Although politically recognized as a single entity, Andros is comprised of numerous small islets and cays interconnected by mangrove estuaries and tidal wetlands. Generally speaking however, there are three primary island groups that make up Andros as a whole. These include North Andros (approximate population: 4,000), Mangrove Cay (800), and our home, South Andros (2,000). The overall length of Andros Island measures 104 miles (167 kilometers) and at its widest points, it’s 40 miles (64 kilometers).
This leaves us with a vast, secluded island in the Bahamas where an array of activities take place among those fortunate enough to visit. It’s a Caribbean paradise to visitors seeking scuba diving, snorkelling, and fishing on its barrier reef, the third largest on the planet.
South Andros Island and Its Impressive Nature
South Andros Island is known as the “Nature Island” of the Bahamas, thanks to its unspoiled and spectacular natural landscapes, and unique biodiversity. An impressive 80% or so of the island’s land has been designated as a nature preserve, including the entire west side. This protection ensures that the island’s natural resources and ecosystems remain intact for future generations to enjoy. The island boasts the world’s highest concentration of inland blue holes (also known as cenotes) and oceanic blue holes (underwater surrounding the island). It also features some of the world’s only tidal freshwater blue holes, pristine mangrove habitats, and marine nurseries.
Wildlife
South Andros Island is home to a number of plant and animal species that are unique to the island and cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Some of these species include:
Andros Rock Iguana (Cyclura cychlura cychlura): This is a species of iguana that is only found on Andros Island, including South Andros. It is considered an endangered species and is protected by Bahamian law. It is endemic to Andros Island and lives in coastal areas, including mangroves and sandy beaches. It is a large, herbivorous reptile that can grow up to 1.5 meters in length. The species is threatened by habitat destruction and predation by non-native species.
Piping plover (Charadrius melodus): This is a small, endangered bird species that breeds on the beaches of South Andros Island. It migrates to the Bahamas during the winter. It is characterized by its distinctive piping call and is protected by the US Endangered Species Act. The US Fish and Wildlife Service describes it as having a brand range but being threatened as a species.
Wildlife
South Andros Island is home to a number of plant and animal species that are unique to the island and cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Some of these species include:
Cyclura cychlura cychlura
Andros Rock Iguana
This is a species of iguana that is only found on Andros Island, including South Andros. It is considered an endangered species and is protected by Bahamian law. It is endemic to Andros Island and lives in coastal areas, including mangroves and sandy beaches. It is a large, herbivorous reptile that can grow up to 1.5 meters in length. The species is threatened by habitat destruction and predation by non-native species.
Charadrius melodus
Piping plover
This is a small, endangered bird species that breeds on the beaches of South Andros Island. It migrates to the Bahamas during the winter. It is characterized by its distinctive piping call and is protected by the US Endangered Species Act. The US Fish and Wildlife Service describes it as having a broad range but being threatened as a species.
On-going Conservation Efforts
In 1995, The Nature Conservancy recognized Andros Island as a vital conservation area for its freshwater resources and the dry broadleaf evergreen forests (known as coppice forests) in its central and southern regions. Safeguarding these forests is crucial for preserving threatened bird species, the Andros Rock Iguana, and the Black Crab (Gecarcinus ruricola) which can be found away from water in the coppice forests. All of these depend on the unique habitats found on the island for sustenance and shelter. The programs, activities, initiatives that the SAND Center carries out aim to sustain nature conservation and protection, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and enjoy its untouched nature.