Seychelles Wildlife & Marine Life

A Living Laboratory

Seychelles is a remarkable biodiversity hotspot, home to more endemic species per square kilometer than almost anywhere else on Earth. Isolated in the Indian Ocean for millions of years, these granite islands have evolved unique ecosystems that harbor extraordinary wildlife both on land and beneath the waves.

From the legendary Aldabra giant tortoises that have roamed these islands for centuries to the pristine coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life, Seychelles offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife encounters. The islands' commitment to conservation has created a network of protected areas, marine parks, and nature reserves that safeguard these precious ecosystems for future generations.

Conservation Success

50% of land area protected as nature reserves

Endemic Species

Unique species found nowhere else on Earth

UNESCO Sites

Two World Heritage Sites protecting biodiversity

Endemic Land Species

Aldabra Giant Tortoises

Living legends of the Indian Ocean

The Aldabra giant tortoise is one of the world's largest tortoise species and a true symbol of Seychelles. These magnificent creatures can live over 100 years and weigh up to 250 kilograms. With a population of over 100,000 on Aldabra Atoll, they represent one of conservation's greatest success stories.

Amazing Facts

Can live over 150 years
Weigh up to 250kg (550 pounds)
Shell length up to 1.2 meters
Herbivorous - eat grasses, fruits, and leaves
Can survive without water for months

Where to See Them

Curieuse Island
La Digue (L'Union Estate)
Cousin Island
Aldabra Atoll

Endemic Birds

Unique avian species of the islands

Seychelles Black Parrot

National bird of Seychelles
Found only in Vall'e de Mai, Praslin
Population: approximately 800 birds
Feeds on endemic palm fruits

Seychelles Magpie Robin

Brought back from near extinction
Population recovered from 12 to over 200
Found on Cousin, Cousine, and other islands
Beautiful melodic song

Seychelles Warbler

Another conservation success story
Population increased from 26 to over 3,000
Small brown bird with distinctive call
Lives in native woodland areas

Seychelles Sunbird

Tiny, colorful endemic species
Males have iridescent plumage
Feeds on nectar and small insects
Found in gardens and forests

Unique Insects

Seychelles Giant Millipede: Up to 25cm long
Wright's Gardenia Bee: Endemic pollinator
Various endemic beetles: Unique to specific islands
Endemic stick insects: Masters of camouflage

Endemic Plants

Coco de Mer: Legendary double coconut
Wright's Gardenia: Rare endemic flower
Jellyfish Tree: Critically endangered
Seychelles Pitcher Plant: Carnivorous plant

Marine Life & Coral Reefs

Seychelles' marine ecosystems are among the most pristine in the Indian Ocean, supporting an incredible diversity of marine life. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are home to vibrant coral reefs, large pelagic species, and unique marine creatures.

Sea Turtles

Ancient mariners of the Indian Ocean

Hawksbill Turtles

Critically endangered species
Nest on Seychelles beaches
Beautiful shell patterns
Feed on sponges and coral

Green Turtles

Largest hard-shelled turtle
Herbivorous as adults
Important nesting sites
Can weigh up to 200kg

Nesting Season

October to February is the main nesting season. Night walks on beaches like Anse Intendance offer chances to witness nesting.

Conservation

Seychelles is a critical nesting site for hawksbill turtles, with ongoing conservation programs protecting nests and hatchlings.

Coral Reefs & Fish

Underwater rainforests of the Indian Ocean

Coral Species

Hard corals: Brain, staghorn, table corals
Soft corals: Sea fans, whips, and trees
Over 300 coral species recorded
Healthy reef recovery after bleaching

Tropical Fish

Angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish
Moorish idols and surgeonfish
Groupers, snappers, and wrasses
Over 900 fish species recorded

Large Marine Life

Whale sharks (seasonal visitors)
Manta rays at cleaning stations
Various shark species
Dolphins and whales

Best Snorkeling Sites

Sainte Anne Marine Park
Cousin Island
Curieuse Marine Park
Port Launay Marine Park

Unique Species

Coconut Crab: World's largest land arthropod
Flying Fish: Glide above waves
Octopus: Masters of camouflage
Sea Cucumbers: Important reef cleaners

Protected Species

All sea turtles: Strictly protected
Whale sharks: No touching allowed
Dugongs: Rare marine mammals
Giant clams: Protected mollusks

Protected Areas & Conservation

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Vall'e de Mai Nature Reserve

Home to the legendary Coco de Mer
Pristine palm forest ecosystem
Endemic birds and rare plants
Guided tours available

Aldabra Atoll

World's largest coral atoll
100,000+ giant tortoises
Pristine marine ecosystem
Research station only

Marine National Parks

Sainte Anne: First marine park
Curieuse: Mangroves and tortoises
Port Launay: Coral restoration
Baie Ternay: Pristine reefs

Park Rules

No fishing, no collecting, no touching marine life. Entrance fees support conservation.

Conservation Organizations

Seychelles Islands Foundation: Manages UNESCO sites
Nature Seychelles: Marine and terrestrial conservation
Marine Conservation Society Seychelles: Marine research

Island Conservation Society: Island restoration
Seychelles National Parks Authority: Protected area management
WCS Seychelles: Wildlife conservation programs

Wildlife Viewing Guide

Best Times

Early morning (6-9 AM): Birds most active
Late afternoon (4-6 PM): Animals feeding
Night (8-10 PM): Turtle nesting season
Calm weather: Best for snorkeling

Photography Tips

Bring telephoto lens for birds
Underwater camera for marine life
Respect minimum distances
No flash photography with wildlife

Responsible Wildlife Viewing

Maintain safe distances from animals
Don't feed wildlife
Stay on designated trails
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Don't touch or disturb marine life

Important

Many species are protected by law. Disturbing wildlife can result in heavy fines.

Wildlife & Marine Life