Flora & Fauna

At the North end area a series of hills, remnants of an old volcano. At the center of the island is a plain where the airport is located and at the south end a much younger, perfectly formed volcano - The Quill.

Designated as a National Park in May 1998 and is managed by The St. Eustatius National Parks Foundation (Stenapa), The Quill soars dramatically to a height of 2000 feet.

The Dutch settlers first called it "Kuil" meaning pit or hole but the English settlers renamed it - "Quill."

It is a lush rainforest, an intriguing hiking expedition that has attracted hundreds of visitors. After you have made the ascent to the crater, catch your breath and relax, then make your descent into the floor of the crater to a depth of 273 meters above sea level. Explore the verdant lush tropical rainforest, nestled within its enormous crater.

You will find the interior teems with giant elephant ears growing along the trail on the ground. Also look oput for magnificent tree ferns, begonias, figs, plantains and bananas.

In th Quill you will also find bromliads (related to the pineapple), trumpet wood, mahogany, seedless breadfruit (first brought to the New World by Captain Bligh in 1793), Surinam cherry, ginger bush and edible raspberries.

There are at least 17 different kinds of orchids, some quite rare on the island. You may also come across iguanas, land crabs, butterflies and exotic birds.

Bird life on Statia is rich. The number of species recorded is 54 - 25 resident and breeding species, 21 migrants form North America and 12 species of seabirds.

There's plenty more hiking and exploring close to the Quill.

Panaroma Track has breathtaking views of St. Barts, St. Maarten and Saba. Don't miss the Mazinga Track with great views of St. Kitts and Nevis.

During your hike you might encounter the harmless, unusual Racer snake. Along the trail will hear the "coquee" sound of the tree frog - again very rare.

On the northern side of the island there are Venus, Gilboa and Boven trails. On these trails you will find many orchids, large iguanas, beautiful rock formations and superb views of the island, the Caribbean and the Atlantic Ocean.

We recommend you start out at first light. It's still cool and many more birds are visible early in the morning.

Serous hikers are advised to wear long pants and sturdy walking shoes. Take water if you going to be hiking for more than an hour.

You won't find picnic tables, water fountains or toilets. What you will find are new discoveries everyday on these exciting and unspoiled trails. This is exploring at its best.

We say to our visitors, take only pictures, leave only footprints and do have a wonderful time ...

Links & Sources:

• Frommers
• St.Eustatius Tourist Office
• St Eustatius Map