Seychelles Flora and Fauna

The tropical climate ensures a great diversity of species

The flora and wildlife of Seychelles could fill books. Because of the tropical environment, there is such a diverse range of animals in such a little region. The monsoon, with its northwest and southeast phases, determines the climate. There are windless transition times to the distinct phases in April and October-November. Temperatures range from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. The humidity level is around 80%, and rainfall on Mahé, for example, ranges from 3 to 10 days each month.

Black Parrot Seychelles - sitting on a tree

Image: © Botev / Black Parrot

Seychelles has 75 plant species, 12 amphibians, and 11 bird species. Invertebrates account for about 1,000 species in Seychelles. Many species can only be found in Seychelles. On La Digue, for example, the park “La Veuve Special Reserve” was created to conserve the Paradise Flycatcher, which is one of the world’s rarest bird species.

The Coco de Mer is only found in the Vallee de Mai on Praslin. The palmiste palm, redwood, pigtail, and takamaka tree are among the few palm and tree species found only in Seychelles. But there’s also the ironwood tree, often known as the agati or flame tree, which blooms in brilliant red color from November to December. Of course, not all of these are endemic to Seychelles.

Coco de Mer Seychelles

Image: © Matlin / Coco de Mer

One of the most diversified wildlife populations in the Western Ocean may be found here. Ralle, the last surviving flightless bird in the Indian Ocean, is in the same boat. The Wasa parrot is found only in Praslin’s “Vallée de Mai.” The Aldabra giant tortoises are one of three kinds of giant tortoises that live in Seychelles. The indigenous Seychelles frog and the carnivorous pitcher plant can be found on Mahé and Silhouette. Because of this, they only grow at a height of 500 meters and are only found on the two islands.

Seychelles have had an Environmental Management Plan (EMPS) since the second millennium. This strategy balances the needs of housing, infrastructure, and the environment. That the latter does not perish. This means that tourism and the projects that support it cannot devastate the environment. In this way, future generations will be able to enjoy and experience Seychelles’ flora and fauna.