GOB Scarlet Macaw Sanctuary Plan Draws Mixed Reaction in Red Bank

The Briceño Administration is moving closer to establishing a protected area for scarlet macaws near Red Bank Village, but the proposal is now facing growing concern from some residents who say they were not adequately consulted before plans reached an advanced stage.

Speaking exclusively to News 5, Minister of Sustainable Development Orlando Habet said Cabinet discussions on protecting critical macaw habitat along the river system began several years ago. An area has since been identified and mapped out, despite challenges posed by privately owned farmland used by residents of Red Bank and nearby Mennonite communities.

“It has taken up some time because a lot of the lands are private and also because the Red Bank community has farmers who have been doing some farming in that area,” he said.

According to Habet, the government is proposing that the area be designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary Two, which would allow limited tourism activity while protecting the birds’ habitat. “If we designate it as a wildlife sanctuary two, they can do a little bit of tourism and have their livelihoods,” he said, adding that the government is “almost ready to sign off on that wildlife sanctuary two for that area.”

However, some villagers say they remain unconvinced, prompting a protest and renewed calls for transparency. One resident told News Five that while villagers support conservation, they are concerned about the scale of the proposed protected area and how it will affect livelihoods.

The resident explained that villagers have long taken steps to protect the birds, but uncertainty over boundaries is fuelling concern. According to the villager, the proposed area could stretch from the Swasey River along the hills bordering Red Bank Village and the Southern Highway. He also warned that small farmers could be affected if the sanctuary is established.

While government officials have suggested that a Wildlife Sanctuary Two designation would still allow limited activities, including access for firewood, the resident remained sceptical.

Minister Habet has acknowledged that community response has been mixed and says further consultations are planned, including discussions with Mennonite farmers and private landowners, as the government works toward finalising the designation.