The landscape and rolling hills on the island would not be such a beautiful sight if it wasn’t for the plants that take up much of the hillside.

Not only do these plants create a colourful backdrop on may of photos, they also have their own medicinal values as well, these can be explored and explained further once you are on the island.

Not only will you notice the plants whilst on the island, many animals can be seen when taking part in everyday holiday activities, even whilst shopping! Many of the animals are brought to the island by hurricanes and colonists, however these animals have now adapted to the island and thrive upon the warm weather throughout the year.

For the nature lovers who visit the island there is list of some of the plants and animals that you are likely to see whilst on your trip:

 

Bougainvillea

This bush can be seen all around the island but can be in many colours, so quite a lot of people do not think it’s the same bush! This colourful bush has very vibrant colours and is a favourite for many pictures.

The small leaf ‘cases’ are home to a single small white flower ( probably the best way to identify this bush ).

These bushes thrive most in full sunlight, however can withstand other weather conditions and mass pruning. Be sure to be careful if you feel the bush, the stem is home to some large, very sharp thorns that can be quite painful if you catch one!

 

Crown Of Thorns

Basically the name says it all. The top of the flower crowns out in mostly red petals that are very attractive. As you could of guessed the stem of this plant is full of thorns that again can be painful!

This plant originated in Madascar but has come a favourite for many on the island for putting in plant pots and used as decorations due to their vibrant colours.

 

Ginger Thomas

This is the St.Croix’s territory flower and due to this can be seen all over the island filling hillsides and gardens alike.

The flower is extremely colourful and brightens everywhere up! Not only is it stunning to look at, it is also very popular for its medicinal value. The petals on the flower are known to treat fevers and even given to a woman after childbirth to ease any pain.

Other locals use the flower to treat symptoms of common colds, headaches and other aches and pains. The stem can even be used and is popular to ease symptoms of syphilis, so this flower the a true treasure to the island!

Not only does it look beautiful, treat many symptoms, it also smells great too, take a smell when you pass one and you will know what we mean!

 

Plumbago

This plant is also well known as Leadwort simply because of the strong lead colour of its roots. This plant is commonly found decorating homes around the island or growing in the sun at road sides. The flower is very simple, but very attractive too.

The Flowers are light blue or lavender colours supported by a long slim stem. This stem is covered in thousands of tiny hairs, the locals use this to their advantage by sticking them to their clothes or even in their hair to add an extra summery look to their outfit.

Plumbago is originally from Africa and therefore is great at surviving in the heat of the sun on the island.

And now time for some of the animals you are likely to see:

 

Iguana

These fairy big species can be found absolutely anywhere on the island! In the hillsides, at the sides of the roads and even commonly seen in local shops. These animals are brightly coloured so are highly like to be spotted whilst doing shopping on the island. Do not worry, these animals are very tame and totally harmless to humans!

 

Bats

At the end of the day coming up to dusk, you are likely to catch a glimpse of the bats that live on the island. They are extremely quick so not many people have time to think what they are!

The bats on St Croix are very useful, they play a large part in the keeping the numbers of mosquitoes to a minimum, something the tourists are always happy to hear! The bats can also be seen skimming the water on the hotel pools! All the bats on the island are vegetarian and always keep away from humans.

 

Geckos

One animal you are almost certain to see whilst on holiday on the island is the Gecko. These are absolutely everywhere. Often then are in homes and streets and the locals are known to keep these in their homes to get rid of the bugs! They are extremely attractive animals and are fun to watch, and are totally harmless aswell.

 

Mongoose

These little animals were originally brought to the island to try get rid of the rat problems that once existed. However this plan did not quite work to plan as the rats were always around at night and the mongoose rests at night! However did get rid of a lot of the snakes on the island, they were used in places such as India to hunt down a kill king Cobras!

 

Hermit Crabs

These crabs are always moving around, this is due to the fact that when they grow, they go in search of a new home to accommodate their size! You are likely to find these crabs on the outskirts of some of the quieter beaches on the island, also they are found in the vegetation otherwise known as the bush.

In most cases you are likely to hear these crabs rolling down small hills before you actually see them. Be sure to leave these crabs where you found them, and do not be tempted to take them home with you! They are on the island as it is a perfect environment for them!