The very phrase ‘Indian Ocean islands’ conjures up visions of tropical beaches and exotic cocktails. While this may be true, many of the islands and island groups are also outstanding birding destinations. The level of endemism is high and the attraction to birders is heightened by the fact that many species are rare. One group of those Indian Ocean islands is the Seychelles.
Seychelles is a nation comprising numerous small islands scattered across the Indian Ocean south of the equator, northeast of Madagascar. Only a handful of these islands are permanently inhabited while accommodation can be found on only a few more. The granitic islands are generally hot and humid.
Today, the Seychelles is known for success stories in protecting its flora and fauna. Conservation started in the 1960's by a small group of local enthusiasts. Although many of the conservation laws date back to British colonial days, the Seychelles government has strictly protected the natural heritage of the islands for many years. Flagship species, the Seychelles Magpie Robin and the Seychelles Warbler, have been spectacularly rescued from the brink of extinction by BirdLife International, Nature Seychelles, Royal Society for Nature Conservation, Islands Conservation Society and private islands with the support of the government. These birds, once restricted to one island each, have been translocated to many others.
Two hundred and forty-two bird species have been recorded in Seychelles of which 65 breed and 12 are endemic, these include the Seychelles Flycatcher, Scops Owl, White Eye, Swiftlet, Kestrel, Blue Pigeon and Sunbird.
Seychelles is famous for its unique land birds and sea bird colonies. While the resident birds are ever present and predictable, the migratory birds of Seychelles are always changing and always full of surprises. You never know what you are going to find.
Useful websites include:
www.birdlife.org
www.natureseychelles.org
www.islandconservationsociety.com
