Close your eyes and think of the most idyllic summer holiday destination that you could imagine; the image of soft sandy beaches and the turquoise blue ocean are mirrored on the coastline of Seychelles. This island archipelago which has a total of 115 islands is located on the western Indian Ocean and is a favourite among travellers for its great weather and hospitality. What sets the Seychelles apart from the rest of the beach destinations is its inherent exotic appeal that is a result of it being located close to the mystical African islands of Madagascar and Zanzibar and its French colonial heritage.
The islands were annexed by the French in order to control the burgeoning piracy that was threatening its vessels in the Indian Ocean. Subsequently, the islands were claimed by the British until finally being granted independence in 1976. Tourism has been an important part of the country’s economy and many tourists come here for its perfect beaches and rich biodiversity.
Bird Island is a part of the archipelago that makes up the Seychelles. It is located about sixty miles to the north of the main island of Mahe. The island is renowned for its diverse bird life, as it is virtually free of human habitation and it has become the perfect nesting place for migrating birds. The commonest variety that can be seen are the Sooty Terns; a bird count has reached around 700,000 nesting pairs. These birds usually arrive during March and leave during October, so the summer months are the best time for bird watchers to head here.
Due to the location of the Seychelles, it is probably the first landfall for birds migrating from Europe to Asia, thus the months of October through to December are peak months for arrivals. Though the island is famous for its birds, the shoreline is also known to be the nesting site for the endangered Hawksbill Turtle that is found only in the Indian Ocean.
Guest staying at a Seychelles hotel can enter the islands via boat. If you are staying at a hotel in Seychelles such as Raffles Praslin Seychelles that organizes visits to the island, do not miss that opportunity.
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