Do you know that, biodiversity of Seychelles has been in threat since the arrival of first explorers? For their survival and food, settlers cut down forests. Unfortunately, hillsides of the Mahe Islands were barren even after hundred years of colonization. Due to great amount of destruction, several species may also have become extinct.

With the help of early naturalists, extinction of three snail, one mammal, one crocodile and seven birds’ species came into light.  In current times, threat to biodiversity of Seychelles still exists. As compare to earlier times, development is rapidly spreading everywhere. Nowadays, with the availability of fast boats, satellite navigators and echo sounders, unique and distant islands like Seychelles are becoming quite accessible.

Unfortunately, destructive human activities are the major cause of  threats for the wildlife. Major threats are loss of habitat, degradation, invasive species, pollution and disease. Another immensely growing threat is the climate change.

You would be astonished to know that some of the magnificent forest reptiles are in serious threat. With the introduction of alien plants, such as cinnamon, forest degradation has been taken place. This led to the threat of these reptiles. Another endangered species is the tiger chameleon or Calumma tigris. This species is also under the threat of extinction.

Another awesome species, giant bronze gecko is also on the verge of extinction. Not to forget the Sheath tailed Bat, who is the most endangered species amongst all the endemic species found on Seychelles. One of the major suspects for such a huge decline of this species is pesticide.  In order to take the situation under control, various habitat restoration programs on Silhouette and Praslin Islands have been undertaken.