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Haiti

Status and distribution

Optimal manatee habitat occurs along the coast of Haiti, however very few (8) animals were sighted during a complete aerial survey in 1982. These individuals were either at one of such areas or travelling between them, in a very restricted portion of the western coast, between Montrouis and Gonaives (Rathbun et al. 1985). Interviews with local residents indicated that manatee numbers in Haiti have dramatically decreased in the past 50 years to the point that sightings and intentional takes are rare. In the late 1970's the Bay of Jacmel was said to harbor a manatee population (Rathbun et al. 1985).

Major threats and conservation problems

Accidental entanglement in fishing nets, specifically in beach seines, represents the greatest threat to manatee survival in Haiti.

Socio-economic significance of the species to local communities

Despite the very reduced numbers manatees may represent a source of protein for the impoverished people of Haiti.

National legislation and conservation measures

In a country of extreme poverty support for manatee conservation if bound to be minimum. There is no conservation education programme in the country and the government wildlife agency is does not have the personnel or equipment to enforce any legislation. Haiti has not signed the CITES Convention nor the SPAW Protocol.

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