Whistling Ducks? Frigate Birds?

On land there are wild pigs still trotting about and some fallow deer as well as a good number of ducks. There is even the Whistling Duck, a rare protected species, as well as other marine birds like pelicans. Barbuda is most famous, however, for its huge Frigate Bird colony in the north of the island - these magnificent birds can often be seen circling high above the sea with their long, thin wings and sharply forked tails. You can get to the colony from the airstrip by a 40-minute boat ride. There you will find one of the most important breeding colonies in the world for this magnificent bird, that can neither walk nor swim, circling and soaring high above the sea for much of their lives. When not soaring (or stealing food from other birds in mid-air, hence their other name, the 'Man-O-War bird'), they are busy breeding on the mangroves of the Sanctuary.

Socially, Barbudans love a good fish-fry get together at the weekend, so it's a good occasion to meet them and eat everything from Barracuda to lobster.

Peace, solitude..

There are 2 hotels in Barbuda, both very exclusive indeed. There are a few historical points of interest at the Martello Fort and Tower and at the ruins of Highland House - home of the Codrington family until around 1790. Barbuda's main appeal however is in its utter isolation and natural beauty and if these qualities appeal then it's well worth the effort.