WILLEMSTAD – Koraal Tabak Estates has announced that it is taking legal action against individuals who enter protected nesting areas of the Least Tern and disturb the birds during their breeding season.
According to the estate's management, visitors continue to ignore barriers and warning signs placed around the nesting grounds, putting the breeding success of the protected species at risk.
The decision follows several incidents captured by surveillance cameras. Footage reportedly shows individuals walking close to nests and riding all-terrain vehicles through sensitive nesting zones along the coast.
Koraal Tabak officials described the behavior as particularly concerning because the birds are currently in the critical breeding period during which they build nests and raise their young.
To safeguard the nesting colony, Koraal Tabak Estates and environmental organization EcoVision established a designated breeding area on the northwestern section of the coastal nature reserve. The area has been fenced off and marked with informational signs intended to keep visitors away from the vulnerable habitat.
Despite these measures, the organizations say some visitors continue to disregard the restrictions.
The Least Tern, known locally as the American dwarf tern, is a legally protected species in Curaçao. Under the National Ordinance on Nature Management Principles, intentionally entering a protected nesting area and disturbing protected wildlife can carry severe penalties, including prison sentences of up to four years and fines of up to NAf 1 million.
Koraal Tabak Estates confirmed that incidents recorded on May 18 and May 20 have already been reported to the relevant authorities. The organization also warned that future violations will continue to be documented and referred for legal action.
Environmental groups have repeatedly stressed the importance of protecting nesting sites during breeding season, noting that repeated disturbances can cause adult birds to abandon nests, exposing eggs and chicks to predators, extreme heat, and other threats.
Koraal Tabak is urging residents and visitors to respect all barriers and warning signs to help ensure the survival of the protected bird population and preserve the island's natural heritage.