The Seychelles White-eye
Tropical islands all around the world are seen as idyllic Edens. But in fact, they are incredibly vulnerable to alien species invasion and degradation and many are far from pristine and cannot serve their vital purpose as sanctuaries of evolution and protection. North Island is different.
More about this species
Our Noah’s Ark Project, running since 1997, has transformed North Island into a haven for both leisurely relaxation and indulgence as well as a refuge for endangered and endemic Seychelles fauna and flora. When we and our conservation partners first introduced 25 Seychelles white-eyes to the island in 2007 the species was regarded as Critically Endangered. Several years and breeding seasons later and our population has grown to more than 60 birds. This small bird is now regarded as being ‘just’ Endangered – a dramatic improvement, partly thanks to luxury ecotourism.
Where to see them
While Seychelles white-eyes can now be found on a number of Seychelles islands, the population on Mahé and on Conception are difficult to get to. North Island, one of the inner granitic islands, offers the opportunity to see this endemic species (along with a number of others) fairly easily. Here, at dawn, you can hear them singing.