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Flamingos

Flight for preservation: Haiti National Trust takes to the skies to survey Haiti’s flamingo populations

In response to concerning trends in the destruction of habitat for Caribbean Flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) on Hispaniola, conservation efforts are being intensified. Despite being labeled as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List, recent evaluations point to significant declines in breeding colonies and habitat quality. Since the arrival of Spanish and French settlers in 1781, Caribbean Flamingos have been a familiar sight on the island, once deemed locally abundant. However, the landscape has undergone notable changes, primarily due to habitat degradation driven by human activities. The absence of active breeding sites, noted in the 2003 review, stands in stark...

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A Private Sector Boost for Conservation in 2024: Digicel Joins Forces with Haiti National Trust!

A Private Sector Boost for Conservation in 2024: Digicel Joins Forces with Haiti National Trust!

The year is already off to a fantastic start, as we are excited to announce a significant partnership with Digicel, Haiti’s leading telecommunications provider. Digicel is generously supporting our conservation efforts by donating smartphones and sim cards with data plans to our dedicated team of forest rangers stationed at Grand Bois National Park. Grand Bois National Park, located in the beautiful southern region of Haiti, is home to an array of unique flora and fauna. Protecting this precious ecosystem and its biodiversity is a shared responsibility that requires constant vigilance and innovative solutions. Thanks to Digicel’s support, our forest rangers...

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Revealing the Enigmatic ‘Frog Tree’

Revealing the Enigmatic ‘Frog Tree’

In a recent update from our ongoing exploration of Grand Bois National Park, we’re thrilled to share exciting news about a plant species we previously encountered. Recall the intriguing plant locally named “Bwa Krapo” or the “frog tree” from our previous article? Well, the veil of mystery shrouding its identity has finally been lifted. After rigorous research and consultation with botanical experts, we can now confirm that “Bwa Krapo” is Meliosma herbertii. This discovery marks the first documented sighting of this species in Haiti, enriching the biodiversity tapestry of the region. Meliosma herbertii, native to Hispaniola, Puerto Rico, and other...

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Bwa krapo leaves - HNT

A Botanical Adventure: Unveiling Three Native Species in Grand Bois

In a thrilling discovery for biodiversity enthusiasts and conservationists alike, we are excited to announce the identification of two native species in the pristine landscapes of Grand Bois National Park. Our dedicated team of botanists has been diligently exploring the rich natural tapestry of Grand Bois, and their efforts have yielded remarkable results. Two of the newly re-discovered species have been identified as “Twa fèy” (Allophylus cominia) and “Bwa kochon” (Protium balsamiferum). The third species, often referred to as “Bwa krapo” in Creole, or the “frog tree” in English, has yet to be formally identified. We like the name, since...

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Thriving Against Adversity: Exceeding Reforestation Goals in 2023!

Thriving Against Adversity: Exceeding Reforestation Goals in 2023!

In 2023, our commitment to the preservation of Haiti’s natural heritage led us to set an ambitious goal: to plant 80,000 native and endemic species in the stunning Grand Bois National Park as part of our reforestation efforts. Today, we are happy to share the remarkable news of our resounding success. Despite a multitude of challenges, including unpredictable storms, relentless droughts, security concerns, and accessibility hurdles, our unwavering dedication prevailed. We are thrilled to announce that we not only met but exceeded our target for the year, planting a remarkable total of 85,936 plants from 21 different native and endemic...

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Grand Bois Fire team

Local Heroes and Haiti National Trust Team Unite to Safeguard Biodiversity Amidst Fiery Threat in Grand Bois National Park

In a remarkable display of collaboration and unwavering dedication, the local community and Haiti National Trust joined forces to extinguish a fire that erupted within the borders of Grand Bois National Park. This critical event not only showcased the incredible team spirit but also emphasized the significance of collective efforts in protecting Haiti’s natural heritage. Fortunately, due to the swift action and mobilization of individuals, no damages were reported, and the fire was contained to a deforested area, without reaching the pristine forest. The incident unfolded when a fire broke out, engulfing a hectare of deforested land within Grand Bois...

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bwa grigiri seeds

Growing Hope: HNT’s Nurseries Add Endemic and Native Species to Restore Grand Bois National Park

Grand Bois National Park in Haiti is a natural treasure trove of endemic and native species of plants and animals. Unfortunately, the park has suffered over the years due to human activity, leading to a decline in its biodiversity. Haiti National Trust is working tirelessly to restore the park’s natural balance, and they have made significant strides towards this goal. One of their efforts has been the establishment of two native nurseries in the park. These nurseries have become a haven for a range of endemic and native species, including the recently added species Buchenavia tetraphylla, locally known as bwa...

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HNT team in Grand Bois

Celebrating the Successes of Haiti National Trust: A Glimmer of Hope for Biodiversity

Founded on a fervent mission of preserving and protecting Haiti’s environment, Haiti National Trust (HNT) is an organization dedicated to safeguarding the natural wealth of this island nation. Its commitment to protecting Haiti’s biodiversity is unwavering, ranging from identifying biodiversity hotspots in need of increased protection to establishing and managing protected areas and national parks. Working closely with local communities and the government, HNT aims for the sustainable preservation of high biodiversity areas. The fight against deforestation lies at the heart of HNT’s efforts, with the organization committed to restoring and preserving biodiversity through reforestation with native and endemic species....

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Grand Bois National Parc - Haiti National Trust

New Project for Grand Bois National Park Approved, Boosting Haiti’s Fight Against Climate Change!

We are thrilled to share great news for nature lovers and environmentalists worldwide! Despite facing significant challenges due to the current conditions in Haiti, the Klima II project for Grand Bois National Park has finally received approval! This three-year project, worth 2 million euros, is set to be a game-changer for Haiti’s efforts to fight climate change. The Klima II project is a continuation of a project financed by Re:wild. Its aim is to “strengthen the resilience of ecosystems and communities at risk from climate change in the South of Haiti.” The project will be spearheaded by three organizations: Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund...

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Spiny green frog. Picture by Robin Moore

Two Endemic Frog Species Heard in Grand Bois National Park Confirm Restoration Efforts are Paying Off

During a recent visit to our restoration sites in Grand Bois National Park, we had the pleasure of hearing the unique calls of two endemic frog species, including the Hispaniola Green Treefrog (Boana heilprini) and the Spiny Giant Frog (Eleutherodactylus nortoni). It was not unexpected, yet incredibly exciting to confirm the presence of these species, both of which are listed on the IUCN red list. The Hispaniola Green Treefrog is considered vulnerable, while the Spiny Giant Frog is critically endangered. These two species serve as important indicators of a thriving ecosystem, and we are delighted that our tireless efforts to...

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