The Forestry Department has strongly condemned a disturbing act of wildlife cruelty after a video circulating on social media showed at least five Saint Lucia boas, also known as Tete Chien, being brutally killed by members of the public.
According to the Department, the footage depicts the non-venomous snakes being bludgeoned with a stick, with a large rock later hurled at the animals to ensure their deaths. Officials have described the incident as a horrific and unacceptable act that constitutes a serious offence under the Saint Lucia Wildlife Protection Act, Chapter 6.03 of 1980, revised in 2001.
The Saint Lucia boa (Boa orophias) is listed as Protected Wildlife under Schedule One of the Wildlife Act. As such, the Forestry Department has stated that it categorically condemns the irresponsible and indiscriminate killing of the island’s endemic species and will not condone any illegal actions against protected wildlife.
The Department has confirmed that it is working closely with the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force and that, with their assistance, arrests will be made and charges laid against those responsible. Authorities are seeking the maximum penalty under the law, which provides for a fine of EC$5,000 per animal killed, imprisonment, or both.
Under Part IV, Section 14(a) of the Wildlife Act, it is an offence for any person, without a valid licence or permit, to hunt or take protected wildlife, including their eggs or young. Additionally, Section 16(d) makes it illegal to use any animal, decoy, or device for the purpose of killing or capturing protected species.
The Forestry Department has also raised concern over reports that boas are being hunted, stewed, and sold as a delicacy in some communities. Officials have stressed that the hunting, possession, sale, or purchase of boa meat is illegal and punishable under the Act. Sections 17(a) and 17(b) of the legislation clearly prohibit the possession, sale, or purchase of any protected wildlife or any part thereof without proper authorization.
Authorities emphasized that the Saint Lucia boa poses no threat to humans. The species plays an important ecological role by preying primarily on rats, which are known carriers of diseases such as leptospirosis, a significant public health concern.
The Forestry Department is urging members of the public not to harm snakes or other protected wildlife and to instead contact the Department for assistance. Reports can be made by calling 468-5634/35 or 518-7154.
“No one should be indiscriminately killing boas or any other protected wildlife,” the Department stated, adding that Saint Lucia’s indigenous biodiversity is vital to maintaining environmental balance and supporting the ecosystem services necessary for human livelihoods.
As the government agency mandated to protect, conserve, and manage the nation’s flora and fauna, the Forestry Department has reiterated its commitment to preserving a healthy natural environment for a healthy and productive nation. The Department is calling on all citizens to play their part in conserving nature and using natural resources responsibly.
For further information, members of the public may contact Assistant Chief Forest Officer, Mr. Pius Haynes, at 518-7154.
