JOIA Aruba Launches Shoco Boulevard to Champion Owl Conservation in Aruba

In a landmark step for environmental preservation in Aruba, JOIA Aruba by Iberostar has officially launched Shoco Boulevard—a protected wildlife corridor designed to conserve the island’s national bird, the Shoco (Athene cunicularia arubensis). Created in collaboration with Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC), the project reinforces Aruba’s National Shoco Conservation Plan and deepens JOIA’s commitment to ecosystem protection through its global Wave of Change movement.

A Safe Haven for the Shoco Owl in Aruba

Native Habitat, Artificial Burrows, and Natural Harmony

Shoco Boulevard is more than a symbolic gesture—it’s a living, breathing sanctuary. The area features artificial burrows nestled within native Aruban flora such as Wayaka, Kibrahacha, Kawara, Aloe, and Bushi, creating a low-lying environment perfect for the Shoco’s nesting and movement.

This carefully designed corridor offers visitors and locals a chance to respectfully observe Aruba’s burrowing owls while reinforcing public awareness and appreciation for island biodiversity.

Did you know? The Shoco only exists in Aruba and is considered a subspecies of the burrowing owl—making its conservation a top national priority.

Conservation Through Collaboration: Iberostar & ABC Unite

This new wildlife corridor marks the official signing of the Shoco Community Conservation Agreement between Iberostar and Aruba Birdlife Conservation—a move that builds upon the 2019 Shoco Sanctuary at Tierra del Sol, which now shelters 20% of Aruba’s known Shoco population across 32 artificial burrows.

Explore more conservation efforts on our Wildlife & Sustainability page.

Shoco Boulevard is the next strategic phase of ABC’s broader plan to establish interconnected wildlife corridors throughout the island, ensuring long-term survival and movement for Aruba’s unique flora and fauna.

Education & Eco-Tourism Meet at “Aula di Lama”

New Sustainability Classroom for Schools and NGOs

In tandem with the Shoco Boulevard launch, JOIA Aruba introduced the “Aula di Lama”—a new on-site educational classroom dedicated to biodiversity awareness and sustainability learning. Local schools and NGOs will now have access to this resource, encouraging younger generations to take part in Aruba’s green future.

This project reflects Iberostar’s Wave of Change, a company-wide initiative to inspire local engagement, scientific partnerships, and long-term environmental action in all their destinations.

A Call for Island-Wide Conservation Efforts

JOIA Aruba is calling on other tourism stakeholders, developers, and resorts across the island to replicate this model by creating their own biodiversity corridors. By forming a network of protected pathways, Aruba can amplify its global position as a leader in eco-tourism and responsible hospitality.

Learn how Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is also raising the bar in sustainable luxury with Terra by Chef Jeremy Ford.

With projects like Shoco Boulevard, Aruba takes another bold step toward preserving its endemic wildlife, creating immersive learning experiences, and inspiring a new era of conscious travel.

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