Exploring Fiji Wildlife

Fiji wildlife features many different species of fish and birds, several of which thrive only in Fiji. There are a few land animals such as reptiles but Fiji wildlife is composed mostly of magnificent tropical birds. In fact, Fiji has more than 100 bird species. The rainforests around the main island of Viti Levu is home to many exotic tropical birds especially along Coral Coast and the Pacific Harbour. The large island of Kadavu, which also has dense rainforests, has several amazing birds such as musk parrots and the colorful Honeyeaters and enchanting Fantails.

To the north is Taveuni, which is another site of rich birdlife featuring different parrots and the playful lorikeets. In the neighboring island of Vanua Levu are the endangered Silktail, which is endemic to the forests in the area. Several small islands are now declared as Nature and Bird Reserves including the Namenalala Island, the Mabualau Island and the Bird Island.

Fiji wildlife features few natural land animals. Some common ones are geckoes, land crabs and giant toads. There is the imported mongoose. However, Fiji wildlife does have several unique animal species such as the banded iguana, which is indigenous to the island of Yaduataba. Banded iguanas change color to control its body heat and are close relatives of South American iguanas. There are also several tree frog species in certain rainforests in Fiji such as those in Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Fiji rainforests also offers rare sightings of boa snakes.

Fishes, turtles and other marine life form another significant part of Fiji wildlife.
Many beaches in Fiji are in fact nesting grounds of sea turtles. Some resorts have initiated conservation programs to protect and help increase Fiji's turtle population. There is also more awareness among resorts, which are doing their part in educating locals about hunting turtles for their meat. The tropical water of the South Pacific Ocean is home to diverse marine life including rays, dolphins and sharks. Exploring the waters of Fiji, one will find extraordinary coral varieties featuring exotic fishes and sea snakes.

The most popular Fiji wildlife park is the Kula Wildlife Park, which is outside the Sigatoka town on the Coral Coast. It has an incredible collection of Fiji wildlife and promotes the conservation of the endangered species of Fiji. You can also go to Orchid Island just outside the capital town of Suva and see its collection of Fiji wildlife that includes iguanas, parrots, sea turtles and snakes.