If we love St. Barth so much for its crystal-clear waters, it might be thanks to its well-preserved natural reserve. The Saint-Barthelemy natural reserve spans 1,200 hectares of marine territory, divided into five zones: Gros Îlets and Pain de Sucre off the coast of Gustavia, the waters surrounding the islets of Fourchue, Frégate, and Toc-Vers, as well as part of the island's northwest around Colombier Bay. Petite Anse, located within this area, is under strict protection, as is a large portion in the northeast.
Let’s learn more about this protected area and discover how we can contribute to its preservation.
The Wonders of Saint Barthelemy Natural Reserve
The Saint-Barthélemy Natural Reserve is home to a remarkable diversity of marine life, with 183 species of fish recorded in the protected zones, showing a steady increase in both numbers and variety. Among the rare species, one can find the Nassau grouper, the eagle ray, and the long-snouted seahorse. Sea turtles are also frequent visitors, particularly the green and hawksbill turtles, while leatherback turtles occasionally nest on the island. The reserve is a haven for marine mammals, such as humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins. In terms of coral diversity, Saint-Barthélemy stands out as one of the richest sites in the French West Indies, with 51 coral reefs species providing shelter and feeding grounds for a vast array of marine animals, including sponges (60 species), gorgonians (27 species), sea urchins, mollusks (200 species), crustaceans, and fish. The seafloor is also populated by about 50 different species of algae and five species of seagrasses, including turtle grass and manatee grass. On land, the reserve supports 14 species of nesting seabirds, such as the bridled tern, sooty tern, and brown noddy, adding to the vibrant biodiversity that thrives within this exceptional sanctuary. (source: https://reserves-naturelles.org/reserves/saint-barthelemy/)
St Barth Natural Marine Reserve: Rules and Restrictions
The Saint-Barthélemy Natural Reserve is divided into two types of marine protected zones: "Protected Areas" and "High Protection Areas." In the High Protection Areas, scuba diving is not allowed, and all forms of fishing are strictly prohibited. In the Protected Areas, scuba diving is permitted, and specific fishing methods are allowed, including shore fishing and line fishing from a drifting boat. Additionally, professional fishermen are allowed to fish certain species, such as burgos, baits, and coulirous, but they must submit a declaration to the ATE beforehand.
In both types of zones (Protected and High Protection), the following activities are prohibited: anchoring boats, spearfishing, using jet skis or seabobs, engaging in tow sports, disposing of trash, collecting coral or shells, fishing for crustaceans, feeding animals, fishing for sharks or rays, creating excessive noise, and cleaning or repairing boats.
By adhering to these regulations, we help preserve the living conditions of the species within the reserve, ensuring their continued survival and the protection of this unique ecosystem.
The Reserve Extends Beyond the Sea: Protecting Land Ecosystems
The Saint-Barthélemy Nature Reserve extends beyond the marine environment to include several small islets (small islands), making land ecosystems a key part of the reserve's protection efforts. On these islets, you can find various species, including mammals like bats, wading birds such as herons and egrets, shorebirds, and even some birds of prey. Hummingbirds and sugar birds are also common. The reptile population includes the red-footed tortoise, anoles, the Lesser Antillean iguana, the common iguana, Plée's ameiva, and harmless snakes like the couresse. A few amphibians, such as the Martinique hylode frog, can also be found. On the main island of St. Barth, the St. Jean pond is part of the reserve, hosting a thriving mangrove and numerous species. A newly created walkway around the pond offers educational signs that explain the surrounding ecosystems and the various species visitors can observe.
