• Tourists and wildlife share a piece of paradise in Jamaica.Jamaican Dusk image by rosierags from Fotolia.com
  
  Jamaica, a destination for sun and rum, also thrives as an ecosystem filled with birds, butterflies, reptiles and mammals. Visitors often see varieties endemic to the island. While most people find no problems interacting with local wildlife, there are a few creatures to keep an eye -- or ear - out for as tourists. Also remember, U.S. Customs and Jamaican authorities post many restrictions against removing wildlife, so it's best to leave all your finds behind.
  
  

Jamaican Giant Swallowtail Butterfly

• With an average wingspan of six inches, dark body and yellow and blue markings, the Jamaican Giant Swallowtail Butterfly is hard to miss. Sadly, fewer Jamaician visitors now encounter the endangered creature. These butterflies, the largest butterfly species in the Americas, tend to seek remote, wet, lower-mountain rainforests of the Blue and John Crow Mountains. Conservationists believe only two colonies remain and seek protective environments for the butterflies' reproduction, protecting them from loss of habitat and collectors.
  
  

Jamaican Boa/Yellow Boa

• No poisonous snakes reside on the island, but a few--including this endangered boa, which sometimes measures eight feet in length--might give a traveler pause. This nocturnal, tan or olive-skinned snake marked with black scales and a yellow belly stays tucked away in trees or under foliage and rocks during the day. However, hikers may encounter a Jamaican Boa, also called yellow snake or Nanka, sunning itself early in the day. The Jamaican boa is much more interested in controlling the local rat population than people, so conservation experts ask locals and tourist alike to leave the non-threatening snake in peace.
  
  

Scorpionfish

• While relieved not to worry about poisonous snakes, visitors must stay alert regarding the venom of the Scorpion Fish. Feathery spines appear to warn of danger, but these fish often blend in among rocks and coral making it difficult for divers and water enthusiasts. Scorpionfish release their painful venom into threats by penetrating with their dorsal spines. Although the venom is non-fatal to most humans, all victims should seek immediate medical attention from Scorpionfish interaction.
  
  

Sand Fleas or "No-See-Ums"

• Often travelers' greatest wildlife interaction comes at the bite of one of the smallest creatures. Sand fleas, commonly called "No-See-Ums" on the island, appear during early morning and evening hours on beaches, often accompanied by a high-pitched whine of the swarm. If a visitor fails to recognize the sound, feet and legs often feel the bites. While more annoying than dangerous, Carrion's disease, Pappataci fever and the threatening Leishmaniasis parasite have been linked to bites. Insect repellents usually keep these annoying creatures away and clear the way for a pain-free stroll along the sand.