Saint Lucia, an island known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is now offering nature lovers a unique adventure—one that goes beyond the traditional Caribbean experience. The ‘Small Six’ is a groundbreaking wildlife tour that invites visitors to discover and celebrate six rare and endangered species that can only be found on this breathtaking island.

To bring this experience to the world stage, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) has partnered with renowned British bushcraft expert and TV presenter Ray Mears, a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation. Through this collaboration, Saint Lucia is reinforcing its commitment to eco-tourism, highlighting the island’s extraordinary biodiversity while encouraging sustainable travel experiences.

Saint Lucian parrot

The ‘Small Six’: A Unique Twist on the Big Five

Wildlife safaris are often associated with Africa’s ‘Big Five’, a term used to describe the continent’s most iconic animals. But in Saint Lucia, the focus shifts to some of the island’s smallest yet most extraordinary creatures, each playing a vital role in its delicate ecosystem.

Led by local conservation expert Adams Toussaint and his team, the ‘Small Six’ tour offers travelers the chance to explore lush rainforests and remote trails in search of:
• Saint Lucia Parrot – A brilliantly colored bird and national symbol, listed as vulnerable.
• Saint Lucia Black Finch – A rare species, endangered due to habitat loss.
• Saint Lucia Oriole – Striking in color, yet highly endangered.
• Saint Lucia Worm Snake – A tiny, elusive reptile, considered endangered.
• Saint Lucia Whiptail Lizard – Saved from the brink of extinction, still endangered.
• Saint Lucia Pygmy Gecko – One of the world’s smallest reptiles, endangered and found only in Saint Lucia.

This adventure is not just about spotting wildlife—it’s about understanding their significance, learning about conservation efforts, and experiencing the untouched beauty of Saint Lucia’s natural landscapes.

Ray Mears: A Voice for Conservation

Ray Mears, one of the world’s most respected survival experts and naturalists, has spent decades teaching people how to connect with and respect nature. His passion for wildlife makes him the ideal ambassador for the ‘Small Six’ campaign, helping to raise awareness about Saint Lucia’s conservation efforts and why sustainable tourism is key to protecting its wildlife.

The ‘Small Six’ offers a rare opportunity to see these species in their natural habitat, while also understanding the importance of conservation. This is more than just a tour—it’s a chance to be part of something bigger, a movement to protect these creatures for future generations.

Mears will be traveling to Saint Lucia to experience the ‘Small Six’ firsthand. Alongside local conservationists, he will explore the island’s wildlife, meet the experts working to preserve them, and share his journey through exclusive broadcast interviews and digital content.

Why Now? The Urgent Need for Conservation

The Caribbean has one of the highest extinction rates in modern history, making conservation efforts in Saint Lucia more critical than ever. Habitat destruction, climate change, and invasive species have put pressure on many of the region’s native creatures, with several species from the ‘Small Six’ list categorized as endangered or vulnerable.

The Saint Lucia Whiptail Lizard, for example, was nearly wiped out until conservationists successfully relocated populations to protected areas. However, threats remain, making education and awareness crucial in ensuring the species’ survival.

“The ‘Small Six’ is about more than just spotting wildlife,” says Adams Toussaint, the local expert leading the initiative. “It’s about showing visitors that their presence, choices, and contributions can make a real difference. Sustainable tourism means protecting our environment while giving people an unforgettable experience.”

A Campaign That Captures the World’s Attention

With Ray Mears leading the charge, the SLTA is taking this initiative beyond Saint Lucia, bringing the story to international audiences through high-impact media coverage.

The campaign will feature:
• Live broadcasts from Saint Lucia, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and the conservation efforts in action.
• Engaging digital and social media content, including behind-the-scenes footage, traveler testimonials, and interactive wildlife experiences.
• Documentary-style video content, offering an in-depth look at the conservation work happening in Saint Lucia.

By sharing the stories of conservationists, local guides, and wildlife experts, the campaign aims to inspire travelers to make ethical choices, support conservation efforts, and experience eco-tourism in a meaningful way.

The Oriole

The Call to Adventure: Experience the ‘Small Six’ for Yourself

The ‘Small Six’ tour is available year-round, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the wild side of Saint Lucia while contributing to conservation efforts. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this experience provides an intimate and unforgettable journey into the heart of the island’s ecosystem.

For those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, Saint Lucia’s ‘Small Six’ promises more than just sightings—it promises a deeper connection to nature and a call to action to help protect it.

Ray Mears, the SLTA, and Saint Lucia’s conservation community are ready to share this incredible story with the world. Will you be part of the journey?