Overview
The Syndicate area is an area in Dominica which was formerly a plantation, but now it is known for the regrown and quite old forest which harbors several of the most sought after species in Dominica, including both of the endemic parrots. The forest seen in the image above seems quite light. This is rather recent and will probably not last long; it is the result of a recent storm breaking off plenty of branches.
Birds
Photo by njlarsen
Notable Species
Most notable in the Syndicate area are the two endemic parrots, Red-necked Parrot and Imperial Parrot. Most other interesting species in Dominica, including most of the regional endemics can also be seen in this area, including for example Blue-headed Hummingbird and Plumbeous Warbler. The Antillean Euphonia is here represented by a subspecies with very minor difference between male and female; a split waiting to happen. In the lower parts of the access road you should watch for Red-legged Thrush which in the Lesser Antilles is found only in Dominica.
Rarities
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Check-list
Birds you can see here include:
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Other Wildlife
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Site Information
The road and parking lot in front of the visitor center (see "Access and Facilities") is often very good for seeing the Red-necked Parrot. Some of the flycatchers are also easier in this edge habitat. The access to the Nature Trail is through the center. In the forest, in addition to the birdlife, you should enjoy the spectacular vegetation. At the far end of this loop trail is the lookout that is famous for giving the possibility of seeing the Imperial Parrot (Sisserou among locals). Your chance of actually finding one of these birds increases a lot if you hire the best bird guide on the island, Bertrand Jno Baptiste. If you are able to walk quietly and come early or late in the day, you should also have a chance of seeing the local form of Agouti (a mammal) and Ruddy Quail-Dove (Bridled Quail-Dove is very rare in Dominica; probably only occurs as a vagrant).
History and Use
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Areas of Interest
The B on the map is approximate location for the start of the trail to Mont Diablotin. The forest near the trails lower parts usually are good for Forest Thrush and Brown Trembler. Parrots are normally seen between the point "A" in the map and the visitor center. Between A and B is a creek crossing which often is a good place for Blue-headed Hummingbird.
Access and Facilities
The Syndicate area is found at the end of a side road going east from the main road between Roseau and Portsmouth. Coming from Roseau, the turn-of is to the right shortly after the village of Dublanc, and is clearly marked with large signs showing the parrots. Following the asphalt road requires using the low shifts as the road is steep in places, and negociating with approaching trafic where to be able to pull half off the road to give room. At the very end, you will find the parkinglot in front of the recently built, wooden visitor center which contains restrooms, a little shop, and an exhibition explaining about the geography and history of the area. Most often, there will be a guard on duty cheching that you have your site-pass for visiting; as long as the shop is open, you can purchase that on location.
Contact Details
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External Links
Recommended Citation
- BirdForum Opus contributors. (2024) Syndicate. In: BirdForum, the forum for wild birds and birding. Retrieved 29 April 2024 from https://www.birdforum.net/opus/Syndicate
