Honduras

Cayos Cochinos is a set of islands part of the Bay Islands in the Caribbean, north of Honduras. The Honduras Coral Reef Fund was created in 1994 by a group of Honduran entrepreneurs, the organization made Cayos Cochinos into a marine protected area (MPA). Originally the site suffered from deforestation and environmental destructing factors, but through more than two decades of conservation efforts, the deteriorated areas of Cayos Cochinos have been reduced and even restored. Unique characteristics of the protected area are its distinctive pink boa constrictor species and coral reef topography. Many people visit the area to dive and snorkel as well as do research on the biodiversity of the islands. The fund works with government authorities to protect the lands and waters in the area. In 2009 the site of the protected zone was expanded from 304 sq miles to 708 sq miles. Industrial fishing in the waters of Cayos Cochinos is prohibited but artisanal fishing is allowed for related communities. The purpose of the fund is to protect and preserve Cayos Cochinos’ unique ecosystem and cultural heritage.