Bio-diversity

The spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus) population in the Cusewijne River and other locations in Suriname is under threat from intensive hunting pressure in response to the market demand for their skin and meat. A management programme is proposed that addresses sustainable harvesting practices in which local communities can participate in the regulatory aspects, and also benefit economically. To this end, a survey to determine the current status of the population will be implemented by the local community of Bigi Poika. The objectives of the 5-month survey are to: a) determine the ecological feasibility of sustained exploitation of the spectacled caiman; b) determine the economic feasibility of sustained exploitation of the spectacled caiman; and c) train local community members in preparation for a community-based project on sustainable exploitation of the spectacled caiman.

Suriname