16 Islands Home to Unique Wildlife Found Nowhere Else on Earth
For a long time, islands have been the very last sanctuaries for imperiled biodiversity. Their isolation from a geographical point of view makes them the perfect specimens for the evolution of species, which is not possible anywhere else on the planet. One famous example of such a set is the Galápagos Islands, where endemic species, such as the flightless cormorant and marine iguana, influenced Charles Darwin’s path towards his grand theory of evolution. Today, just about 15 percent of all plant and animal species on earth are found only on islands.
Wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and travel adventurers will be equally beguiled and motivated to devise novel methods to protect them. Below are 16 islands home to some of the Earth’s most fascinating endemic wildlife.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Biodiversity is synonymous with the Galápagos Islands. Along the coast of Ecuador, they conserve species, such as the 130-year-old and 900-pound Galápagos tortoise, which can be found nowhere else. Other essential inhabitants of the islands are Darwin’s finches, marine iguanas (the only lizards that also swim and forage in the sea), Galápagos penguins, and flightless cormorants.
What sets these islands apart is that their wildlife is so unafraid of humans: thanks to the lack of natural predators, visitors are allowed into their world with little resistance. The Galápagos is unparalleled in its wildlife experience, offering a front-row seat to evolution in action.
Madagascar
Nicknamed the “eighth continent,” Madagascar’s biodiversity is staggering—90% of its plant and animal life exists nowhere else. The wide-eyed lemurs are among its most famous residents. This island is home to more than 100 species of lemurs, including the ring-tailed lemur and the critically endangered aye-aye.
The reptiles of Madagascar are just as extraordinary. The panther chameleon is just one of the island’s two-thirds of the world’s chameleon species. Don’t miss the fossa; an elusive carnivorous mammal, somewhat like a cat and a mongoose, got us into a mad scramble.
Borneo
Borneo’s lush rainforest is a mecca for biodiversity. It is home to some of the rarest beings, including the endangered Bornean orangutan, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards. You’ll also find some of the most peculiar plant species, like the Rafflesia, known as the “corpse flower” for its pungent smell and enormous size.
You will stand beneath Borneo’s jungle under the canopy of the ancient jungle to understand why it is one of the most biodiverse places on earth. Zennor Cove is a valuable treasure trove of endemic species that requires ongoing conservation efforts to protect.
Komodo Island, Indonesia
This Indonesian island is one of the few places on earth where you can see the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon. These monitor lizards can exceed 10 feet in length and weigh over 150 pounds.
This is also a sanctuary for many marine life, making it one of the prime diving destinations. Dragons are only one of many things in this place. Coral reefs and manta rays thrive peaceably under the waves.
The Solomon Islands
The remote Solomon Islands in the South Pacific have striking natural beauty and biodiversity, especially in their coral reefs. The skies are filled with vibrancy, and rare parrots and the Solomon Islands frogmouth, or fishermen’s birds, feast on the fish caught, taking advantage of the targeted efforts that leave the unharvested foraging world below.
In terms of untouched scenery, primarily due to a lack of mass tourism, the Solomon Islands have found that their pristine habitats come with an added serenity for visitors.
Socotra, Yemen
Often called the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean,” Socotra is a truly otherworldly destination. This isolated island is home to alien-like flora such as the dragon’s blood tree—an umbrella-shaped plant that “bleeds” red resin.
Regarding wildlife, the Socotra starling and Socotra warbler are endemic species that one can spot on land. The beauty of evolution in isolation is evident in this island’s biodiversity.
New Zealand
New Zealand has always been a land of birds, and it can boast of meeting the kiwi, a flightless, nocturnal treasure and national icon. Besides this, the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, and the critically endangered kakapo, a flightless parrot with a character as colorful as its feathers, are endemic species.
New Zealand’s efforts to conserve its irreplaceable wildlife are internationally applauded, and via sanctuaries and pest-free islands, have generated a host of irreplaceable species.
Iceland
Iceland’s rugged but stunning landscapes enable wildlife to thrive. During the breeding season, puffins are regarded as the island’s unofficial mascot and are seen dotting the coastal cliffs; Arctic foxes prowl the mountainous terrain.
