Dominica's Flora & Fauna
Vertical swaths of greenery surge to the sky: no wonder the Caribs named our island 'Waitukubuli' meaning "Tall Is Her Body." These mountains hide waterfalls, lakes and canyons.
Under the canopies of mammoth Chataignier and Gommier trees, there are 170 bird species, more than 1,000 species of flowering plants, 74 identified species of orchids and 200 types of fern. But no poisonous snakes.
Dominica is home to two endemic Amazon parrots - the Sisserou and Red necked Jaco, who's habitants are protected within the system of National Parks. The stunning Sisserou Parrot graces the flag and is a national symbol. Dominica is also one of only two island habitats for the beautiful Blue-headed Hummingbird, which lives in the rainforest and elfin forest.
The island's endless labyrinths of fresh flowing water - fed by rainfall of up to 300 inches per year- give credence to the legend of its 365 rivers. Whether visitors opt for the five hour hike to the Boiling Lake or the fifteen minute drive to the Watten Waven Sulphur Springs, they will be fascinated by the variety of tropical eco-systems of the island. Visit the Botanic Gardens in Roseau and see the thriving flowers, plants and trees in our capital city.
Dominica is also home to several small creatures including the crapaud (frog), the agouti and the manicou.
Dominica's unique features are as alluring underwater as they are above. Sharp drop offs to the sea floor, fresh water vents undersea, multi-colored coral reefs, and diverse marine life are some of the features that make the island a premier spot for divers.
All these attributes simply attest to the reasons why Dominica is called the Nature Island
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