All About Barbados > Nature

Barbados is nicknamed “Land of the Flying Fish.” These unique creatures use their pectoral and dorsal fins to leap from the water for as long as 13 seconds. Their strong tails propel them at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.
Sailors manning slave vessels introduced the Barbados green monkey to the island. The men captured the monkeys in Africa and kept them as pets. Once on Barbados, the monkeys escaped or were set free. The climate agreed with them because today it's estimated that 8,000 to 10,000 monkeys inhabit the island. 

Andromeda Botanic Gardens

ST. JOSEPH. This garden was named for Andromeda, the Greek maiden tied to a rock and sacrificed to a sea monster. Also located on rock, the specimens at this garden's six cultivated acres can be found on a cliff overlooking the rugged Atlantic Ocean. Thousands of orchids, hibiscus, ferns, begonias and palms thrive among the jagged rocks, gurgling streams and calm ponds. The flower garden is also a haven for many animals – don’t be surprised to catch sight of a lizard, mongoose or monkey! Designed by renowned horticulturalist Iris Bannochie in 1954.

Animal Flower Cave

ST. LUCY. The "animal flowers" in these famed caves are actually sea anemones. The cave interior is carpeted with these sea creatures, which include yellow anemones as well as a few of the rarer, small purple variety. When in the cave, be sure to look out toward the sea - the view of the surf breaking is spectacular. Shops (above ground) sell souvenirs and snacks.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Farley Hill ST. PETER. 246-422-8826. Tours through this wildlife sanctuary are self-guided. The Barbados Primate Research center has imported green monkeys to the area, where they thrive among the magnificent mahogany trees. In this open air zoo you'ill also see wild rabbits, deer, tortoises, otters and a wide variety of tropical birds. One non-native specimen is also on display – wallabies roam the forest floor.