Seychelles, a breathtaking Indian Ocean archipelago, is more than a tropical haven—it's an open wildlife reserve of diversity. Its wildlife is as magical as its shores, including giant Aldabra tortoises from prehistoric times, strange rare birds, colorful marine life, and strange land creatures that developed in complete isolation.
Since Seychelles remained untouched for centuries, the bulk of its species are endemic, i.e., present only here. Nature lovers have in Seychelles a treasure that waits to be found.
Geography and Ecosystem of Seychelles
Islands and Their Unique Habitats
Seychelles is made up of 115 islands that all produce their own environment. The granitic islands such as Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue have high density forests, mountains, and valleys, while the outer coral atolls such as Aldabra form virgin sea environments.
Granitic islands ? Support special vegetation and threatened birds.
Coral atolls ? Provide refuge to marine animals such as turtles, sharks, and reef fish.
Mangroves and coastal wetlands ? Vital breeding ground for crabs, fish, and seabirds.
Climate and Its Impact on Wildlife
The tropical climate, between 24°C and 32°C, supports biodiversity all year. Behavior of the animals is influenced by the two monsoon seasons:
Northwest Monsoon (warm and wet): Sea turtles lay eggs, and migratory birds fly in.
Southeast Monsoon (cool and dry): Improved hiking and diving conditions.
Giant Aldabra Tortoises: The Seychelles Icons
History and Conservation Activities
The Aldabra giant tortoise is the second-largest alive on earth, rivaling the Galápagos giants. Nearly wiped out once by mariners, they've been saved through conservation, particularly on UNESCO World Heritage-listed Aldabra Atoll.
Now, more than 150,000 tortoises roam Aldabra free, the biggest collection of free-living giant tortoises on the planet.
Where to Spot Giant Tortoises in Seychelles
Aldabra Atoll ? Wild environment with hundreds of tortoises.
Curieuse Island ? Tortoises roaming freely amidst mangroves.
Prison Island (Ile Moyenne) ? Half-wild sanctuary off the island of Mahé
Rare and Endemic Birds of Seychelles
Birdwatchers throng Seychelles for its 12 endemic bird species.
Seychelles Magpie-Robin
One of the least common birds in the globe, with only fewer than 20 individuals previously, today. Conservation has brought back the population.
Famous for their shiny black feathers and white accents, it is predominantly located on Frégate Island.
Black Parrot of Praslin
The Seychelles Black Parrot, the national bird, is to be seen in the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. These elusive, solitary birds rely seriously on indigenous palm woodlands.
Seychelles Warbler and Other Species
The Seychelles Warbler is a conservation success in itself, formerly limited to Cousin Island but now common on several islands. Other special birds are:
White-tailed Tropicbird
Fairy Tern
Blue Pigeon
Marine Life Around Seychelles
Coral Reefs and Reef Fish
Seychelles' seabed is beautiful with coral reefs supporting more than 1,000 species of fish.Parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and reef sharks welcome divers.
Sea Turtles: Green and Hawksbill
The Seychelles have a vital green turtle nesting site as well as Hawksbill turtles.
Hawksbills nest from September to March.
Greens nest throughout the year but are busiest from June to September.
Dolphins and Whales
Seychelles' waters harbor playful spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphin pods, and even migrating humpback whales from July–October.
Insects, Reptiles, and Amphibians
Uncommon Gecko Species
The islands have uncommon reptiles such as the day gecko with green color and red spots. They can live in forests and gardens.
Endemic Frogs and Snails
The Sooglossid frogs, the smallest in the world, are found in Seychelles. Pachnodus and other outstanding land snails contribute to the island's distinctiveness.
National Parks and Protected Areas
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
A UNESCO site renowned for the fabled Coco de Mer palm, Vallée de Mai also boasts rare birds and reptiles that inhabit the site.
Aldabra Atoll – UNESCO World Heritage Site
A pristine ecosystem where giant tortoises, seabirds, and marine life coexist.
Morne Seychellois National Park
It occupies Mahé and occupies 20% of the island, replete with hiking trails, exotic flora, and avifauna.
Human Impact and Conservation Issues
Invasive Species
Introduced species like rats and cats, such as these mentioned above, are dangers to native birdlife. Conservationists make every effort to control them.
Climate Change
Increased sea levels and coral bleaching danger coastal and marine life. Seychelles is currently developing climate adaptation plans.
Sustainable Tourism Activities
Wildlife conservation and escorted tours marine parks, and eco-lodges balance conservation of wildlife and tourism.Responsible tourism is promoted for tourists.
Enjoy Seychelles Wildlife Responsibly
Eco-Tours and Guided Tours
Participation in certified eco-tours allows you to view animals in the wild while contributing to their conservation.
Best Time to Visit for Wildlife Observing
Birding: October and April (migration peaks).
Turtle nesting: September to March.
Whale watching: July to October.
Diving: March to May and September to November for optimal weather.
FAQs
Q1. Which animals are Seychelles exclusive to?
Seychelles is home to endemic creatures like giant Aldabra tortoise, Seychelles magpie-robin, black parrot, and Coco de Mer palm forests.
Q2. Where do I spot giant tortoises in Seychelles?
You can spot them at Aldabra Atoll, Curieuse Island, and Moyenne Island.There are a few in conservation parks on Mahé and Praslin, as well.
Q3. Is Seychelles populated by risky animals?
No, Seychelles does not contain venomous snakes and deadly predators. Seychelles fauna is generally secure for tourists.
Q4. When is the ideal time to visit Seychelles to observe wildlife?
To see turtles, travel between September–March. To watch whales, travel in July–October. For bird watching, travel between April or October.
Q5. Is there a volunteer option for tourists to join wildlife conservation activities?
Yes, Seychelles also provides eco-volunteer opportunities through which the visitors can assist in the monitoring of turtles, bird counts, and habitat repair.
Q6. What is Seychelles doing to protect its wildlife?
National parks, marine protected reserves, anti-poaching restrictive laws, and sustainable tourism implemented by local NGOs and government.
Conclusion
Seychelles' wildlife is an amazing combination of ancient giants, threatened birds, productive marine ecosystems, and fragile land species. From strolling alongside giant tortoises to witnessing the night nesting of sea turtles, Seychelles promises unforgettable encounters with wildlife.
As tourists, our greatest gift is to visit responsibly—encourage green tours, respect their habitats, and donate to their conservation. By doing so, we make sure that Seychelles' wonderful wildlife gets to amaze generations to come.
