Morne Diablotin National Park

Morne Diablotin Overview

Morne Diablotin National Park, locally known as Parc National Morne Diablotin, is located in the northern part of Dominica. The park, which spans an area of 8,242 acres (approximately 12.88 square miles or 33.37 square kilometers), was established in 2000 to protect the lush ecosystems surrounding Morne Diablotin, the island’s highest peak at 4,747 feet (1,447 meters). The park plays a crucial role in preserving Dominica’s rich biodiversity and is one of the last strongholds of several rare and endemic species.

The landscape of Morne Diablotin National Park is characterized by steep, rugged terrain, dense tropical rainforests, and high-altitude cloud forests. Hiking enthusiasts are drawn to the park for the challenging trek up to the summit of Morne Diablotin, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding Caribbean Sea on clear days. The park also features cascading rivers, waterfalls, and moss-covered rocks, creating a pristine natural environment that showcases Dominica’s wild beauty.

The vegetation in Morne Diablotin National Park is diverse, with tropical hardwood trees, giant ferns, and orchids thriving in the lower elevations. As visitors ascend, they encounter elfin forests, where stunted trees are covered in moss and epiphytes, providing a magical atmosphere. The cloud forest, with its constant mist, supports a unique variety of plant life adapted to the cooler, wetter conditions at higher altitudes.

The park is also a critical habitat for Dominica’s two endemic parrot species—the Imperial parrot (Sisserou) and the Red-necked parrot (Jaco). Birdwatchers flock to the park in hopes of spotting these vibrant and rare birds. Other wildlife in the park includes agoutis, opossums, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians, all contributing to the rich biodiversity of the area.

Park Map

Morne Diablotin National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Popular Species

Morne Diablotin National Park is home to a rich array of species, many of which are endemic to Dominica and thrive in its lush rainforest and mountainous terrain.

Hispaniolan boa (Chilabothrus striatus) – This large, non-venomous snake is commonly found in the park’s forests, where it preys on small mammals and helps maintain ecological balance.

Lesser Antillean iguana (Iguana delicatissima) – A critically endangered species endemic to the Lesser Antilles, this large herbivorous lizard can often be seen basking in the park’s sunlit clearings.

Imperial Amazon parrot (Amazona imperialis) – Endemic to Dominica and critically endangered, this parrot is a symbol of the island and thrives in the park’s high-altitude rainforests.

Crab-eating raccoon (Procyon cancrivorus) – This nocturnal mammal, found near streams and forests, is known for its diet of crabs and other small animals within the park’s waterways.

Red-legged tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius) – Often seen in the park’s lower forests, this herbivorous tortoise contributes to seed dispersal by feeding on fruits and plants.

Mountain chicken frog (Leptodactylus fallax) – A critically endangered amphibian, this large frog is native to Dominica and thrives in the moist, cool environment of the park’s rainforests.

Common coqui (Eleutherodactylus coqui) – A small, tree-dwelling frog known for its loud call, this species is often found in the park’s dense, humid vegetation near water sources.

Giant land crab (Cardisoma guanhumi) – This large crab species inhabits the park’s wetlands and forested areas, contributing to the nutrient cycle by scavenging plant and animal matter.

Tree fern (Cyathea arborea) – A prominent plant species in the park’s rainforests, tree ferns create a lush canopy and provide shelter for a variety of wildlife.

Sphaerodactylus lizard (Sphaerodactylus vincenti) – A small, agile lizard that inhabits the park’s dense forests, it is commonly seen on the forest floor hunting for insects.

Bird Species

Morne Diablotin National Park is a sanctuary for numerous bird species, including several endemics that thrive in its high-altitude rainforests and coastal cliffs.

Imperial Amazon parrot (Amazona imperialis) – Endemic to Dominica, this critically endangered parrot with vibrant green and purple feathers is known for its elusive nature and striking appearance.

Red-necked Amazon parrot (Amazona arausiaca) – Also endemic to Dominica, this colorful parrot is commonly seen flying over the park’s forests, recognized by its bright red and green plumage.

Plumbeous warbler (Setophaga plumbea) – A small, endemic warbler that forages in the park’s dense forest understory, feeding on insects and small invertebrates while making its melodious calls.

Rufous-throated solitaire (Myadestes genibarbis) – This medium-sized bird is known for its rich, flutelike song and is often found in the park’s cloud forests, perched on moss-covered branches.

Bridled quail-dove (Geotrygon mystacea) – A rare dove species found on the forest floor, it is recognized by its white facial markings and shy behavior in the park’s dense foliage.

Purple-throated carib (Eulampis jugularis) – A striking hummingbird with iridescent plumage, this species frequents the park’s forests and meadows, feeding on nectar from native flowers.

Lesser Antillean swift (Chaetura martinica) – This fast-flying bird is often seen darting through the park’s open skies, hunting insects in mid-air with incredible agility and speed.

Antillean euphonia (Euphonia musica) – A small, brightly colored bird, often spotted in the park’s forests, it feeds on fruits and plays a role in seed dispersal.

Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) – This wading bird is often seen in the park’s wetlands, hunting for fish and small aquatic creatures in the early morning and evening hours.

Brown trembler (Cinclocerthia ruficauda) – This bird is known for its distinctive “trembling” behavior, frequently seen in the park’s underbrush, flipping leaves and twigs in search of insects.

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Engaging Morne Diablotin National Park

Hiking

One of the most rewarding and challenging experiences in Morne Diablotin National Park is hiking to the summit of Morne Diablotin, the highest peak in Dominica at 4,747 feet (1,447 meters).

The trail, known for its steep and rugged terrain, takes approximately six to eight hours round-trip and winds through lush montane and cloud forests. Along the way, hikers will encounter a variety of tropical plants, mosses, and ferns, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding island.

Reaching the summit offers a great sense of accomplishment, with panoramic vistas of Dominica’s pristine landscapes. This hike is recommended for experienced adventurers seeking an immersive nature experience.

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Sources

Bradt Guides, Morne Diablotin National Park, https://www.bradtguides.com/destinations/north-america-caribbean/dominica/morne-diablotin-national-park/, retrieved August 2024.
Dominica The Nature Island, Morne Diablotin National Park, https://discoverdominica.com/en/places/162/morne-diablotins-national-park, retrieved August 2024.
Forestry Wildlife, & Parks, Morne Diablotin National Park, https://forestry.gov.dm/sites/22-morne-diablotin-national-park, August 2024.
UNESCO, Morne Diablotin National Park, https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6021/, retrieved August 2024.
Wikipedia, Morne Diablotin National Park, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Morne_Diablotin_National_Park, retrieved August 2024.

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