9781422286470

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Suriname

Surinamese people face is called the sibibusi (“bush sweeping” or “forest broom”), a driving, pouring rain. In Suriname, the four seasons are determined by the presence or absence of rainfall. A short dry season runs from February to April, followed by a long rainy season running from April to August. The months between August and December are the long dry season, and the months between December and February are the short rainy season. The coastal area of Suriname receives the most rainfall. This region sees over 80 inches (203 centimeters) of rainfall per year. In the interior region of Suriname, approximately 60 inches (152 cm) of rain falls each year. The hottest month is September and the wettest month is June. Nature Reserves and Parks Unlike the coasts of many other Latin American countries, the coasts of Suriname are not covered with sandy beaches to attract tourists. However, the coasts are covered with birds. Suriname is an important rest stop for more than 20 species of wading birds and provides a safe haven for several kinds of turtles. Five of Suriname’s 12 protected areas are found along its coast. These are designed to protect bird and turtle habitats. Marshes and mangrove swamps can be found all along the coastline. The mudflats, marshes, and mangrove swamps provide a rich feeding ground for wading birds. Many of these birds migrate here from North America. Bird-watchers from all over the world flock to Suriname. They come to observe the coastal wading birds. Egrets, scarlet ibises, and pelicans can be seen feeding in different areas along Suriname’s lush shores.