The Cayman Parrot is one of the
The Cayman Parrot is an endangered species.
The Cayman parrot are endemic to the
Cayman parrots mate for life, and use the same nesting sites over and over again. They nest in rural areas, either mangrove or dry forest, in hollow trees, lying between one and five eggs every spring. The eggs hatch after about 24 days, and the young remain in the nest for about eight weeks and are able to fly by mid-summer.
Those who often see flocks of parrots in the wild may wonder why the Cayman's parrots are protected. It must be remembered that they are only found in the
Cayman Parrots face many hazards in the wild. Development is destroying many ancient trees, which provide nesting sites and food. Nest robbers see a market in young parrots and still sometimes chop down nesting trees to reach the young birds, many of which die within days of capture. Over the years, this destruction of nesting sites leaves the parrots with fewer and fewer suitable places to breed. It is now illegal to take a parrot from the wild and keep it as a pet. In practice, those that were taken before this law was introduced are allowed to remain in captivity, and owners are advised to consult with local experts to ensure that their bird is kept in the best conditions.
Two of the best places to see the Grand Cayman Parrot in the wild are at the
