Main Ridge Forest Reserve, Protected rainforest in Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
The Main Ridge Forest Reserve is a tropical rainforest in Tobago that covers roughly 4000 hectares with elevations reaching about 600 meters. The area spans both highland and lowland regions with dense vegetation and layered forest structure.
The reserve was established in 1776 as a Crown Reserve, making it the first legally protected conservation area in the Western Hemisphere. This early protective status set it apart as a pioneer in conservation history.
The forest serves as a vital water source and resource provider for nearby communities through its natural water cycle. Local people depend on this area for their everyday needs and maintain a close relationship with the landscape.
The forest can be explored using marked hiking trails, with local guides available to share knowledge about the plants and animals. Walking with experienced guides helps visitors navigate safely and learn more about the forest's inhabitants.
The area is home to the ocellated gecko, which lives nowhere else on Earth and can be found only within these boundaries. Over 200 bird species dwell in the forest as well, including the White-tailed Sabrewing Hummingbird with its shimmering feathers.
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