It is one of thirteen government protected wildlife sanctuaries, one of two breeding grounds for pelicans in the country.

Its geology comprises several jagged cliffs rising to a high elevation given the island's small size.

The island was proclaimed a wildlife sanctuary in 1935 by the Trinidad and Tobago Government, granting it full legal protection by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Division.

Other important species on the island include the chestnut-collared swift and rufous-necked wood-rail, both of which are rare in the country.

Poaching is not a major threat to the island because of its inaccessibility due to its jagged cliffs, rough seas and distance from populated areas.