Once people have begun to realise the importance of looking after a rare national treasure like the Antiguan racer, the next step is to make sure that there are enough people who know how to help protect the snake. This is an example of 'capacity building'.

Many people in the local community are becoming more interested in conservation. Some are keen to become directly involved in helping the racer, but in order to do this they need equipment and training. By pooling their resources, the project partners can benefit from the best of both worlds. The local staff and other Antiguans can provide visiting scientists with vital information and teach them more about Antigua and its wildlife. In return, the experienced scientists can train the local people in the use of specialist equipment, and pass on information about important activities such as rat and mongoose control, environmental education and biological surveys.