Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary Connect to Nature

For Immediate Release May 27, 2026 Graeme Hall, Christ Church, Barbados

Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary Receives Gift of More Than 60 Birds in Honour of Late Barbadian “Birdman” Christopher Nurse Living collection donated in keeping with the wishes of a beloved figure — his legacy carried forward within our aviaries

CHRIST CHURCH, BARBADOS — Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary has received a heartfelt and unexpected gift: a living collection of more than 60 birds, donated in honour of the late Mr. Christopher Nurse, affectionately known throughout Barbados as “Birdman”, who passed away very recently following a lifetime devoted to the care of birds.

In keeping with his wishes, his beloved birds, comprising an assortment of lively parrots, parakeets, and lovebirds, have been entrusted to the Sanctuary to be protected, appreciated, and given a permanent home. The Sanctuary extends its deepest condolences and profound gratitude to his partner, Ms. Helga Brook, and to the family for their trust in us to continue the care of these birds. It is a privilege and a responsibility we do not take lightly.

“Mr. Nurse spent his life nurturing these birds, and it is our honour to ensure they continue to thrive. We are committed to upholding the standard of care he gave them, and to making certain that his legacy lives on, not only in the birds themselves, but in every visitor who encounters them here at the Sanctuary.”— Anthony Da Silva, Protector Barbados Wetlands Trust
Quarantine & Care Protocol

All 60+ birds are currently housed in the Sanctuary’s specially prepared quarantine and isolation facility. This is standard practice for any birds arriving at the Sanctuary, regardless of their origin or condition. No bird joins our aviaries without completing this critical animal heath process.

During the quarantine period, the Sanctuary’s dedicated Wildlife Team will closely monitor, care for, and comprehensively evaluate each bird. Full veterinary clearance is required. This protocol ensures that every bird that ultimately joins our aviary flocks are healthy, stable, and ready to thrive in its new environment.

Joining the Living Collection

Once the full quarantine process is complete, these birds will take their place among the resident population in the Sanctuary’s two expansive and open flight aviaries: Gully and Wildlife Haven. These aviaries provide naturalistic, enriched environments where birds can live and be observed in conditions that honour both their welfare and the educational mission of the Sanctuary.

A Legacy Preserved

Mr. Christopher “Birdman” Nurse was a well-known and long-established figure in the Barbadian bird-keeping community. His knowledge, dedication, and love for his birds were widely respected. That he chose to entrust their future care and safety to Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary is something the entire Sanctuary team considers an honour.

We are grateful to Mrs. Helga Brook and the family for reaching out to us. As these birds settle into their new home, they carry with them, Chris’ story and we are committed to ensuring it continues to be told.

About Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary is Barbados’ only RAMSAR-designated wetland and one of the island’s most important ecological reserves. Home to diverse resident and migratory wildlife, the Sanctuary is dedicated to conservation, education, and sustainable eco-tourism. The Sanctuary’s aviaries, Gully and Wildlife Haven provide protected habitats for a wide variety of bird and animal species and are a centerpieces of the visitor experience.

Media Contact

Communications Office

Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary

Graeme Hall, Christ Church, Barbados

Email: [communications@graemehall.com]

Tel: [+1 246 435-9727]