< Previous48 WELCOME THE ISLANDS TIME FORGOT THE CAYMAN ISLANDS IS HOME to unique and diverse critters – some found nowhere else in the world. Here’s a quick glance at what wildlife resides on the islands, and how to get a closer look: BLUE IGUANA These rare local lizards with blue-hue pigmentation are an endangered species that are found nowhere else in the world but in Grand Cayman. Get acquainted with these prehistoric-looking creatures at the captive breeding facility in Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where guided and self-guided tours are available. They also roam freely in the park, often found sunning themselves near the entrance of the Woodland Trail. CAYMAN PARROT There are two subspecies of Cayman Parrot - Caymanensis of Grand Cayman, and Hesterna of Cayman Brac, which is slightly smaller. The Grand Cayman parrot is iridescent green with a white eye-ring, red cheeks, black ear patches and brilliant blue wing feathers. It is the national bird of the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary in East End is a great interactive family outing, where you can observe these colourful birds up close. The facility rehabilitates parrots for release into the wild and is also home to an array of native animals and reptiles. AGOUTI Sometimes referred to as the Cayman rabbit, agoutis are shy creatures that are rarely spotted. A member of the rodent family, they live in the forests of Grand Cayman. They can occasionally be seen in Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, but the best place to get up close and personal with an agouti is at the Cayman Parrot Sanctuary in East End, where you can interact with its star attraction, Lil Bit, a friendly rescue agouti. SEA TURTLE Turtles are an enduring symbol of the islands, as they were a valuable resource for Caymanians in days gone by. The best place to observe them is at the Cayman Turtle Centre in West Bay. Visitors can interact with the turtles in open-air tanks, swim with them in a lagoon and assist the animal care team in feeding them. There are three species: green, loggerhead and hawksbill. Good spots to encounter sea turtles in the wild are Spotts Beach, just off Shamrock Road in the Spotts-Newlands area of Grand Cayman, and Turtle Reef dive site in West Bay. SOUTHERN STINGRAY Cayman’s waters are home to Southern stingrays. These gentle fish can be found gathering in the middle of North Sound at two main sites: Stingray City and the nearby Sandbar. Stingray City is a shallow dive and snorkel site, suitable for all experience levels. The Sandbar is about three to four feet deep, allowing visitors to stand and observe the rays as they swirl around. Stingrays have been coming to this area for decades as, in the past, fishermen would clean their catch and throw the scraps in the water – attracting the rays for a free lunch. SISTER ISLANDS ROCK IGUANA Just as Grand Cayman is the only place in the world where you’ll find the blue iguana, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are the only places you’ll find the Sister Islands rock iguana. With red eyes and spines running from the back of their head to the tip of their tail, they look like creatures from a prehistoric world. They are a protected species, and a good place to encounter them is at Mahogany Bay in Little Cayman. CALL of the WILD 49 WELCOME THE ISLANDS TIME FORGOT RED-FOOTED BOOBY BIRD Little Cayman is home to around 4,000 red-footed boobies, one of the largest breeding colonies in the region. You can view them at the National Trust’s Booby Pond Nature Reserve, a brackish mangrove pond that is also home to Cayman’s only breeding colony of magnificent frigatebird. These birds are among more than 200 species of birds found in the Cayman Islands. BROWN BOOBY BIRD The bluff in Cayman Brac is a favourite haunt of the brown booby, a large seabird that nests in its caves and ledges. It’s easy to observe these birds up close as they are curious creatures. If visiting at the right time, you may spot their adorable pure-white fuzzy chicks peeking up from the edge of the bluff. The optimal time to catch a glimpse of them is in early spring. CHING CHING These brazen black birds are easy to spot in Cayman as they are inquisitive and sociable around people, especially when food is around. Officially called the Greater Antillean grackle, this feisty bird takes its local name from the noise it makes – a metallic, chiming call. There are two endemic subspecies found nowhere else in the world – one in Grand Cayman and the other in Little Cayman. Ching chings can be aggressive in defending their nests during breeding season from March to July and are known to dive-bomb unsuspecting passers-by that come too close. WHISTLING DUCK The West Indian Whistling Duck is the largest of the eight species of Whistling Duck to be found in the world, and is named for its characteristic whistling call. It is classed as a vulnerable species and its range is confined to the Cayman Islands, the Greater Antilles, and the Bahamas. It is most abundant on Grand Cayman and Little Cayman, and less so on Cayman Brac, preferring mangrove and buttonwood swamps and freshwater ponds. At dusk they can be seen flying to their feeding grounds. HERMIT CRABS, SNAKES, FROGS AND MORE A good place to encounter Cayman’s wildlife is the Mastic Trail and Reserve in North Side, as the hiking trail passes through a variety of habitats. There’s a good chance of spotting Cayman’s native parrot, West Indian woodpecker and Caribbean dove, and hikers may encounter frogs, hermit crabs, butterflies, lizards and snakes (none are venomous in Cayman). Take a self-guided hike, or a guided tour through the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. 