At 52 years, Cousin Island is one of the longest established marine protected area (MPA) in the world. Although the coral reefs surrounding the island have undergone dramatic changes recently because of coral bleaching, which led to a drastic reduction in live coral cover, the MPA still holds an abundance of marine treasures. From sea cucumbers to the Bumphead parrotfish, to Eagle rays, Napoleon wrasse, and Giant stingrays.

It seems like there's a skink underfoot wherever you walk on Cousin Island Special Reserve. You are always doing a bit of a dance to avoid crashing them because they are both numerous and curious; a little sidestep, a quick leap, and sometimes a terrific slide to keep from falling.

Nature Seychelles has received £60,000 for its “Building back Better in the Age of COVID” campaign. The funds are to be used to boost high-level science in Seychelles by contributing to the construction of a new research centre on Cousin Island Special Reserve. The Seychelles Warbler Research Group, a team of biologists from the European universities of East Anglia, Groningen, and Sheffield is donating the funds to help build the new facility.

Ian Stirling is the first to be inducted as a friend of Cousin Island Special Reserve. Ian was awarded the title by Nature Seychelles for his exemplary contribution to the island during these difficult times.