OUR CONSERVATION GOALS
FINLEY CAY CONSERVATION Goals
As the owners of the Cay, we want to protect it. Our project is focused on protecting the endangered species on the Cay and the surrounding habitat. This is how we are going to achieve this:
Bird Banding
We have consulted with the BNT and other local NGOs to develop a conservation management plan for the island, inclusive of a banding program for the White-crowned pigeon (Patagioenas leucocephala), that is listed as near threatened by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). They are native to the island and we are making it a strong focus to sustain their population. It is supported by scientists at the Bahamas National Trust that this would give accurate numbers on the population in order to help preserve the species.
Planting of Endemic & Removal of Invasive Species
Invasive species have been identified on the Cay, and therefore it is of imperative importance to us that something is done quickly to save the future of the ecosystem. These steps are vital in ensuring the conservation and protection of the Cay. The planting of endemic and removal of invasive species will protect the habit for generations to come and stop the degradation of the local ecosystem.
Protection against Unauthorised Visitors
The Cay has been sadly subject to people littering and damaging the surroundings. Multiple occasions of man-made fire hazards have also occurred which could irreversible damage to the wildlife. We want to employ a full-time warden for the island, in order to protect it from those who would harm the life and habitats of the Cay. This would ensure that this risk is eliminated to the best degree possible.
Protection from Over-Poaching
Finley Cay is frequently subject to unregulated hunts which is taking a toll on the Cay’s ecosystem. The endangered species on the island are sadly excessively hunted down, and we want to protect them from further harm. We wish to work with the hunting community in order to agree on the best way to protect the wildlife for the future.
The Project
80% (4 out of 5) of the small structures proposed directly benefit the Cay, with the exception being the small owner’s home. We want to build a conservation center and small housings for the warden and scientists who would like to come study the Cay’s beautiful wildlife. In depth details about the project can be found on the ‘about’ page on this site. We truly believe are impact on the Cay will be positive and, with your support, we can preserve it’s wonderful and unique ecosystem.
Protecting the Cay
The owner of Finley Cay, Justin Etzin, has entrusted the One Ocean One Future Foundation to take responsibility in ensuring Finley Cay remains fully protected.
OOOf collaborates with influencers from the World of Film, Music, Art & Fashion to raise global awareness to prevent the destruction of our fragile Oceans.
Leading ornithologists will advise on all conservation for the Cay whilst raising environmental awareness among staff, invasive species prevention and control and environmental sustainability improvement.
Finley Cay's Eco-Practice
Rodents
A quarantine area will be setup similarly to that which exists on Fregate Island to keep rodents out and prevent further infestation.
Hunting Vs Nesting
We will address the overlap with nesting season starting in May and hunting continuing in Eleuthera until November.
White Crowned Pigeons
Our team will be consulted by renowned species experts on how to ensure these birds, native to the Caribbean remain protected any immune from poaching.
We know we can't do it alone
With the extensive knowledge from active conservationists from Bird Island, Fregate Island ad Cousin island alike, the support of The Bahamian Prime Minister’s Office and its council, and advice from experts like Matthew Jeffrey of the Audubon Society we know that we can provide the enhancement and preservation of Finley Cay in its natural state.
Our ecologically sound habitats will allow us to preserve Finley Cay for centuries to come.
