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Rocklands Bird Sanctuary: A Haven for Avian Enthusiasts

Experience Jamaica's vibrant birdlife up close at Rocklands Bird Sanctuary, a tranquil haven where you can hand-feed hummingbirds and connect with nature.

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Nestled in the hills near Montego Bay, Rocklands Bird Sanctuary offers an intimate encounter with Jamaica's vibrant birdlife. Established in the 1950s by Lisa Salmon, a passionate bird lover, the sanctuary allows visitors to hand-feed hummingbirds and other native species in a lush, tranquil setting.

A brief summary to Rocklands Bird Sanctuary (Montego Bay)

Local tips

  • Bring small cash for the entrance fee, as only cash is accepted.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the gardens and trails.
  • Bring bug repellent to protect against insects.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Montego Bay, a taxi is a convenient way to reach Rocklands Bird Sanctuary. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. The drive takes approximately 20-35 minutes. A private taxi for 1-3 persons may cost around US$80, with an additional US$10 per extra person. Be prepared for a bumpy ride on the last half-mile, as the road leading to the sanctuary is unpaved.

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Discover more about Rocklands Bird Sanctuary (Montego Bay)

Rocklands Bird Sanctuary, located in the serene hills of Anchovy, a short drive from Montego Bay, is a unique haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. Founded in the 1950s by Lisa Salmon, affectionately known as "the bird lady," the sanctuary has become a beloved attraction where visitors can connect with Jamaica's avian beauty up close. Lisa Salmon, who purchased the property in 1954, had a passion for writing, painting, and feeding birds. Over time, her property attracted a wide variety of bird species, leading her to open the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary to the public in 1962. Today, the sanctuary is run by Lisa's nephew and managed by Fritz, who has worked at Rocklands for over 15 years and has a gift for spotting and beckoning the birds. A visit to Rocklands offers a magical experience, with the opportunity to hand-feed hummingbirds, including Jamaica's national bird, the Doctor Bird (also known as the Streamertail). Finches and other birds will also eat millet seed from your hand. Knowledgeable guides like Fritz will point out the diverse bird and plant life within the sanctuary. It is believed that there are over 200 species of birds in Jamaica, and many of them can be seen at Rocklands. Lisa Salmon passed away in 2000 at the age of 96, but her legacy lives on through the sanctuary. Her dedication to bird conservation and education is continued by those who manage the sanctuary today.

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