NEPA calls on public to support wildlife recovery by feeding birds with fruits

NEPA Urges Public to Support Wildlife Recovery After Hurricane Melissa

KINGSTON, JAMAICA — As Jamaica recovers from Category Five Hurricane Melissa, the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) highlights the urgent need to support the island’s wildlife, particularly birds, which have faced severe habitat and food source losses.

Impact on Bird Habitats

Many bird species have been affected by the destruction of trees that serve as their shelter and food supply. NEPA emphasizes that human assistance is vital for the natural recovery of wildlife during this time.

How to Help Birds

Place cut fruits such as over-ripened bananas, oranges, and papayas in accessible outdoor areas to provide nourishment for birds.
Cut open fallen fruits like breadfruit and coconuts to make them easier for animals to consume.
For hummingbirds, set up feeders with a boiled and cooled mixture of one part white granulated sugar to four parts water.
Thoroughly clean feeders with soap and water before refilling to ensure hygiene.

“NEPA advises against using brown sugar because its high iron content is toxic to hummingbirds.”

Protecting Injured Birds and Legal Reminder

If individuals find injured birds, they are urged to contact NEPA for proper assistance instead of handling or caging the animals themselves.

“All native bird species are protected under the WildLife Protection Act; capturing, keeping, or selling these birds is illegal.”

NEPA’s guidance encourages Jamaicans to actively participate in supporting the island’s wildlife recovery while respecting legal protections.

Author’s summary: NEPA calls on Jamaicans to help birds recover from Hurricane Melissa by providing safe, natural food sources and following legal protections for native wildlife.

Jamaica Observer — 2025-11-08

NEPA Urges Public to Support Wildlife Recovery After Hurricane Melissa

Impact on Bird Habitats

How to Help Birds

Protecting Injured Birds and Legal Reminder

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