48 WELCOME THE ISLANDS TIME FORGOT THE CAYMAN ISLANDS IS HOME to unique and diverse critters – some found nowhere else in the world. Here’s a quick glance at what wildlife resides on the islands, and how to get a closer look: BLUE IGUANA These rare local lizards with blue-hue pigmentation are an endangered species that are found nowhere else in the world but in Grand Cayman. Get acquainted with these prehistoric-looking creatures at the captive breeding facility in Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where guided and self-guided tours are available. They also roam freely in the park, often found sunning themselves near the entrance of the Woodland Trail. CAYMAN PARROT There are two subspecies of Cayman Parrot - Caymanensis of Grand Cayman, and Hesterna of Cayman Brac, which is slightly smaller. The Grand Cayman parrot is iridescent green with a white eye-ring, red cheeks, black ear patches and brilliant blue wing feathers. It is the national bird of the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary in East End is a great interactive family outing, where you can observe these colourful birds up close. The facility rehabilitates parrots for release into the wild and is also home to an array of native animals and reptiles. AGOUTI Sometimes referred to as the Cayman rabbit, agoutis are shy creatures that are rarely spotted. A member of the rodent family, they live in the forests of Grand Cayman. They can occasionally be seen in Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, but the best place to get up close and personal with an agouti is at the Cayman Parrot Sanctuary in East End, where you can interact with its star attraction, Lil Bit, a friendly rescue agouti. SEA TURTLE Turtles are an enduring symbol of the islands, as they were a valuable resource for Caymanians in days gone by. The best place to observe them is at the Cayman Turtle Centre in West Bay. Visitors can interact with the turtles in open-air tanks, swim with them in a lagoon and assist the animal care team in feeding them. There are three species: green, loggerhead and hawksbill. Good spots to encounter sea turtles in the wild are Spotts Beach, just off Shamrock Road in the Spotts-Newlands area of Grand Cayman, and Turtle Reef dive site in West Bay. SOUTHERN STINGRAY Cayman’s waters are home to Southern stingrays. These gentle fish can be found gathering in the middle of North Sound at two main sites: Stingray City and the nearby Sandbar. Stingray City is a shallow dive and snorkel site, suitable for all experience levels. The Sandbar is about three to four feet deep, allowing visitors to stand and observe the rays as they swirl around. Stingrays have been coming to this area for decades as, in the past, fishermen would clean their catch and throw the scraps in the water – attracting the rays for a free lunch. SISTER ISLANDS ROCK IGUANA Just as Grand Cayman is the only place in the world where you’ll find the blue iguana, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are the only places you’ll find the Sister Islands rock iguana. With red eyes and spines running from the back of their head to the tip of their tail, they look like creatures from a prehistoric world. They are a protected species, and a good place to encounter them is at Mahogany Bay in Little Cayman. CALL of the WILD 49 WELCOME THE ISLANDS TIME FORGOT RED-FOOTED BOOBY BIRD Little Cayman is home to around 4,000 red-footed boobies, one of the largest breeding colonies in the region. You can view them at the National Trust’s Booby Pond Nature Reserve, a brackish mangrove pond that is also home to Cayman’s only breeding colony of magnificent frigatebird. These birds are among more than 200 species of birds found in the Cayman Islands. BROWN BOOBY BIRD The bluff in Cayman Brac is a favourite haunt of the brown booby, a large seabird that nests in its caves and ledges. It’s easy to observe these birds up close as they are curious creatures. If visiting at the right time, you may spot their adorable pure-white fuzzy chicks peeking up from the edge of the bluff. The optimal time to catch a glimpse of them is in early spring. CHING CHING These brazen black birds are easy to spot in Cayman as they are inquisitive and sociable around people, especially when food is around. Officially called the Greater Antillean grackle, this feisty bird takes its local name from the noise it makes – a metallic, chiming call. There are two endemic subspecies found nowhere else in the world – one in Grand Cayman and the other in Little Cayman. Ching chings can be aggressive in defending their nests during breeding season from March to July and are known to dive-bomb unsuspecting passers-by that come too close. WHISTLING DUCK The West Indian Whistling Duck is the largest of the eight species of Whistling Duck to