Some of the Animals That Are Only Found in Seychelles
The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, is home to a variety of unique and endemic animals found nowhere else in the world due to its isolated location.
Here are some fascinating species that are only found in the Seychelles:
Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher
The Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher is a rare and striking bird endemic to the Seychelles, primarily found on La Digue Island. Males are known for their glossy black feathers and long, flowing tail feathers, while females have a reddish-brown colour with pale underparts and no elongated tails.
This bird lives in the dense Calophyllum forests in the Veuve Nature Reserve on La Digue, although it can also be seen in nearby gardens and trees. Despite efforts to protect this endangered bird, with a reserve created specifically for it, there are ongoing plans to reintroduce the flycatcher to other islands in the Seychelles, such as Denis Island. The flycatcher’s preferred habitat is thick, indigenous woodland, where it remains an iconic and eye-catching symbol of the region’s biodiversity.
Seychelles Black Parrot
The Seychelles Black Parrot, the national bird of Seychelles, is found exclusively on Praslin Island. Known for its distinct call and dark, smoky-grey feathers, this parrot lives in the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve and Praslin National Park. The Seychelles black parrot is entirely dark grey-brown, with a greyish undertail. Its bill becomes lighter during the breeding season.
With a population of around 520–900 birds, this species depends on mature palm forests for breeding, particularly in the Vallée de Mai and Fond Peper areas.
Seychelles Sheath-Tailed Bat
The Seychelles Sheath-tailed Bat is one of the rarest mammals in the world and is critically endangered, with fewer than 100 individuals believed to exist. This bat is only found in Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
During the day, it roosts in clefts on the mountainsides facing the sea, typically sheltered by the large fronds of endemic palms. With a lifespan of up to 20 years and a body length of 55-65 mm, the largest surviving populations of this species are found on Mahé. However, its numbers have drastically declined, making it one of the most endangered animals on the planet.
Seychelles Tree Frog
The Seychelles Tree Frog is a small, green frog native to the islands of Mahé, Silhouette, and Praslin. Endemic to the region, it lives in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, rivers, swamps, freshwater marshes, and even plantations and gardens. This nocturnal species spends its days resting on the upper surfaces of palm fronds or high up in large trees.
They are an important part of the island’s ecosystem, thriving in the remnants of rainforests and contributing to the balance of habitats.
Seychelles Wolf Snake
Endemic to the Seychelles, the Seychelles wolf snake is a non-venomous species found in forested areas on islands such as Mahé and Silhouette. Though relatively uncommon, it poses no threat to humans and plays a vital role in the island’s ecosystem.
Seychelles Coconut Crab
The coconut crab, the largest land-dwelling arthropod, is found in the Seychelles, particularly on Aldabra Atoll. Known for its impressive strength, this creature can crack open coconuts with its powerful claws.
They primarily feed on fruit, carrion, and occasionally on other crab shells for calcium. Despite their name, they only occasionally crack open coconuts by stripping the outer husk with their claws. Though related to hermit crabs, the coconut crab has a more complex relationship with the ocean, spending most of its life on land.
Seychelles Fody
The Seychelles Fody is a small, yellowish songbird native to the Seychelles islands, originally found only on Cousin Island. Over time, it has been successfully reintroduced to other islands, including Cousine, Frégate, Aride, D’Arros, and in 2004, Denis Island. While its natural habitat is woodland, the Fody has adapted to living in coconut plantations and gardens.
It can breed throughout the year. It shares its habitat with the Red Fody.
Seychelles Skink
The Seychelles Skink is a species of skink endemic to the Seychelles. Skinks resemble other lizards but lack distinct necks and have long, easily detachable tails. The Seychelles Skink feeds on a variety of insects, such as flies, crickets, grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars. It reproduces by laying clutches of eggs.
This species is highly adaptable, thriving in various habitats across the islands. Despite having an area of occupancy of less than 5,000 square kilometres, the Seychelles Skink is considered common and faces no significant threats.
Exploring the Seychelles by car allows you to experience the island’s diverse landscapes and fascinating wildlife at your own pace. From lush forests to secluded beaches, renting a car with Bliss Car Hire gives you the freedom to discover endemic species and natural wonders while enjoying the comfort of your journey. Don’t miss the chance to encounter the Seychelles up close, all while navigating the beauty of this tropical paradise. Contact us today to book your vehicle.
