About the Sanctuary
Over 70 years of trust between people and Jamaican wild birds
Rocklands began with one woman, a hillside above Montego Bay and a great deal of patience. It continues today in much the same spirit.
Lisa Salmon, the “Bird Lady”
In 1953, Lisa moved to the hills near Anchovy in St James, overlooking Montego Bay, and built a little cottage named Rocklands. She had a deep love of animals, so it was only natural that she should begin feeding the wild birds that visited her beautiful forest garden. For five years, she worked to gain their trust before the hummingbirds finally began coming to her hand.
People started visiting Rocklands to see the birds, and as Rocklands grew in reputation, visitors came not only to see the birds but also to talk with its remarkable owner. Lisa was an extraordinary conversationalist and her knowledge of Jamaican birdlife became widely respected.
What we believe
We aim to preserve Lisa Salmon’s legacy by providing a safe and welcoming home for Jamaica’s wild birds, and to give guests an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature.
With this focus, Rocklands will remain one of Jamaica’s most treasured nature experiences, and to inspire future generations to value and protect the island’s birds.
No cages, ever
The birds at Rocklands are never kept. They are wild, and free to come and go as they choose.
Nature sets the pace
The birds run the show. Numbers and species change with the season and with what is available in the wild.
Quiet over volume
We are not a mass-tourism attraction where crowds compete for a brief view. Small groups, a relaxed garden, unhurried time.
Stewardship
We hold this hillside in trust — for Lisa Salmon’s legacy, for the birds that depend on it, and for the generations after us.
Our hosts
Rocklands is a small, privately owned bird sanctuary. The same family has welcomed guests to this hillside for more than twenty years. We are blessed by God to be stewards of His creation, and our staff proudly share the Rocklands experience with visitors from around the world each day.
Fritz Beckford
Senior host & bird guide
Fritz and his wife, Cynthia, have welcomed guests to Rocklands for more than 20 years.
Fritz grew up in the area and was mentored by Rocklands’ founder, Lisa Salmon. He has extensive knowledge of the local birds, plants and wildlife. Although naturally quiet, Fritz opens up as he guides guests and shares his intimate knowledge of Rocklands and its natural surroundings.
Damion Beckford
host & bird guide
Damion, Fritz and Cynthia’s son, has been hosting visitors for close to three years. He is charming, welcoming and always happy to guide guests and answer their questions.
Cynthia Beckford
Operations and Guest Support
Cynthia keeps Rocklands organised and running smoothly behind the scenes. Her dependable support has been an important part of the visitor experience for more than 20 years.
Conley and Julie Salmon
Owners
Conley Salmon and his wife, Julie, are the owners of Rocklands Bird Sanctuary. Conley is the nephew of Lisa Salmon, the sanctuary’s founder.
Together, Conley and Julie are committed to preserving Lisa’s legacy and ensuring that Rocklands remains a peaceful home for Jamaica’s wild birds and a memorable destination for visitors.
What visitors say
Travellers’ Choice, 2026
Open daily, 10am – 5pm
Book your visit to Rocklands
Admission from US$30 for adults. Walk-ins are welcome and no reservation is needed, though booking online lets you choose your time and pay in advance.