AGRICULTURE and Marine Resources Minister Michael Pintard has warned stakeholders to comply with Fisheries Regulations as crawfish season opens today.  

They found mates, built nests, incubated a clutch of shiny white eggs and have raised their young. In the game of life, white-crowned pigeons – a near-threatened species – are finally winning, due in large measure to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre.

Hunting of The Bahamas’ most popular game bird and the loss of its habitat have both taken a toll on the white-crowned population resulting in the species’ dramatic decline.

For animal curator, Bonnie Young, white-crowned pigeons breeding at Ardastra is a win not only for the zoo and conservation centre, but also for the species.

 

IT takes roughly five minutes and some prompting for the American kestrel – a small, colourful falcon –to realise it’s free. Discovered around two weeks ago flapping on the ground, a do-gooder brought the young bird to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre believing it to be lacking the flight and survival skills that it would have been taught by its parents had it not fallen from its nest.  “Ideally you want these birds to stay in their natural ecosystem. Not all of them are going to survive but that’s part of nature. We want to let nature do the picking and choosing as much as possible,” said Bonnie Young, Ardastra’s animal curator...

IT takes roughly five minutes and some prompting for the American kestrel – a small, colourful falcon –to realise it’s free. Discovered around two weeks ago flapping on the ground, a do-gooder brought the young bird to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre believing it to be lacking the flight and survival skills that it would have been taught by its parents had it not fallen from its nest. 

“Ideally you want these birds to stay in their natural ecosystem. Not all of them are going to survive but that’s part of nature. We want to let nature do the picking and choosing as much as possible,” said Bonnie Young, Ardastra’s animal curator...

 

The Humane Society of Grand Bahama (HSGB) held their 34th annual Dog Show on Saturday, March 2nd, 2019. Beautiful weather and a host of gorgeous dogs combined to make a successful and enjoyable day. 

A variety of dog breeds from large to small were represented as well as a number of cross breeds, and of course many wonderful Royal Bahamian Potcakes.

The competition was tough as there were so many lovely dogs, but at the end of the day Shrek, a handsome and gentle Dogue de Bordeaux, won the Best in Show title.

Shrek and his owner Derek Miller went home with the coveted President's Trophy, along with a large bag of Purina Dog Chow from our sponsor, and a basket full of goodies for both dog and owner. 

Kim Aranha, Bahamas Humane Society President and Guest Judge for this show, said "“I love coming to judge the HSGB dog show. It is a friendly happy event.

One of the best parts is that some of the shelter dogs compete whilst waiting to find a home.“

Mrs. Aranha, who traveled from Nassau to judge the show went on to say, “I quite literally fell in love with a beautiful big dog called Hunter who is for adoption and can’t believe he hasn’t already been scooped up by a lucky family. It was an awesome event!” 

Attendees enjoyed delicious food grilled courtesy of the Freeport Rotary Club, delectable baked goods, cotton candy, and a Chinese raffle. A bouncy castle and face painting for the kids rounded out the event activities. 

The HSGB would especially like to thank title sponsor Purina, Nesbitt Rentals for the bouncy castle and bleachers, and all the other sponsors and advertisers whose support is invaluable.

Joe Darville, HSGB President said, "This dog show is one of our favorite events as it showcases well loved and cared for pets.

We appreciate everyone who came out to enjoy the show, and of course all of our hardworking volunteers, and we look forward to an even bigger and better show next year!"