Aruba is home to a unique and beloved bird that you won’t find anywhere else in the world — the Shoco, a subspecies of burrowing owl that has become a proud national symbol. Small in size but big in character, the Shoco is a rare sight and a vital part of the island’s ecosystem.
Found only in Aruba, these owls prefer dry, open areas such as sandy patches and mudflats, where they dig burrows for nesting. Known for their wide, expressive eyes and curious stance, Shocos are monogamous and usually mate for life. Each year, they can have up to two nesting seasons, laying as many as five eggs per cycle.
Unfortunately, the Shoco is currently classified as endangered. Rapid development and urban sprawl are threatening their natural habitat, reducing available nesting sites. Human activities, such as pesticide use and the introduction of non-native predators like dogs, cats, and snakes, have also put the Shoco at risk.
In response, conservation groups such as Fundacion Parke Nacional Aruba (FPNA), Aruba Birdlife Conservation, and the Global Owl Project are working to protect these owls through initiatives like artificial nesting programs and habitat monitoring.
You can help protect the Shoco by respecting protected areas like Arikok National Park and the dunes near the California Lighthouse, sticking to marked trails, and reporting sightings of Shocos or nests to local conservation organizations. Locals are also encouraged to spay and neuter their pets to reduce threats to wildlife.
By learning more about this charismatic little owl, we can all play a role in ensuring that the Shoco continues to thrive in Aruba’s wild landscapes