be found in the world, and is named for its characteristic whistling call. It is classed as a vulnerable species and its range is confined to the Cayman Islands, the Greater Antilles, and the Bahamas. It is most abundant on Grand Cayman and Little Cayman, and less so on Cayman Brac, preferring mangrove and buttonwood swamps and freshwater ponds. At dusk they can be seen flying to their feeding grounds. HERMIT CRABS, SNAKES, FROGS AND MORE A good place to encounter Cayman’s wildlife is the Mastic Trail and Reserve in North Side, as the hiking trail passes through a variety of habitats. There’s a good chance of spotting Cayman’s native parrot, West Indian woodpecker and Caribbean dove, and hikers may encounter frogs, hermit crabs, butterflies, lizards and snakes (none are venomous in Cayman). Take a self-guided hike, or a guided tour through the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. 50 WELCOME50 WELCOME 51 WELCOME THE ISLANDS THAT TIME FORGOT SET IN 65 ACRES IN NORTH SIDE, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is one of Grand Cayman’s top attractions. The magnificent grounds showcase the natural beauty, culture and history of the islands. There are seven main attractions at the park: The Visitor’s Centre, the Floral Garden, Orchid Boardwalk, Xerophytic Garden, Heritage Garden, Woodland Trail and the Children’s Garden. The Heritage Garden is set around a restored traditional Caymanian cottage, and features trees and plants that played an important role in Cayman’s history. The cottage sports a white sand yard interspersed with ornamental plants, a walkway lined with conch shells and a cook room known as a ‘caboose’. The park also houses the Blue Iguana Conservation captive breeding facility, where visitors can get up close and personal with Grand Cayman’s iconic large lizard. Blue iguanas are an endangered species found nowhere else and are being captive-bred to help ensure their survival. A recent addition to the park is the Children’s Garden, featuring a splash pad, larger-than-life animal sculptures, observation tower, discovery pond and tunnel area. FLORA & FAUNA at THE BOTANIC PARK IM AG ES : St eph en C la rke P ho to gr aph y52 WELCOME THE52 WELCOME THE 53 WELCOME SISTERTHE CAYMAN BRAC AND LITTLE CAYMAN comprise the Sister Islands, which are just a short flight from Grand Cayman. Take time out from your trip to the biggest isle to experience the charm of its two smaller siblings, or spend an entire vacation on one or both of the Sisters. Cayman Airways operates several flights there each day. ISLANDS CAYMAN BRAC AND LITTLE CAYMAN comprise the Sister Islands, which are just a short flight from Grand Cayman. Take time out from your trip to the biggest isle to experience the charm of its two smaller siblings, or spend an entire vacation on one or both of the Sisters. Cayman Airways operates several flights there each day.54 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS SMALL AND SWEET, LITTLE CAYMAN are is known for its laid-back lifestyle. At 10-miles long, with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour where the native rock iguanas have the right-of-way, the smallest sister exudes casual charm. WHAT TO SEE AND DO Be sure to visit Point of Sand, a beach on the eastern tip of the island – where it’s rare to see another soul in sight. Rent a kayak and paddle over to Owen Island, a tiny, uninhabited oasis where visitors can swim and chill out on their very own deserted island. Other attractions include the Little Cayman Museum and the Gladys B. Howard Little Cayman National Trust Visitors Centre, which features exhibits on the island’s natural history and heritage. It overlooks the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, where visitors can observe the red-footed booby colony, swooping frigate birds and many other species. There are several nature trails to explore, including Salt Rock Nature Trail, home to an array of tropical plants. Another way to explore this sleepy isle is to hop on a bike and meander the uncrowded roadways. For the more adventurous, kitesurfing is a popular activity, with the protected shallows of South Hole Sound an ideal spot for beginners. Little Cayman has good deep sea fishing and is also noted for its healthy population of bonefish, tarpon and permit. A popular spot is Tarpon Lake, a catch-and-release site where anglers can fish off a winding wooden boardwalk. Scuba diving is another major attraction, with Bloody Bay Wall being considered one of the wonders of the diving world. LITTLE CAYMAN IM AG E: K ati e A da ms 55 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS A slower pace of life awaits on the smallest Sister, with bike riding, beach combing and kayaking. IM AG E: St eph en C la rke P ho to gr aph y54 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS SMALL AND SWEET, LITTLE CAYMAN are is known for its laid-back lifestyle. At 10-miles long, with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour where the native rock iguanas have the right-of-way, the smallest sister exudes casual charm. WHAT TO SEE AND DO Be sure to visit Point of Sand, a beach on the eastern tip of the island – where it’s rare to see another soul in sight. Rent a kayak and paddle over to Owen Island, a tiny, uninhabited