Mauritius: Home of Natural Wonders
The beautiful island of Mauritius with its tropical beaches, forested, mountainous interior and extensive national parks is a paradise for nature-lovers and for family adventure.
This Indian Ocean gem boasts an impressive biodiversity, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike.
Mauritius’ Diverse Ecosystem
Mauritius is home to an astounding array of flora and fauna, including 670 native species of flowering plants, 100 species of birds, and numerous endemic reptiles.
This rich biodiversity is spread across various habitats, including coastal areas, wetlands, and lush forests, each offering unique ecosystems to explore.
Native Flowering Plants
Among the 670 native flowering plant species, some notable examples stand out.
The beautiful island of Mauritius
The Trochetia boutoniana, also known as Boucle d’Oreille, is the national flower of Mauritius. This beautiful bell-shaped flower is endemic to the island and symbolises its unique natural heritage.
Another remarkable species is the Hibiscus genevii, a rare type of hibiscus found only in Mauritius.
The Pandanus vandermeerschii, a type of screwpine native to Mauritius, is known for its distinctive aerial roots and plays a crucial role in the island’s ecosystem.
Endemic Reptiles
Mauritius’ habitat hosts several unique reptile species that have evolved in isolation. The Phelsuma ornata, or Blue-tailed Day Gecko, is a colourful gecko species endemic to Mauritius, often seen basking in the sun on tree trunks.
The critically endangered Gongylomorphus bojerii, or Bojer’s Skink, is found only in Mauritius and faces threats from habitat loss and introduced predators.
The Leiolopisma telfairii, or Telfair’s Skink, once thought extinct, has been successfully reintroduced to some of Mauritius’ smaller islands, marking a significant conservation success.
Conservation Efforts in Mauritius
Conservation is taken very seriously in the country that boasts the having once been home to the dodo. The extinction of this flightless bird serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving Mauritius’ unique wildlife.
Early deforestation and the introduction of new species of flora and fauna have put native species under threat. In recent years, ecologists have had to work hard to protect the rare indigenous species which remain.
This effort of conservation and sustainability is mimicked by Constance Hotels & Resorts for our tourist activity to have the weakest impact on the environment and to contribute to the local heritage and biodiversity preservation and community development.
Challenges and Successes in Mauritian Conservation
Organisations like the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation have played a crucial role in these efforts.
Notable conservation successes include bringing several species back from the brink of extinction. These success stories highlight the effectiveness of dedicated conservation programmes and offer hope for the future of Mauritius’ wildlife.
For instance, Mauritius has achieved remarkable success in saving three iconic bird species from the brink of extinction. The Mauritius Kestrel, once the world’s rarest bird, has rebounded from just 4 individuals in 1974 to over 400 today. The Echo Parakeet, the only native parrot of the Mascarenes, has increased from fewer than 20 in the 1980s to over 750 now. Similarly, the Pink Pigeon has recovered from less than 20 birds in the 1990s to a current population exceeding 400.
These successes, achieved through intensive conservation efforts including habitat restoration, predator control, captive breeding, and population management, showcase Mauritius’ commitment to preserving its unique biodiversity.
Birdwatching in Mauritius: A Feast for Ornithologists
Besides the rescued Mauritian species, many other winged visitors make the island a birdwatcher’s paradise. Keen ornithologists can spot a variety of species throughout the year.
The Wandering Albatross can occasionally be spotted off the coast, while the Great Frigatebird is sometimes seen in Mauritian waters.
Discover the wildlife of Mauritius
The Red-footed Booby nests on some of Mauritius’ offshore islets, and the Striated Heron is a common sight in coastal areas.
The Mauritius Kestrel remains the only bird of prey endemic to Mauritius.
While the Mauritius Rail is sadly extinct, the White-throated Rail can be found on nearby Aldabra.
The Common Sandpiper is a regular visitor to Mauritius’ shores, and the Sooty Tern nests in large numbers on some of Mauritius’ outer islands.
Exploring Mauritius’ Wildlife Hotspots
Black River Gorges National Park: A Natural Wonder
One of the best thing to do in Mauritius and best places for visitors to get close to the island’s wildlife is the beautiful Black River Gorges National Park in the south west of the country.
Spanning 65 square kilometres, this protected area is a sanctuary for many of the island’s native species. Within the park, visitors can encounter indigenous reptiles, including the Mauritius Day Gecko.
Pink pigeons are often seen feeding on native fruits, while Mauritian Kestrels can sometimes be spotted hunting in forest clearings.
The distinctive calls of Echo parakeets can be heard echoing through the forest, and Mauritian flying foxes, large fruit bats that play a crucial role in seed dispersal, can be observed in flight or roosting in trees.
Marine Life: Treasures Beneath the Waves
Diving and Snorkelling in Mauritius
Below the ocean waves lies a cornucopia of rich marine life. Mauritius’ waters are teeming with diverse aquatic species, from large marine mammals to colourful reef-dwelling fish.
Divers and snorkellers can take part into the best diving activities and marvel at stunning coral reefs that are home to over 200 species of hard and soft corals.
The waters are populated by a variety of fish species, including the Emperor Angelfish, known for its striking blue and yellow coloration. The Moorish idol, with its distinctive black, white, and yellow bands, is a common sight, as is the vibrant Lined Butterflyfish. Snappers, including the popular Two-spot Red Snapper, inhabit the reefs, while the Giant Grouper can sometimes be spotted in deeper waters.
Both Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles frequent Mauritian waters, offering lucky divers unforgettable encounters.
Sport Fishing in Mauritian Waters
For keen sports fishers for big game, Mauritius’ waters offer exciting opportunities to catch various prized fish species.
The Swordfish, known for its distinctive bill and prized for its meat, is a popular target.
Barracuda, fast predatory fish often found near reefs, provide an exciting challenge for anglers.
Yellowfin tuna, a popular target for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts, and Skipjack tuna, smaller but equally sought after, are both found in Mauritian waters.
Responsible fishing practices are encouraged to ensure the sustainability of these marine resources.
Embark to an Adventure in this Biodiversity Hotspot
Mauritius stands as a testament to the power of conservation and the beauty of biodiversity. From its lush forests to its vibrant coral reefs, the island offers nature lovers an unparalleled opportunity to witness and appreciate a wide array of plant and animal species.
As visitors explore this natural paradise, they are reminded of the importance of preserving these unique ecosystems for future generations.
The ongoing conservation efforts and the island’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage ensure that Mauritius will continue to be a haven for wildlife and a source of wonder for nature enthusiasts from around the world.