Beware of Eco-Pirates

I have finally decided that it is worth the effort to put this small section on my website in order for everyone to know who is operating in an unethical manner and warn in advance other small companies, guides, hotels, etc. in the region who may fall victim to Eco-Pirates.

However, it is only fair to give a brief explanation as to why a company, individual, etc. is listed here and careful thought is given before a listing is made.  A listing can be taken off if deemed appropriate and others should feel free to submit candidates to be listed as an Eco-Pirate here.

V.E.N.T.- Victor Emanuel Nature Tours
This was the real first birding company who offered birding tours to Honduras and who readily employed me for various tours.  As the sales of tours waned they changed strategies and rearranged the tour.  Fine; every company has the right to make adjustments to try and sell their product.  In the meantime I was building a nice eco-lodge in Copan that even featured stained glass birds on the cabins.  It is Copan’s only real eco-lodge.  I offered VENT a Copan itinerary in which they showed interest; at least initially.  Finally, after not answering a number of emails regarding the new lodge and itinerary they decided to book future groups at another hotel in Copan without giving any good reason.  My lodge was even featured on their website for some time!  Add to this the fact they did not lift a finger to even help promote the Mesoamerican Bird Festival held in Honduras 2009 and other episodes in the region (related first hand) give them the honor to be listed here.  Here follows a passage from their website and catalogue:

“VENT has played a pioneer role in helping develop ecotourism. We have been a strong advocate of supporting local conservation organizations, using local drivers and guides, and using in-country tourism operators.”

You make the decision if it is worth your hard earned money to support companies who cut out the local guides; especially those who do real bird conservation work.