These beautiful Blue Safari atolls host an incredible diversity of bird species, some of which are endemic to the region. Whilst some unique populations are found on multiple islands, there are some species which are endemic to only one specific island.

The islands of St. François, Astove, Cosmoledo and Aldabra have populations of Crab Plover which is unique to the western Indian Ocean. The atolls of Cosmoledo and Astove hold healthy populations of Sunbird, White-eye, Cisticola and Turtle Dove. Forming part of the incredible array of over 250 bird species found in the region, these endemic species are very special and add to the rich biodiversity of these islands.

Bird watching in the Seychelles, especially the Outer Islands, is a truly wonderful experience that will excite and inspire.

During the non-breeding season the island of St. François along with Cosmoledo and Aldabra Atolls have been known to play host to almost 10% of the world’s Crab Plover populations, as well as various other species. Although many species can be found here throughout the year, there are also a large number of migratory species that use these islands for overwintering breeding grounds or a stopover as they travel to other regions.

Annual migrant birds of the Outer Islands include Ruddy Turnstone, Whimbrel, Greater and Lesser Sand Plover, Grey Plover, Crab Plover, Common Ringed Plover, Curlew Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Sanderling, Bar-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Curlew, Barn Swallow and Common Greenshank.Vagrant birds have included species such as Common Cuckoo, Broad-billed Roller, European and Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Sandmartin, Northern Wheatear, Willow Warbler, Collared and Black-winged Pratincole, Elenora’s Falcon and Eurasian Hobby.

Following the birdwatchers' code is good practice, common sense and should enable all of us to enjoy spotting birds.

1. Avoid disturbing birds and their habitats
2. Be an ambassador for birdwatching. Avoid going too close to birds or disturbing their habitats. If a bird flies away or makes repeated alarm calls, you’re too close. And if it leaves, you will not get a good view.
3. Birds, habitats & the law! Follow your guide at all times as he knows the law, the rules and the terrain.
4. Keeping records! Share your sightings with the ICS Conservation Team and record/make a list of your exciting sightings.
5. Think about the interests of wildlife and local people before passing on news of a rare bird, especially during the breeding season.
6. Birds respond to people in many ways, depending on the species, location and time of year.
7. Disturbance can keep birds from their nests, leaving chicks hungry or enabling predators to take eggs or young.