How a lot are you aware about Comoros? If the reply is just not a lot, you’re not alone.
This underrated archipelago off the east coast of Africa is commonly missed in favour of its fabulous neighbours reminiscent of Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles.
However travellers seeking to transcend the shiny Indian Ocean brochures are in for a deal with. Comoros is house to a few of the world’s richest marine biodiversity and the island of Mohéli was designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2020.
On our new nine-day Comoros Wildlife Expedition, travellers will get the prospect to identify humpback whales and spinner dolphins, watch sea turtles nest and snorkel amongst manta rays, parrot fish and reef sharks alongside vibrant coral reefs.
We caught up with native marine ranger Salim Ben Ali – in any other case generally known as Rambo – to study extra in regards to the islands’ wildlife and perceive how conservation efforts are bettering the chances for uncommon and endangered species.
When did you turn into a ranger and why?
I was a farmer and a fisherman. I may see that our nation has superb pure riches however I may additionally see that they have been beginning to disappear.
I turned a ranger in 2014 as a result of I wished to guard these landscapes and creatures – if we don’t do it, our youngsters may have nothing. I additionally need to shield our superb pure atmosphere in order that guests from different international locations may come and revel in the great thing about Comoros.
What wildlife can travellers spot in Comoros?
We now have many endemic species in Comoros – from the Moheli brush warbler to the Grand Comoro day gecko – in addition to lemurs, flamingos and varied forms of dolphins and whales. Rangers really feel a accountability to guard all of them and protect the biodiversity of our islands. We now have many success tales already.
The Livingstone’s fruit bat (or flying fox) – discovered solely on the islands of Anjouan and Moheli – is likely one of the world’s largest bats. They’re threatened by deforestation and growth of human settlements into their habitat. However by means of Moheli Nationwide Park’s work to guard the forests, numbers are rising.
Inexperienced sea turtles are additionally in danger. Sadly, human poaching could be a actual menace, as they’re very susceptible when nesting on seashores. Due to academic packages and our work as rangers patrolling for poachers, native persons are studying in regards to the significance of conservation and this menace has been enormously diminished.
One of many rarest animals noticed round Moheli is the dugong. Whereas poaching of those mild giants has now ceased, they’re nonetheless susceptible because of the lack of their main meals supply, sea grass. Sea grass beds have diminished on account of erosion and sedimentation from elevated cultivation on the island. Packages are actually in place to coach farmers with higher methods to cut back topsoil erosion and sedimentation, which can enhance sea grass progress and assist give the dugongs an opportunity to rebound.
My favorite creatures are humpback whales. It’s unbelievable to be near such an unlimited animal however really feel no sense of aggression on their half or worry on mine. It’s one thing that few individuals get to expertise. Each time, I’m reminded how vital it’s for us to guard them, in order that future generations have the prospect to share this similar expertise.
Why ought to nature lovers go to Comoros?
Moheli Nationwide Park employees have been working exhausting to protect the unbelievable nature right here for greater than 20 years. There have been quite a few latest research by worldwide scientists who’ve confirmed that each our marine atmosphere and the first forest listed below are exceptionally well-preserved examples of Indian Ocean island ecosystems.
We now have one of many highest ranges of marine biodiversity on this planet. So in case you are in search of the prospect to discover a fantastic pure atmosphere that few travellers have ever seen, then come go to us right here in Comoros!
Impressed to embark on a nature-themed journey on these lesser-known African isles? Try our Comoros Wildlife Expedition.
