Case Study
Fauna & Flora works on Union Island to protect the Union Island gecko and a host of other rare and endemic species such as the Grenadines pink rhino iguana and the Caribbean diamond tarantula.
Our work with the Union Island gecko
Through a strong partnership with the St Vincent and the Grenadines Forestry Department and local NGO, the Union Island Environmental Alliance, our current work focuses on protected area management and expansion, anti-poaching patrols, public education about biodiversity and climate change, terrestrial and marine biodiversity monitoring and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods. Fauna & Flora is also raising awareness of the Union Island gecko’s plight among key international policymakers.
Project goals
The main project site is Chatham Bay, which ranks among the Caribbean’s top Key Biodiversity Areas. Our work aims to strengthen the management of this area, build local capacity to become more resilient to climate change and raise awareness of the Union Island gecko’s plight.
Our impact
The project has helped to prevent habitat destruction and the illegal and unsustainable removal of geckos from their natural habitat, resulting in a significant population increase for the species.
Project timeline
Union Island gecko. © Jacob Bock / Fauna & Flora
2022
Survey led by Fauna & Flora and partners reveals that Union Island gecko population has increased to 18,000, an 80% rise in four years.
© Jeremy Holden / Fauna & Flora
2017
Local wardens start to patrol the forest.
© Roseman Adams / Fauna & Flora
2015
Project begins following local request to protect the Union Island gecko from extinction.
Partners
This project is delivered in partnership with the Union Island Environmental Attackers, St Vincent and the Grenadines Forestry Department , St Vincent and the Grenadines Environment Fund and Virginia Zoo.
Donors
We are grateful for financial support from: St Vincent and the Grenadines Environment Fund, Virginia Zoo, Disney Conservation Fund, FFI Species Fund, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USAID, National Geographic, Global Wildlife Conservation, Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF), co-financed by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature, Conservation, and Nuclear Safety through KfW. Funding in large part for The Union Island Climate Change Adaptation Project, Betty Liebert Trust, Halcyon Land and Sea and UNDP.
Protecting vital habitats
Will you support our collective efforts to protect the Union Island gecko and other threatened species in St Vincent and the Grenadines?
Please help us to safeguard this midget gem of a lizard, together.
Donate today
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