Caribbean Zoo Gets Capital Boost

Known fondly as the "biggest little zoo in the Caribbean", the St. Maarten Zoo received a capital boost earlier this year when it changed hands to private ownership. Formerly a non-profit organization, the zoo looks forward to the influx of private capital and plans to use the funds for cosmetic improvements, repairs and exhibit upgrades. According to curator Nick Atchison, "We have big plans to improve our curb appeal, expand our gift shop, offer zoo tours and unveil our new Squirrel Monkey Island exhibit."

The St. Maarten Zoo is home to over 60 species of exotic mammals, birds, and reptiles. Don't expect to find elephants and giraffes there though, as the St. Maarten Zoo focuses on the flora and fauna of the Caribbean region. It provides a great opportunity to get a close look at the native wildlife. In fact that's one of the great things about this zoo; you can actually get close to the animals.

There is barrier-free access to most parts of the zoo, with level paths leading past the animal enclosures. The aviary, which features roll-in access, is a great place to enjoy the antics of the macaws and parrots. Another nice feature of the zoo is the elevated boardwalk which surrounds many of the enclosures. The boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible and gives visitors a treetop view of the animals.

Squirrel Monkey Island is already well on it's way to completion. Plans call for a moat to surround the exhibit and offer a natural border to the enclosure. Squirrel Monkeys often inhabit rain forest edges bordering streams and rivers, so this exhibit will provide a wonderful opportunity to interpret Squirrel Monkeys in their native habitat.

The St. Maarten Zoo is located on the Dutch side of St. Maarten; directly across the Great Salt Pond from the port city of Philipsburg. Located just a 15 minute taxi ride from the cruise ship pier, the St. Maarten Zoo makes a fun shore excursion. Indeed, its a great way to get away from the tourist throngs and learn a little bit about the flora and fauna of the Caribbean. For more information visit sxmzoo.networkidl.net or call (599)543-2030.

St. Maarten is a favorite stop for many cruise ships, including Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas. The Spring 2002 issue of Emerging Horizons includes a feature article about access on board the new Adventure of the Seas, and in the ports of Puerto Rico, Aruba, Curacao, St. Maarten and St. Thomas.