David Ramsahai heartfelt enthusiasm is hard to come by these days. Tours to the Caroni Swamp by Hub have turned into routine affairs—a job for the driver / guide and sometimes a bore for you. If you are lucky enough to get a good guide, know your birds, or can go with someone who does, the experience can be fascinating. Tours operate on regular “schedules” and you’ll have to plan in advance.