Cousin Island Nature Reserve is an island situated nearby Praslin in the Seychelles and is famous for its successful conservation program. This island has an area of approximately 27 hectares, but it is one of the largest nature reserves in the area with a mission to protect endangered animals and maintain an untouched habitat for them. Owned and operated by Nature Seychelles, Cousin Island is an important breeding ground for some of the bird species and is endowed with a rich marine life that makes it an ideal subject of eco-tourism. The beaches, forests, and coral reefs surrounding the island give vacationing guests a true wilderness experience without leaving the country. If you are a bird watcher, a marine life enthusiast, or if you want to take a tour of a protected area, then Cousin Island is one of the best places to visit in the Seychelles.
Wildlife and Conservation Efforts on Cousin Island
Bird Species and Avian Highlights
Cousin Island is attractive to bird lovers since it is home to endemic as well as migratory birds. The island is also inhabited by the critically endangered Seychelles warbler, which now thrives thanks to the conservation program on the island. Other related species include the Seychelles magpie-robin, the Seychelles fody, and the Seychelles blue pigeon. Cousin Island is also the breeding place for some of the sea birds, such as white-tailed tropic birds and lesser noddies. Tourists can also take guided tours of the islands birding sites, and therefore it is a good tourist destination for bird lovers and conservationists.
Marine Life and Turtles
Marine life is also abundant around Cousin Island, especially in the waters, which makes snorkeling and scuba diving a must-do activity on the island. The island is also an important nesting ground for endangered hawksbill turtles. Tourists who tour the area during the nesting period, which is from October to February, may be privileged to see young turtles crawling to the sea. But apart from the turtles, Cousin Island is surrounded by coral reefs where various fish species, rays, and reef sharks thrive for the enjoyment of marine lovers.
Reptiles and Other Wildlife
Not only avian and marine species, but also on the island, there are several terrestrial inhabitants, such as skinks and geckos. Another free-moving reptile found on the island is the giant Aldabra tortoise. The island has the conservation of all wildlife species, and it also preserves the role of each of the species, even the tiny ones, in the ecology of the island.
Activities and Tours on Cousin Island
Guided Nature Walks
The only way to navigate around the island and appreciate the various ecosystems is by hiring a guided nature walk from professional rangers. These tours give a close view of the islands fauna and you can get information regarding the programs that are in place to protect the animals. The guides are professional and friendly, providing information about the special plants and animals that have turned Cousin Island into a premier conservation area. During the walk you will be able to observe seabirds nesting, endemic reptiles and other interesting fauna, therefore it is an exciting journey.
Snorkeling and Water Activities
Snorkeling around the Cousin Island is one of the things that every tourist should not miss. The coral reefs that are found around the island are breeding grounds for some of the most colorful fish such as parrotfish, angelfish and octopuses. The waters are crystal clear, so you can see the underwater world without any problem. There are also professional snorkeling tours with a possibility to observe sea turtles and reef sharks in their natural environment. Ecological tours, particularly snorkeling tours, provide brief descriptions of the reefs and the need to preserve the marine environment.
Birdwatching and Photography
The bird watchers and photographers will have an opportunity to capture the wildlife photographs of their lifetime at Cousin Island. Thanks to the numerous endemic avifauna and stunning topography, the island is a photographers paradise for bird watching. The most suitable occasions to watch birds are in the morning and in the evening since most birds in the island are most probably more active at these times. Do not leave your camera and binoculars home because there is so much to see and photograph in this extraordinary landscape.
Best Time to Visit Cousin Island
Visiting Cousin Island is best done at different times depending on the wildlife you are interested in seeing. For bird watching, the island has active birds throughout the year, but the best chance to see birds breeding and rearing their chicks is from April to September. If you are a lover of sea turtles, the best time to visit is between October and February, when hawksbill turtles come to lay their eggs or when the hatchlings are emerging from the nests. When on Cousin Island, dress lightly, wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors, and pack lightly. Pack some sun protection, including sunblock, a hat, and sunglasses because the island can be really hot. Good pairs of shoes for walking are mandatory for nature trails, and do not forget your camera and binoculars for birding. If you are planning to snorkel, try to take your own equipment in case and a refillable water bottle for water activities.
How to Get to Cousin Island
Cousin Island is located approximately 2 kilometers from the coast of Praslin, and getting to the island is mostly done by boat. The visitors can hire a ferry or a boat from Praslin, which can be reached by a flight from Mah or by ferry. Most of the tours to the Cousin Island start from Praslin; therefore, those visitors who are planning to visit the island can easily combine the two islands. Cousin Island is about a 15- to 30-minute boat ride from Mahe, and during this ride, tourists can get to view beautiful sites. Cousin Island is a nature reserve, and therefore visitors are only allowed in limited numbers and with prior permission. Tourists are allowed on the island only by prior appointment, and they are expected to go around the island in groups. It is $15 per person to enter, and everyone is expected to observe the principles of eco-tourism in the park. Tour booking is highly recommended so that you can be sure of your place in the tour.
Conclusion
Cousin Island Nature Reserve offers a truly unique experience for visitors interested in eco-tourism, wildlife conservation, and natural beauty. With its diverse ecosystems, thriving bird populations, and ongoing efforts to protect endangered species like the hawksbill turtle, Cousin Island is a must-visit destination in the Seychelles. Whether youre exploring the island on a guided nature walk, snorkeling in its crystal-clear waters, or simply taking in the tranquility of the untouched landscape, Cousin Island provides a rare opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form. Plan your visit and experience the magic of this remarkable island.
