Fauna in Sal island
Sal, one of the largest islands in Cape Verde, is an ideal place for nature and animal lovers. The fauna of Sal consists mainly of endemic species of birds, reptiles and insects.
In general, Sal is an island rich in biodiversity, with a variety of animals and plants that can only be found on this island. For nature lovers, a visit to Sal is a unique opportunity to closely observe the fauna and flora of this unique island.
Terrestrial fauna
One of the most notable species found on Sal is the Cape Verde giant gecko, also known as Tarentola gigas. This large gecko can grow up to 20 centimetres in length and can be found in the island’s rocky habitats. Another reptile that can be found on Sal is the Cape Verde skink, or Chalcides viridanus. This small skink is found in the island’s dry shrubland areas and can grow up to 14 centimetres in length.
The island is also home to several species of lizards, such as the Cape Verde rock lizard, or Lacerta septemvittata, and the Cape Verde wall gecko, or Tarentola caboverdiana. Both of these species can be found in the island’s rocky habitats and are known for their unique colouration and patterns.
In addition to reptiles, Sal is also home to a variety of mammals, including dogs, donkeys and the Cape Verde shrew, or Crocidura poensis. This small shrew is found in the island’s dry shrubland areas and is known for its ability to survive in harsh desert conditions. The island is also home to several species of bats, including the lesser white-lined bat, or Nyctalus leisleri, and the Cape Verde serotine bat, or Eptesicus guineensis. These bats can be found in the island’s caves and abandoned buildings.
Birds of Sal island
Sal Island, Cape Verde is home to a diverse range of bird species, many of which are unique to the region. The island’s unique geography, with its barren landscapes, salt flats, and coastal habitats, provides a diverse range of habitats for a variety of bird species. The island’s location in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean also makes it an important stopover for migratory birds.
One of the most notable bird species found on Sal Island is the Caspian Tern. This large tern species is easily recognizable by its distinctive black cap and red bill. They are often seen along the coast, perched on rocks or flying overhead in search of fish. The Caspian Tern is a migratory species, and many of them stopover on the island during their annual migration.
Another bird species that can be found on Sal Island is the Kelp Gull. This bird species is found along the coast and is characterized by its white head and black wingtips. The Kelp Gull is known to feed on fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, making them a common sight along the island’s rocky shores.
The Lesser Black-backed Gull is another common species found on the island. They are characterized by their gray back, white head and underparts, and black wingtips. These gulls are known to feed on a wide range of food items, including fish, crustaceans, and insects, and can often be seen scavenging along the shoreline.
The Cape Verde Warbler is a species of bird that is unique to the island. This small bird species is found in the island’s arid and semi-arid habitats, and is characterized by its yellow-green plumage. The Cape Verde Warbler is a relatively scarce species, and is considered to be endangered due to habitat loss and degradation.
The Spectacled Warbler is another bird species that is unique to the island. It is a small bird species that is found in the island’s arid and semi-arid habitats. It is characterized by its distinctive plumage, which features a white ring around its eyes. The Spectacled Warbler is considered to be vulnerable due to habitat loss and degradation.
In addition to these species, there are other bird species that can be found on Sal island such as the hirondelle de fenêtre, the hirondelle de mer, the sterna, the tern, and the seagull. These birds, along with the many migratory species that visit the island each year, make Sal a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
It is worth noting that most of the birds in Sal island and Cape Verde are migratory birds that pass through the island during the migration season. So, it’s important to check the right time to observe them. Furthermore, it’s important to mention that the preservation and conservation of these species are a priority for the local authorities, and the support of ecotourism is an important way to achieve this goal.
Marine life
Sal is also famous for its amazing marine life. Its crystal clear waters and geographical position in the Atlantic Ocean make this island an ideal place for the sighting of different species of marine animals.
The Sal Barrier Reef is one of the main attractions for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. The reef is made up of a diverse range of coral species, including soft and hard corals, which provide an ideal habitat for a variety of fish and invertebrates. Different species of tropical fish can be observed, such as clown fish, angel fish and butterfly fish, as well as sharks and manta rays.
The marine fauna of Sal also includes several species of sea turtles, including the green turtle and the loggerhead turtle. Sea turtles are protected and live in these waters, and during their nesting season, from July to September, they can be seen emerging from the sea to lay their eggs on the beach.
Furthermore, the waters around the island of Sal are an ideal habitat for whales and dolphins. There are several species of whales that can be seen in these waters such as blue whales, gray whales and right whales. Bottlenose dolphins are often spotted in large groups and can be seen leaping out of the water in a breathtaking display.
Another marine attraction of Sal are the manta rays. These gigantic invertebrates can be seen swimming in the deep waters around the island and are a major attraction for diving enthusiasts.
Finally, the marine fauna of Sal also includes several species of sharks, such as the hammerhead shark and the tiger shark. While these animals can be intimidating, they are generally peaceful and pose no threat to humans.
In general, the marine fauna of Sal is one of the main attractions for diving, snorkelling and marine animal watching enthusiasts. With a wide range of unique and fascinating species, this island offers an unforgettable experience for all those who love marine animals and nature.
