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Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary
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Animal habitat
Yerette, located in the foothills of the Northern Range in Maracas St. Joseph, is a private hummingbird sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and appreciation of these avian wonders. Established by Theo and Gloria Ferguson, the site attracts up to 14 of the 18 hummingbird species found across Trinidad and Tobago. The name 'Yerette' is derived from the indigenous Amerindian word meaning 'hummingbird.' The sanctuary is renowned for its high concentration of birds, supported by strategically positioned feeders and a meticulously curated botanical environment. Visitors are treated to exceptional photographic opportunities and educational presentations regarding the biology and complex behaviors of the world's smallest birds. The intimate atmosphere and the founders' dedication make Yerette a unique center for environmental education. It reinforces Trinidad's status as a global hotspot for hummingbird diversity and provides a serene space for nature observation.
- Location: Trinidad and Tobago
- Top sights: Mount Saint Benedict · Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground · Saint Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
- Nearby: Curepe (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 100 | 61 | 52 | 56 | 117 | 222 | 202 | 202 | 141 | 176 | 213 | 178 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary is open year-round, but the best visiting season is the dry season from January to May, when flowering is at its peak. During these months, many hummingbirds are seen feeding at the stations.
Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are the most active times for hummingbirds, when they feed intensively on nectar. Midday often sees reduced activity; plan visits for early morning or late afternoon.
Etiquette
Move slowly and avoid sudden gestures to avoid startling the hummingbirds. Photography without flash is allowed; touching the birds or feeding stations is prohibited.
What to bring
Binoculars or a camera with macro lens are convenient for close-ups of hummingbirds. Comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended; seating areas are typically shaded.
Getting there
Yerette is located in the Maracas Valley, north of Port of Spain. It is accessible by car; the exact address is provided upon booking as it is a private property.
What to expect
Hummingbirds are fast and unpredictable; patience is needed to observe them calmly. Sit in a quiet spot and wait for the birds to gain confidence and come closer.
Geography
Facts
- Up to 14 of the 18 hummingbird species native to the islands visit Yerette.
- The name 'Yerette' originates from an Amerindian word meaning 'hummingbird'.
- The sanctuary is privately owned and operated by Theo and Gloria Ferguson.
- The venue offers specialized photography workshops for avian enthusiasts.
- Trinidad is recognized as having one of the highest hummingbird densities globally.
- Birds are attracted using a strategic mix of sugar-water feeders and floral nectar.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is Yerette?
A hummingbird sanctuary where you can observe these birds in a private, natural setting.
Can I just drop by?
No, a visit mandatorily requires a prior booking.
Can hummingbirds be seen there all year round?
Yes, hummingbirds are active in Trinidad all year round.
Is it difficult to photograph hummingbirds?
Thanks to the proximity to feeders, excellent close-up shots are possible.
Does Yerette offer any food?
Often a small snack or tea is included as part of the visitor package.
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary: where is it located?
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary is located in Trinidad and Tobago.
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mount Saint Benedict, Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground, Saint Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Yerette Hummingbird Sanctuary: why is it worth visiting?
Yerette, located in the foothills of the Northern Range in Maracas St.
Nearby cities
Saint Augustine
Home to the main campus of the University of the West Indies.
Tunapuna
A bustling town in the East-West Corridor, known for its shopping and markets.
Trincity
A planned community featuring one of the largest shopping malls in the Caribbean.
Tacarigua
A town in the East-West Corridor, home to Trinidad's National Hockey Centre.
Piarco
The location of Trinidad and Tobago's main international airport.
Arouca
A historic town in the East-West Corridor, originally founded as a Spanish mission.
D'Abadie
A growing residential area located between Arouca and Arima.
Curepe
A busy town known as a major junction for public transportation.
St. Joseph
The first capital of Trinidad under Spanish rule, rich in colonial history.
Maracas Valley
A lush valley in the Northern Range that leads to the famous Maracas Bay.
Las Cuevas Bay
A serene, Blue Flag certified beach known for its calm waters and small caves tucked into the surrounding cliffs.
Morvant
A densely populated residential area within the San Juan-Laventille region.
Laventille
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Blanchisseuse
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Freeport
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History & landmarks
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Arima Cocoa Estate
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Mount Saint Benedict Abbey
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