ORANJESTAD, Aruba — Aruba’s endemic Shoco will be at the center of an international conservation gathering at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar in September 2026.
The Aruba Shoco Conference will bring together local and international owl specialists, conservation organizations, government representatives, communities, and tourism businesses. The program is expected to focus on science, habitat protection, rehabilitation, education, and practical cooperation.
For Aruba, the conference is more than a scientific meeting. Protecting the Shoco also means protecting the natural spaces that support the island’s biodiversity and identity.
Aruba Shoco Conference Dates and Focus
The latest local announcement says the conference will take place at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar from September 7 through September 10, 2026. Earlier World Owl Conference information also mentioned September 6, which may be used for registration, arrivals, or related programming.
Participants are expected to exchange knowledge about conservation challenges affecting owl populations on islands, with Aruba’s Shoco playing a central role in the discussions.
Why the Shoco Needs Protection
The Shoco is Aruba’s distinctive burrowing owl and occurs naturally only on the island. It is also one of Aruba’s most recognizable national symbols.
Its survival is affected by several pressures:
- Loss or disturbance of nesting habitat through construction and development
- Traffic risks when burrows are located close to roads
- Threats from free-roaming dogs and cats
- Human activity around active nesting areas
Conservation groups have responded by protecting natural nests, installing artificial burrows, relocating threatened nests when necessary, and teaching residents and businesses how to recognize Shoco habitat.
Research, Rehabilitation, and Education
Conference discussions are expected to cover population research, habitat management, rehabilitation of injured birds, and methods for monitoring the species over time.
Education will also be important. Aruba has developed community programs such as Shoco Ambassador training, school and hotel initiatives, and artificial nesting projects. International expertise can help strengthen those efforts and turn scientific findings into practical local protection.
Tourism Businesses Can Support Biodiversity
JOIA Aruba by Iberostar has worked with Aruba Birdlife Conservation on Shoco protection. The resort’s Shoco Boulevard combines native vegetation, educational elements, and artificial burrows, while other hotels have also joined conservation partnerships.
That cooperation demonstrates how tourism businesses can help protect the same natural environment that makes Aruba an important destination.
Conference Will Recognize David H. Johnson
The gathering will also recognize international owl expert David H. Johnson of the Global Owl Project. His work with Aruba Birdlife Conservation and local conservation professionals has supported Shoco research, artificial nesting, and relocation methods.
Better Population Data Remains Important
Previous estimates have referred to roughly 200 breeding pairs, while more recent government information has mentioned approximately 200 registered nests. A registered nest does not necessarily represent a current breeding pair, so updated population research is still needed.
A stronger baseline and continued monitoring would help conservation organizations measure changes, identify priority habitats, and respond more effectively to threats.
Protecting Aruba’s Natural Heritage
The Aruba Shoco Conference 2026 offers an opportunity to connect research with action. Stronger habitat protection, updated data, community participation, and cooperation from the tourism sector can all help safeguard the Shoco for future generations.
Source: Aruba News