In the last decade on Turks and Caicos, divers have begun to discover some of the finest coral reefs and walls in the world. From the legendary walls of Grand Turk, West Caicos and Provo's Northwest Point to the historic wrecks south of Salt Cay, a dozen world-class walls have become a Mecca for the serious diver.

From late December through April, the entire Atlantic herd of 2,500 Humpback Whales pass through the shores on their annual migration to the Mouchoir Bank, just 20 - 30 miles southeast. During this period divers can listen to an underwater concert of the whales’ songs. During the summer, divers encounter Manta Rays cruising the face of the walls. Encounters with Dolphin are not uncommon either.

The salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. Search for Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, osprey and Pelicans alongside Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds. As part of the National Parks system, more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds.

On some of the less disturbed and smaller islands, such as Little Water Cay or Great Sand Cay, it is the Turks island Iguana that dominates the land. The Iguana is endangered and delicate but thrives on these deserted islands, away from the influence of man. These islands are also protected by the National Parks system.

The National Parks were designed to protect the scenic environment and habitats, to preserve and conserve them for future generations, and to make them available for public recreation.

In 1992 the government set aside 33 specific protected areas, a list that includes nature reserves, sanctuaries and historical sites totaling more than 325 square miles. 210 square miles of this total amount are sensitive and ecologically essential wetlands ratified under the international Ramsar Bureau. Other protected areas include marine replenishment areas as well as breeding grounds for turtles, seabirds and other creatures. A marine mooring buoy system is just one of the many projects currently underway.