St. Lucia is a volcanic island in the Eastern Caribbean known for its dramatic twin peaks, the Pitons, and lush rainforests. Its geography fosters unique biodiversity, leading to specific conservation efforts focused on native wildlife. Visitors often ask about the presence of certain well-known tropical animals.
The Definitive Answer on Wild Primates
St. Lucia does not have an established, wild population of monkeys. Unlike neighboring Caribbean islands, St. Lucia successfully prevented the widespread introduction of Old World monkeys. Islands such as St. Kitts, Nevis, and Barbados are home to large, feral populations of African Green Monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus).
These Green Monkeys, originally brought over by European settlers in the 17th century, are considered an invasive alien species elsewhere. Their populations have caused considerable agricultural damage and created pressure on native species. St. Lucia’s lack of an established monkey population prevents a major threat to its fragile island ecosystem. Although isolated sightings have been investigated, they were not evidence of a breeding colony.
The Common Case of Mistaken Identity
The most likely reason people believe they have seen a monkey is the presence of the Small Indian Mongoose (Herpestes javanicus). This slender, introduced carnivore is widespread and often seen darting across roads or foraging along hotel lawns. The mongoose was brought to St. Lucia in the late 19th or early 20th century to control rat populations in sugarcane fields and prey on the fer-de-lance snake.
The Small Indian Mongoose has a long, pointed snout, small ears, and a body length that can reach up to 26 inches, including its tail. Its rapid, ground-level movements and body shape can be momentarily confusing to someone expecting a small primate. This diurnal species is an invasive pest that preys upon native ground-nesting birds and reptiles, threatening the island’s unique fauna. Its quick demeanor often leads to misidentification.
St. Lucia’s Unique Native Fauna
St. Lucia’s true ecological treasures are its endemic species, found nowhere else in the world. The most celebrated example is the St. Lucia Parrot (Amazona versicolor), the nation’s national bird. This large, colorful parrot is a conservation success story, with its population rebounding from a low of about 150 individuals in the late 1970s.
The island’s rainforests are also home to several other endemic avian species:
- The St. Lucia Oriole
- The St. Lucia Warbler
- The St. Lucia Peewee
- The St. Lucia Black Finch
The existence of these native animals highlights the importance of maintaining St. Lucia’s status as an island free from established invasive primate populations.