A stroll on the shores of Mauritius is incomplete without a stop at the Pélicans island. This small, uninhabited islet off the southeast coast is a nesting ground for the endangered Pélican. With a population of just 60 pairs, this is the world’s second most endangered seabird after the Hawaiian monk seal.
In addition to its importance for conservation, Pélicans island is also famous for its abundant birdlife, including the Réunion kestrel and the Mauritian harpy eagle.
Contents
All Discussion Of Pélicans Island
History
The Pélicans islet was first colonized by the Dutch in 1638. The British took over Mauritius in 1810, and the island remained a part of their colonial holdings until 1968. Today, it is administered as a National Park by the Government of Mauritius.
The Pélicans arelet has been designated an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International because it supports populations of three endemic bird species and is a known breeding site for the endemic black-bellied tern. It also supports populations of six nonendemic species, including short-tailed rail, Indian duck and sulphur-winged grassbird.
Climate
The Pélicans islet experiences a tropical climate with temperatures averaging 26°C. The rainy season runs from January to May, while the dry season lasts from June to September. The Pélicans islet has been described as “extremely important both ecologically and culturally” by National Geographic News, on account of the islets abundance in seabirds. Notable Seabirds
The Pélicans islet is home to several endemics, a listing of animals and plants unique occurrences on this island. Some examples are: black-bellied tern – often considered the world’s rarest seabird species; Réunion kestrel – endemic bird found nowhere else in the world; chestnut rooster bird which only occurs here on Mauritius Island ; black-crowned night heron – one of only two known populations in the world.
Culture
The Pélicans islet is one of the most important nesting sites for the black-bellied tern. About 150,000 pairs of these birds nest here each year, creating much disturbance to vegetation and human activities on the island. Local residents are estimated to number around 500 and they practice a transhumance (herds move from one location to another) with their cattle throughout the year.
Politics
The Pélicans islet is part of the Polotra area, which has been disputed by Taiwan and China since 1992. The United Nations has given Taiwan the island until 2008 to claim it. A tourist post, islets and pier are located at the northern end of the Pélicans islet.
It provides visitors with a chairlift accessing rocky outcrops considered as marine reserves which has become rare on eastern reef islands because of island development in recent years. Pélicans islet prominently forms the northern section of Mauritius.
A smaller Pélican island lies in its central sector, having a length of around 100 metres and covering an area that ranges between 6500 – 9000 m2 (4–6 acres). The two main parts can be separable but for access one needs to pass through equidistant mangrove channels which allows passage from the interior sea.
Government services
The Pélicans islet is located within the jurisdiction of the Port-Louis Municipal Council. The registered population resides on around 5 hectares (12 acres) with agricultural lands on its periphery.
Church facilities
The Pélicans Church has a recent tower that rises from a small plateau adjacent to an airstrip serving as stopover for yachts and tourists en route to Rodrigues Island . There is an unobstructed one-way path (16–30 metres wide) that directs sightseers to the church and island. The western side of the Pélicans clerical tower has a rounded ceiling on which there are few stone carvings excluding four large Celtic crosses from Norway, Ireland, Italy and Scotland hanging where it may cast shadows during certain parts of the year.
Tourism
The Pélicans islet has a small tourist post with a chairlift that accessed rocky outcrops considered as marine reserves. This area had been rare on eastern reef islands because of island development in recent years. The Pélicans islet prominently forms the northern section of Mauritius.
A smaller Pélican island lies in its central sector, having a length of around 100 metres and covering an area that ranges between 6500 – 9000 m2 (4–6 acres). The two main parts can be separable but for access one needs to pass through equidistant mangrove channels which allows passage from the interior sea.
Transport
There is no airstrip serving the Pélicans; airport services are available from Port Louis on Rodrigues Island. Transport facilities to Pélicans are available on a daily basis via the Port Louis-San Pedro-Mauritius route.
The service arrives at nearest landing strip by nautical time (GMT+2) only due to prevailing winds and tide times that must be taken into consideration for access through navigational channels between eastern coral reef islands with distances varying from about 15–30 kilometres in total length depending on water currents, wind direction and tide.
Cuisine
The local cuisine of Pélicans is based around seafood such as lobster, crab and prawns. There are also a few vegetables that may be grown locally. The most popular dish on the island is Mauritian hooligan chicken (charcoal-grilled marinated mixed poultry) which can be found at most restaurants serving local cuisine.
Another popular dish is roast beef with gravy over boiled potatoes or mashed potato alternatively rice pilaf could be made. The local canters are sold in season at the market of Port Louis located at Long Beach to ensure good stock on Pélicans over winter time as it is noted to be a key food article for survival though not available all-year round during certain phases.
Conclusion
If you have ever wondered what the Galápagos Islands look like, now is your chance to find out! Pélicans island, located in the eastern part of the archipelago, is home to a population of giant petrels. The birds are so large that they can nearly reach the ground with their wingspan. Although visitors are not allowed to approach the birds, they can take photos from a safe distance.
FAQ
1.How Can I Find Pélicans Island?
Ans: The easiest way to find Pélicans is to use an online map or navigation system. Once you have found the island, make sure to consult the location details for accurate information.
2.What Activities Can I Do On The Island?
Ans: Pélicans is a fairly quiet place, and it is possible to see fellow travellers enjoying their time with no zealous protection forces protecting them. However you may also find locals doing some whale watching as well! In addition, track divers can have a go at seeing one of these giant petrels close-up in the village pools from around February to July.
3.What Is The Population Of Pélicans Island?
Ans: The estimated population in 2017 was 60 pairs. The species is critically endangered so this small number represents a global conservation challenge.
4.How Can I Get To Pélicans Island?
Ans: The nearest airport is in Grand Anse on Marie Galante. From the airport, you will need to book a transfer with a local operator. This should cost around US$30 for up to four people.
5.What Are Some Of The Dangers Associated With Visiting Pélicans Island?
Ans: There are no specific dangers associated with visiting this location but always take sensible precautions such as travelling with a guide or in groups.
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