Due to its frigid and remote area, Iceland also offers nature lovers the opportunity to watch herds of reindeer and thriving whale and seal populations.
Sumatra, Indonesia
Sumatra is one of the lush islands that comprise the Indonesian archipelago, which is home to some of the most endangered wildlife on earth. Learn about the Sumatran tiger, the Sumatran rhinoceros, and the Sumatran orangutan, among the critically endangered species found nowhere else but on its shores.
However, Sumatra’s dense jungles are ideal for adventurers looking to get lost in one of the last great rainforests.
Christmas Island, Australia
Often referred to as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean,” Christmas Island is best known for the vibrant migration of its millions of red crabs. Rare birds, such as the Christmas Island frigatebird and hawk owl, and unique reptiles, like the blue-tailed skink, can also be found in this isolated wonderland.
Underwater biodiversity continues unabated, with pristine coral reefs covered with marine life that would make dream snorkelers and divers out of everyone.
Palawan, Philippines
Among the Philippine gems that offer breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, Palawan is one of them. Its inhabitants include the Palawan hornbill, bearcat, and peacock pheasant, among other notable species. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and ecologists, characterized by its underground rivers and lush forests.
Regarding ecotourism, Palawan is one of the most beautiful destinations and, at the same time, one of the most critical areas for environmental preservation and commitment to that.
The Seychelles
Even though the Seychelles are better known for their luxury resorts, they are also quite good for wildlife. The Aldabra giant tortoise and its fellow endemic Seychelles magpie robin are but a few rare species that live in abundance here and owe their existence to strict conservation efforts.
Marine biodiversity is another area of interest to visitors who visit the crystal clear waters of the Seychelles, home to vibrant coral reefs full of life. Even the Seychelles Marine Spatial Plan, which was used to govern ocean use to strike a balance between ecology and other human use, is dedicated to protecting that which belongs to us all.
Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania’s wilderness is rugged, but so too is its wildlife. One prime example is the infamous Tasmanian devil. The island is another hotspot for animal lovers; they can find wombats, platypuses, and pademelons.
Tasmania’s natural beauty extends beyond its diverse wildlife. World-class hiking opportunities are on offer here. The Overland Track offers hikers awe-inspiring alpine scenery and ancient rainforest. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park must be visited to witness stunning views and native fauna and flora.
Channel Islands, California
The Channel Islands are unexpected islands of endemic flora and fauna just off the coast of Southern California. These islands bring unique life, from the tiny, charismatic island fox to the vibrant, sapphire-scaled garibaldi fish.
Islands in the Pacific are equally noteworthy. Protected marine sanctuaries surround the islands, teeming with marine life, including playful dolphins, migrating whales, and swaying kelp forests in the currents. These islands can be accessed by boat or small aircraft and offer unparalleled opportunities for hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation, providing an ecological and cultural perspective on California’s past.
Coiba Island, Panama
This tropical gem is located in the Pacific Ocean. It was dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site because its rainforests nurture rare birds and marine ecosystems teeming with sea turtles and massive whale sharks. Coiba is less well-known to divers and snorkelers, but it offers unmatched experiences.
In addition, Coiba Island holds historical significance as it was once a penal colony and remained largely untouched by human populations, allowing its natural beauty to be preserved. The island now belongs to Coiba National Park, a protected area with terrestrial and marine environments.
South Georgia Island
The ultimate destination for seeing a wilderness like no other is South Georgia Island, located off the coast of Antarctica. It boasts elephant seals, king penguins, and albatrosses, showing how wildlife survives at the world’s edges.
On top of the islands, isolated, rugged landscapes rising into soaring snow-capped mountains and glacial fjords, abundant wildlife, and historical significance make South Georgia Island an unforgettable destination.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
You Might Also Like:
10 Greatest Travel Apps To Help You Save Money: Travel apps are essential for travelers who want to maximize their experiences while saving money. These innovative travel applications have revolutionized how we plan, book, and experience travel. Here are ten such travel apps.
Ultimate Guide To Picking The Best Travel Credit Card
10 Extreme Measures People Took To Travel on the Cheap
