The Red Howler Monkey and Trinidad White-Fronted Capuchin have been designated as Environmentally Sensitive Species (ESS), with possible fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment for up to two years for anyone found with these animals.
In a statement the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) said on August 26, 2022, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), Nadra Nathai-Gyan, signed the Legal Notices towards the designation of the Trinidad White-Fronted Capuchin and Trinidad Howler Monkey as Environmentally Sensitive Species (ESS).
The EMA said the Legal Notices were published in the Gazette on 1 September 2022.
“The EMA is therefore now pleased to announce the designation of the Trinidad White-Fronted Capuchin and Trinidad Howler Monkey as ESS, effective 1 September 2022.”
The EMA said with the designation of these two monkeys, Trinidad and Tobago’s ESS now stands at 13 animals, designated under the ESS Rules, 2001.
“The EMA notes that these Rules prohibit the taking, possession, hunting, disturbance or trade of any ESS and the destruction of its habitat. The penalty for causing damage or being found in possession of an ESS is $100,000 and imprisonment for two years.”
“The EMA reminds all that ESS may be indigenous (native) to Trinidad and Tobago or, if not, is present on these islands for part of their life or reproductive cycle.”
“An ESS may also be an animal or plant that, throughout all or a part of its range is, or is likely to become, in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the threats persist.”
“These animals are, therefore, critical to Trinidad and Tobago’s biodiversity and ecosystems and their legal status as ESS strengthens their continued protection. We urge all to learn more about Trinidad and Tobago’s ESS by visiting www.ema.co.tt.”
Other ESS include the Scarlet Ibis, Trinidad Piping-guan (Pawi), West Indian Manatee, White-tailed saber-wing hummingbird, Golden Tree Frog, Ocelot, Olive Ridley Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Green Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle and the Leatherback Turtle.
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