First shoco chick of season discovered at Shoco Sanctuary

ORANJESTAD — Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC) has announced the discovery of the first shoco chick of the new breeding season at Shoco Sanctuary. Elizabeth Filipelli of Duval Audubon Society spotted the chick at the entrance to an artificial underground nest.

The discovery shows that shocos use the artificial nests installed by ABC to support their protection. This protected owl, found only on Aruba, faces threats from habitat loss, roaming dogs and cats, and boa constrictors.

ABC urges residents and tourists to keep their distance from nests and avoid disturbing the birds. The chicks need quiet and a safe environment to survive.