While the Maldives is celebrated for its amazing diversity of marine life, due to its location far away from a large landmass and its small size the Maldives does not have an abundance of its own avifauna. Most birds found on the islands are Eurasian migratory birds and therefore are seasonal while some are typical of the region and a few are found among the vegetation and marshes of the various islands.
According to bird checklists around 165 varieties of birds inhabit the islands from time to time. Some rare and threatened varieties of birds that visit the islands intermittently include the Feruginous Duck, Jouanin’s Petrel, Spot Billed Pelican, Pallid Harrier, Black Tailed Godwit, the Lesser Kestrel and the Eurasian Curlew. The common Mynah and the House Sparrow that are visible on the larger islands are listed as introduced species. Among the commonest birds spied in the Maldives are the crow, the koel with its distinctive cry and the white breasted water hen found nesting under low bushes. While the large grey heron is also a common sight several other species of heron are also glimpsed from time to time. Two types of frigate birds are known to use the Maldives as their breeding grounds. Two species of noddies, several species of terns, the Audubon’s shearwater and the white tailed tropic bird are also to be found here during breeding time. Addu Atoll in the south of the Maldives is known as a nesting ground for the fairy tern.
For keen bird watchers the best way to see pelagic birds in the Maldives is to take a trip out to sea with fishermen who locate shoals of tuna by identifying concentrations of sea birds feeding on shrimp and small fish chased to the top by the big fish hunting below. Birding tours organized as part of the live aboard experience is also another wonderful way to view tropical pelagic birds and migrants from the palaearctic eco zone. The most rewarding time to view these birds may be during the spring and autumn migrations when a whole variety of birds can be spotted. Early mornings are also a good time to view birds as they are most active and noisy at this time. Due to its small size bird watchers in the Maldives may need to visit several locations to see a variety of avifauna.
For anyone thinking of pristine white beaches, sun, warm blue sea, gorgeous marine life, privacy and sublime accommodation then Cocoa Island Maldives is the place to be. Enjoy well appointed spacious contemporary villas and suites with wonderful ocean views at this Maldives luxury hotel as well as tasteful Asian fusion cuisine, rejuvenating holistic spa treatments and blissful days in total relaxation. Head to this exceptional Maldives resort for that much dreamed of vacation.
Umanga Kahandawaarachchi is a passionate travel writer who writes under the pen name, Maggie Tulliver. Her field of writing covers a wide array of content and articles related to travel and hospitality industry.
Located in a hidden stretch in the Eastern borders of the beautiful island of Sri Lanka, Passikudah is certainly a treat both on the surface and under. With shallow waters stretching several meters into the ocean, the Passikudah beach has come to be famously known as Natures very own shallow pool. Now the Eastern Sri Lanka is slowly blossoming with a whole new vigor that is making it on par or perhaps even better than the rest of the island.
For many the name Passikudah barely rings a bell and the reason is simple; for years this tiny little town was occupied by the rebellions. Destroyed and damaged, the many wonders of Passikudah that was once cherished by locals had become the forgotten treasure of the island. With the end of the internal conflict in the island, Sri Lanka blossomed with a whole new vigor and ardor. The many zones in the island that were neglected due to war became the primary focus of the government and private funders. Passikudah was one such town; known for its sparkling blue shallow ocean Passikudah is paradise for a long lazy splash and also quite famous for snorkeling. Of late diving has become a popular activity in this town. With perfect water, with a clear and a warm soothing temperature, the underwater world is not short of wonder in Passikudah. Schools of fish swim pass you and corals garland your way as you swim through the many wonders of the aquatic zone. Passikudah Sea is the underwater Eden in Sri Lanka that is quite interesting to explore if you are a good swimmer, you need not be a professional; the ocean in Passikudah is calm and ever so welcoming.
Choose centrally located 
Looking for an awesome, one of a kind adventure experience that will make your hair stand on end? Agroventures Adventure Park just outside Rotorua, New Zealand may just be able to satisfy this yearning! Billed as the country’s ‘most thrilling adventure playground’, five hair raising unique rides are guaranteed to give visitors the time of their lives.
The G force sensation of the Agrojet, a 450 HP Hamilton Jet Boat with a V-8 engine has been likened to the ride in a Formula I car at full throttle. Accelerating from 0 to 100 KPH in a trice while manoeuvring around seven islands on a specially designed water course and finishing the ride with a stomach churning 360 degree turn is an experience that is indescribable.
Freefall Xtreme is body flying where riders are borne on a high powered column of air and is the closest many will get to a zero gravity ride. Try twists, spins and rolls while air borne and feel like a super hero out to save the world!
With a city centre location, virtually on the banks of Lake Rotorua, Millennium Hotel Rotorua not only offers an excellent location but also features all the modern conveniences required of an international hotel. Enjoy the many facilities and amenities at this