oasis where visitors can swim and chill out on their very own deserted island. Other attractions include the Little Cayman Museum and the Gladys B. Howard Little Cayman National Trust Visitors Centre, which features exhibits on the island’s natural history and heritage. It overlooks the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, where visitors can observe the red-footed booby colony, swooping frigate birds and many other species. There are several nature trails to explore, including Salt Rock Nature Trail, home to an array of tropical plants. Another way to explore this sleepy isle is to hop on a bike and meander the uncrowded roadways. For the more adventurous, kitesurfing is a popular activity, with the protected shallows of South Hole Sound an ideal spot for beginners. Little Cayman has good deep sea fishing and is also noted for its healthy population of bonefish, tarpon and permit. A popular spot is Tarpon Lake, a catch-and-release site where anglers can fish off a winding wooden boardwalk. Scuba diving is another major attraction, with Bloody Bay Wall being considered one of the wonders of the diving world. LITTLE CAYMAN IM AG E: K ati e A da ms 55 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS A slower pace of life awaits on the smallest Sister, with bike riding, beach combing and kayaking. IM AG E: St eph en C la rke P ho to gr aph y56 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS THE LARGER OF THE SISTER ISLANDS, Cayman Brac is ideal for those who love nature and adventure. Just 12 miles long, the Brac (as it’s often referred to locally) is known for its prominent limestone bluff. This rock formation runs through the middle of the island, rising dramatically to some 150-feet above sea level at the eastern tip. WHAT TO SEE AND DO A not-to-be-missed excursion is hiking the bluff to enjoy the spectacular panoramic views. The brown booby bird nests in the crevices and ledges along the cliffs and it’s easy to observe these curious seabirds up close. The bluff is honeycombed with caves and its walls are a big draw for rock climbers. Caving is a popular adventure as Cayman Brac has hundreds of limestone caverns and chambers that have been naturally carved over millions of years. Several have access, such as the Bat Cave, Half-Way Ground Cave and Rebecca’s Cave. The Brac’s caves were – and still are – used as hurricane shelters. There are many nature trails across the island, including one that meanders through the Brac Parrot Reserve. You can spot these colourful birds while strolling along a 600-foot wooden boardwalk that winds its way through an ancient dry- wood forest. Long Beach on the northeastern edge is a spectacular hike at the bluff’s rocky base that is blanketed with sea grape trees. Fishing is a big lure to the island, with deep-sea excursions available through charter companies. For a taste of local heritage and history, visit Heritage House and the Cayman Brac Museum. CAYMAN BRAC HIKING TIP Be sure to put on sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen and take water on a hike. It’s hot. 57 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS Clockwise: Miniature traditional Caymanian cottage; twilight from The Bluff; Brown Booby; spectacular skies; Poinciana in bloom; the majestic Bluff; natural beauty; caves abound on Cayman Brac.56 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS THE LARGER OF THE SISTER ISLANDS, Cayman Brac is ideal for those who love nature and adventure. Just 12 miles long, the Brac (as it’s often referred to locally) is known for its prominent limestone bluff. This rock formation runs through the middle of the island, rising dramatically to some 150-feet above sea level at the eastern tip. WHAT TO SEE AND DO A not-to-be-missed excursion is hiking the bluff to enjoy the spectacular panoramic views. The brown booby bird nests in the crevices and ledges along the cliffs and it’s easy to observe these curious seabirds up close. The bluff is honeycombed with caves and its walls are a big draw for rock climbers. Caving is a popular adventure as Cayman Brac has hundreds of limestone caverns and chambers that have been naturally carved over millions of years. Several have access, such as the Bat Cave, Half-Way Ground Cave and Rebecca’s Cave. The Brac’s caves were – and still are – used as hurricane shelters. There are many nature trails across the island, including one that meanders through the Brac Parrot Reserve. You can spot these colourful birds while strolling along a 600-foot wooden boardwalk that winds its way through an ancient dry- wood forest. Long Beach on the northeastern edge is a spectacular hike at the bluff’s rocky base that is blanketed with sea grape trees. Fishing is a big lure to the island, with deep-sea excursions available through charter companies. For a taste of local heritage and history, visit Heritage House and the Cayman Brac Museum. CAYMAN BRAC HIKING TIP Be sure to put on sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen and take water on a hike. It’s hot. 57 WELCOME SISTER ISLANDS Clockwise: Miniature traditional Caymanian cottage; twilight from The Bluff; Brown Booby; spectacular skies; Poinciana in bloom; the majestic Bluff; natural beauty; caves abound on Cayman Brac.Next >