When you think of the Maldives, you often think of pristine beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs. However, in addition to the underwater wonders, the Maldives has a unique array of terrestrial wildlife waiting to be explored. In this guide, we take you on a journey to the diverse nature of the Maldives, from bird watching to nature reserves.
Bird watching in the Maldives
The Maldives may not be the first birdwatching that comes to mind, but this tropical paradise offers a surprising variety of bird species. Here are some of the birds you might see in the Maldives:
White Tern (Gygis alba): These elegant all-white birds are a common sight in the Maldives. They are known for their graceful flights and they often circle over the islands.
Eastern Great Egret (Egretta sacra): These striking birds with contrasting black and white plumage are found on beaches and rocky shores.
Herons and egrets: Various egrets and heron species such as the Indian pond heron and the little egret can be seen in shallow waters and wetlands.
Tropics: Look up in the sky and you might spot red tropicbirds or white-tailed tropicbirds with their long tails.
Frigatebirds: The Maldives is home to the Lesser Frigatebirds, known for their distinctive forked tails and impressive mottled fins. Tips for bird watching:
Bring Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars will enhance your birding experience as you can see details from afar.
Early morning and evening: Birds are often more active when they are easier to spot.
Visit Wetlands: Maldives has a number of wetlands and lagoons that attract waterfowl. Consider visiting places like Villingili Wetland. Nature reserves and protected areas
Although the Maldives is mostly made up of coral atolls and islands, there are a number of sanctuaries and nature reserves that offer a glimpse of the country's terrestrial biodiversity:
Hithadhoo Regional Park: Located on the southernmost atoll, Addu Atoll, this park contains a wide variety of habitats from wetlands to forests. It is a great place for bird watching and seeing various animals.
Kulhudhuffushi Harbour: This protected area of Haa Dhaalu Atoll is known for its vibrant marine life and bird species. It is a popular place for ecotourism and conservation activities.
Villingili: Wetland of international importance: Designated as a Ramsar site, Villingili is an important area for the protection of waterfowl and biodiversity.
Neykyurendhoo Reserve: Located in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Neykyurendhoo Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, including bird species and marine life. Although the Maldives is primarily celebrated for its marine wonders, the country's wildlife and natural beauty are equally fascinating. Whether you are a bird watcher or just looking for a deeper connection with nature, exploring the wildlife and reserves of the Maldives is an enriching experience that will add another layer of wonder to your Maldives adventure.
