Cockpit Country- A Global Treasure
Cockpit Country, Trelawny
Did you know that Jamaica’s Cockpit Country…
- Has one of the world’s most remarkable levels of environmental biodiversity
- Is home to 27 of Jamaica’s 28 endemic bird species
- Is home to 1,500 species of plants and several species of amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates some found only in the Cockpit Country
- Has a unique karst topography – limestone hills which look like an upside-down egg carton
- Harbours a complex cave system with numerous natural springs and rivers
- Supplies 40% of the island’s fresh water resources
- Is home to a Maroon community with a rich history and culture that stretches back several centuries (The Maroons originated as a small group of slaves who retreated to the hilly terrain of the Cockpit Country following the invasion of Jamaica by the British. Refusing to be re-enslaved, the Maroons lived as free people protected by the terrain of the Cockpit Country and waged a guerrilla-type war on the British military. The Maroons were eventually granted their own land).
- Is under threat from a lack of economic options and poor land use practices
- Is under threat from the possibility of bauxite mining
Outside Clarks Town, Trelawny
Flagstaff, St. James
Trelawny, Cockpit Country
Flagstaff, St. James
Flagstaff, St. James
Cockpit Country
The Author
8 Comments
I knew this was a bad bargain for Jamaica. Common sense says the people DO NOT treat black people fairly. The even took the same stink attitude to Africa. What make you think thes3 people would change. There is no more safe space. I truly am feeling hopeless.
We are all concerned. Some have already replaced mangrove by industries, housing and over all beautiful urban areas with modern facilities. Those who have not, still in the mangrove, should not they replace for modern living or those who have already , allow them to share. If not , how can we ask them to preserve mangrove at the cost of better life.
I am seeking your permission to use the picture of The Cockpit Country as shown on your website. My church is completing a booklet on the Parishes of Jamaica as a fund raising venture for church building and would like to include this picture.
Church: Wynter’s Acres S.D.A
Location: 33 Parkway Plaza, Golden Acres, Spanish Town.
Dawn Davis
Check out this great website on the Cockpit Country, they have a whole section on flora and fauna.
http://cockpitcountryjamaica.com/main/flora-fauna/
GREAT AND INFORMATIVE WEBSITE, WAS HOPING TO SEE PICTURES OF THE DIFFERENT ANIMALS AND PLANTS THOUGH.
Your shots there are superior to mine not only because my bus driver didn’t stop at the right places but you have a better sense of composition.
I learned the word “Karst” as a result of that cockpit country years ago. Flying over the humps to land in Jamaica from certain directins it is AWESOME ( if I may use 50% of young America’s vocabulary the other half being ” Wow” or “Waw”)
Now I am sure the next time we have to stand with placards to save it YardEdge will be there. Of course now that the world does not want ( or cant afford) any more bauxite we may have lost a threat. It is indeed an ill wind that doesnt blow somebody some good.
exquisite photos next time I visit Jamaica vrom Canada I will include in my place to visit.
gorgeous pix!