Invasive species are non-native species which establish and spread to the significant detriment of local species.

Several bird species are currently the subject of conservation concern, regarding their invasive nature in the Cayman Islands.

Invasive birds out-compete local species for natural resources, most often food and nesting sites. Some invasive species, such as the Shiny Cowbird are nest parasites - replacing the eggs of local species with their own.

Deliberate and accidental releases of exotic pets by irresponsible and mis-guided owners account for many introduced species.

Monk Parakeet Myiopsitta monachus
Since their release in George Town in 1987, Monk Parakeets have proved prolific breeders, spreading into Bodden Town and West Bay. Monk Parakeets compete with local birds for food, and construct large (ca. 2m / 6ft high) colonial nests. These are often build in power lines, and can represent a significant safety hazard. Monk Parakeets are regarded as invasive species in many other countries, and are a significant crop pest.

Yellow-crowned Parrot Amazona ochrocephala
Escaped or release on Grand Cayman ca. 1991. Now breeding in significant number in the George Town region. Competes with local birds for food.

Red-masked Conure Aratinga erthrogenys
Released in George Town in 1992. Now established and breeding in the George Town area. Competes with local birds for food.

Shiny Cowbird Molothrus bonariensis
The status of the Shiny Cowbird in the Cayman Islands is currently unclear. There have been a couple of observations in Grand Cayman, in North Side, and it would appear likely that there has been at least one successful breeding attempt on island. The Shiny Cowbird has been expanding its range out of South America since 1900s, arriving in the United States in 1985. A nest parasite of other species, the spread of the Shiny Cowbird is a cause for serious conservation concern, and represents a serious threat to endangered local species. For this reason, the status of the Shiny Cowbird in the Cayman Islands will require careful monitoring and management, if our local birds are to be protected from this invasive species in the future.

REFERENCE:
For more information on the birds of the Cayman Islands, see
Bradley, P. E. 1995. Birds of the Cayman Islands
Bradley, P. E. 2000. The Birds of the Cayman Islands
Raffaele et al. 2003. A Guide to the Birds of the West Indies.