The Rocklands Bird Sanctuary is one of Jamaica’s most unique
attractions. Located in Anchovy, about 20 minutes outside of Montego Bay, this
quaint little house, is reportedly home to over 200 species of birds.
Rocklands was originally established by Lisa Salmon, one of
Jamaica's first environmentalists. ‘The bird lady" as she was sweetly
called, purchased the Rocklands property in 1954. She spent her time here
painting, writing and feeding the birds. This home soon began to attract
various species of birds. In 1962, Miss
Salmon opened Rocklands to the public. Sadly, Lisa passed away in 2000 at the
age of 96 but her love of birds and legacy live on. Rocklands is now operated
by Lisa's nephew and managed by Fritz, who has been working there over 15 years
and has an eye for spotting the birds that settle in the surrounding trees.
The Bird Sanctuary attracts hundreds of colorful and
beautiful birds that you may see each day. As you stroll around the property
watching for birds and looking at flora,
you will notice the peacefulness and serenity that invite these wild and
free birds to take up residence here.
You also have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these
little beauties while they tweet happy songs and show off the plumage.
Certainly, the highlight of Bird Sanctuary is being able to
feed the wild hummingbirds right out of the palm of your hand. You will be
given a small bottle of sugar water, which attracts the birds that land all around you. The joy and thrill of having one of
these birds perching on your
finger and drinking
from a bottle is truly awesome, once in a lifetime
experience.
Also, remember to bring your camera! You should not pass up the opportunity to
take a photo with Jamaica’s national bird, the stunning Doctorbird. There are many of them here as well.
If you are planning a trip to Jamaica, especially the
Montego Bay area, the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary is an absolute MUST! You will enjoy the exquisite beauty of the
birds, the calm and tranquil environment and leave feeling a deeper connection
to nature with an experience of a lifetime.