Tim White

large tracts of this are nature reserves, the study found that habitats with the highest diversity and abundance of these species were largely outside the protected forest areas. “Drawing on historical records and comparisons with other West Indian islands, this study found most of St Lucia’s native forest species have declined significantly in population size with some at critically low levels,” says Daltry. “By applying the IUCN categories of threat, at least six reptiles native to St Lucia are now qualified as globally threatened with extinction.” While these studies come just ahead of the 20 0 Biodiversity Action Year, other countries are planning to ramp up their conservation efforts: notably, South Africa, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. “IUCN through its Countdown 20 0 initiative has mobilised resources to support the Southern African Development Community,” says Hastings Chikoko, head of the IUCN South Africa office. The plan will aim to minimise adverse impacts on biodiversity and encourage and promote beneficial effects of biodiversity. And other events will have a more public focus. The Province of Antwerp in the Netherlands is planning a series of events to celebrate the year. They are planning a publication project on species for children aged 4– 2 and a major public celebration on May 22 — designated the Day of Biodiversity. Threatened: Variants of the Fer de Lance snake live on a number of Caribbean islands but the St Lucia animals are now considered endangered. (Photo: Photoshop © NHPA/Photoshot.) Tim White