West Dog National Park

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Nestled amongst a cluster of islands known as The Dogs west of Virgin Gorda; West Dog is surrounded by Great Dog, George Dog, Seal Dogs and Cockroach Island.

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This rugged volcanic island rises abruptly out of the sea, with steep cliffs offering an ideal habitat for nesting seabirds such as bridled terns (Sterna anaethetus), sooty terns (Sterna fuscata), red-billed tropicbirds (Phaethon aethereus) and endangered roseate terns (Sterna dougallii). These seabirds often form colonies on isolated offshore cays, where the threat of predators is reduced and they can nest safely on the ground. There is a threat of nest abandonment when seabirds are disturbed, so birdwatchers are advised to view these birds from the sea.

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The waters around The Dogs possess a variety of dive and snorkel sites, with an abundance of fish and colourful coral reefs. Divers can explore the submerged pinnacles of Tow Rock, Van Ryan’s Rock, Joe’s Cave, Wall-to-wall and the Flintstones.