(Oranjestad)—In a powerful display of community-driven conservation and environmental education, the International School of Aruba (ISA) has become the first educational institution on the island to install two artificial burrows for Aruba’s beloved and endangered burrowing owl. The Aruba Burrowing Owl, Athene cunicularia arubensis, is an endemic subspecies that, known to locals as “Shoco” can only be found in Aruba. There are only an estimated two hundred pairs left on Planet Earth.
This project all began when two pairs of Shocos had chosen ISA as their nesting ground. While their presence delighted the school community, their chosen nest sites -dangerously close to areas of daily activity – posed a risk to the birds and caused concerns for the school management.
Recognizing the importance of coexistence and preservation, they reached out to Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC) for guidance.
Together with ABC, they agreed to install two artificial burrows in safer, more strategic locations on campus. These man-made burrows, specially designed for Shocos, offer a secure and durable alternative for the vulnerable birds.
In the days leading up to the event, 14 yards of gravel were delivered to the school, a vital component in the construction of the burrows. On Saturday, May 10, at 8.00 a.m. in the morning, teams started arriving with shovels, wheelbarrows, and a bobcat, nest materials and more.
One of the nest locations was inaccessible to heavy machinery, required seven yards of gravel to be transported by wheelbarrow—an effort that became a wonderful testament to teamwork. The second burrow, more easily accessed by the bobcat, was completed at a swifter pace.
Following the successful installation came a morning of celebration and ceremony.
Educational integration is already underway at ISA, with biodiversity and Shoco conservation themes being incorporated into the curriculum. This makes the artificial nests not just homes for owls but living classrooms – places where children can witness firsthand the harmony of science, action, and nature.
A new “breakthrough” element in Shoco conservation has been added to the effort. These conservation partners are contributing in a most significant way with among others logistical support, materials, manpower, awareness and beyond.
The involvement of these partners reflects the growing need for alliance between nature conservation groups and Aruba’s tourism sector in building sustainable, community-rooted environmental practices.
One of the collaboration’s goals of these “Founding Fathers” is very clear: to raise awareness, instill a culture of care and conservation in Aruba’s youth, and ensure that future generations will continue to share their island including their Shocos.
Aruba Birdlife Conservation commends the International School of Aruba for its visionary. As a part of its national shoco conservation plan placement of hundreds of artificial burrows is an important objective and with these serious and committed partners, we are well on our way.
Photo credit: Aruba Birdlife Conservation.
