Nature tour guides from the Bahamas and the Turks & Caicos Islands recently embarked on an exciting field exchange, sharing their expertise and passion for birdwatching in a cross- cultural collaboration. This dynamic event followed the certification of Andros nature tour guides, and was brought to life by BAMSI, the National Audubon Society and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (TCI). The goal was to bring together guides from Andros
and South Caicos for a transformational birdwatching adventure.

The Andros-based certified nature tour guides had the incredible opportunity to travel to South Caicos, where they shared their birdwatching knowledge with guides from Turks Island (bone-fishing) and expanded their understanding of wetland birds in the Caribbean. In return, the South Caicos team ventured to Andros in December 2024 for their own exchange.

Sponsored by the National Audubon Society, this exchange aimed to help the newly certified nature guides gain confidence in leading birdwatching tours, with a special focus on improving shorebird identification. Both Andros and South Caicos are known as hotspots for migratory shorebirds, such as the Piping Plover and resident species like the iconic West Indian Flamingo. The wetlands, rich in wildlife, proved to be the perfect backdrop for this exciting educational experience.

The Andros nature tour guides, trained to lead bird-centric tours, explored a variety of habitats, from the vast wetlands of mangroves and flats to the mystical pinelands of North Andros. They were thrilled to spot the elusive Great Lizard Cuckoo and the endangered Bahama Oriole, a species found only on Andros. The tour also took them to the mesmerizing blue holes and into the winding creeks of North Andros, offering a glimpse into the island's
interior ecosystem.

This experience provided the nature tour guide trainees an opportunity to showcase their birdwatching skills and knowledge of the natural heritage trails of Andros. BAMSI degree program students of environmental science, agriculture and marine science are encouraged to take the nature tour guide certification course to bolster their understanding of the connection between birds and climate change impact.

The exchange also celebrated the rich cultural ties between The Bahamas and Turks & Caicos, with the group bonding over shared meals and thought-provoking discussions on topics from small business entrepreneurship to the price of food. From the hearty breakfast of ‘fire engine’ (grits and corned beef), which was no stranger to the Turks Islanders, to mouth- watering cracked conch, the culinary exchange was just as unforgettable as the birdwatching.

This collaboration not only strengthened the guides' skills but also forged lasting connections with our neighbours to the south, fostering a deeper appreciation for our shared unique natural wonders.

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