The Maldivian archipelago is thriving with wildlife that is truly wild in scope. Guided by ever-tropical environs, the organisms there are sights to see for casual and professional enthusiasts, a gallery of vibrant lifeforms showcasing an incredible diversity of over 2000 species across 26 atolls in total.
Walhai_Front | img by Dapaan via wikipedia commons
Fruit Bats
Fruit bats are quite common around the resort properties across the Maldives, staying on trees with heads tucked inward. Their nightly squabbling and crooning signals their exits from these spots, and they are also known as the Flying Foxes.
Turtles
Although the sapphire waters are a great part of most Maldives excursions, the stretch of sea waters also ensures a healthy variety of sea life. In this way, many turtle species such as the Leatherback, Hawksbill and Green turtles are found in great numbers, and many conservation bodies host initiatives to keep the waters as clean as possible while aiding sea life. If planned correctly, you may even be able to see the newly-hatched turtles head out into the water.
Birds
In the Maldivian archipelago, the pelagic bird species is quite common. In and around various resort properties such as the Kurumathi Maldives, visitors can see the varied Heron species to the seasonal Frigatebirds. Other than those two, there are also Terns, Waterhens, and the tropical Audubon’s Shearwater bird. The archipelago itself contributes to the growth of these sea birds, many of which migrate from Eurasia.
Sharks
Almost every nook and cranny of the Maldives is host to a fascinating display of wildlife. In this case, the atolls of the Maldives contain sharks! The Baa, Ari, Maaya Thila and Rasdhoo atolls are considered the hotspots for watching species such as the Reef, Whale, and the elusive Hammerhead. There are also certain species such as the Blacktip Reef sharks that are used by divers, able to swim around them without interference.