Ile aux Aigrettes

Ile aux Aigrettes is a small (27 ha) island situated in the Mahebourg Bay, about 850 m off the south-east coast of Mauritius. Unlike the mainland which is of volcanic origin, Ile aux Aigrettes is made up of coralline limestone. It is home to the last remnants of dry coastal forest, once found around most of coastal Mauritius. Like the mainland, Ile aux Aigrettes was affected by logging and land clearance, and the introduction of exotic animal and plant species almost destroyed the native animals and plants. In 1965 the island was declared a Nature Reserve. Subsequent intense conservation efforts have resulted in the restoration of the forest and reintroduction of rare species that had long since disappeared from the island.

For visits, please contact the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) on the following telephone numbers: (230) 631 2396 or (230) 5258 8139 (mobile)