As Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island marks its first anniversary, the luxury resort celebrates more than just hospitality milestones. The resort’s dedication to preserving its pristine natural surroundings has yielded remarkable results across multiple conservation initiatives, from protecting endangered marine life to safeguarding native flora and fauna.
Hawksbill Turtle Nesting Success
This season has brought promising news for hawksbill turtles, with an increased number of this endangered species returning to the shores of Platte Island to nest, compared to last year. This significant rise in nesting activity with over 300 turtle nests observed serves as a testament to the resort’s commitment to balancing sustainable development with effective conservation practices, ensuring that both the local ecosystem and wildlife continue to thrive.
Lighting Adjustments for Hatchling Safety
A key initiative aimed at enhancing the safety of hatchling turtles has been the strategy to dim lighting in the villas and surrounding garden areas. Early observations suggest that this change is yielding positive results, with fewer hatchlings being disoriented by artificial lights. As a result, more hatchlings are able to find their way to the sea safely, a crucial factor for their survival.
Bird Sightings and New Species
In the realm of avian conservation, the team has documented several exciting new bird species this season. A gray heron family has been spotted at Shark Point Beach, amur falcon has been spotted in the sky above the island, the red-bull tropicbird laid one egg in the nesting season and the chick survived. These discoveries underscore the importance of ongoing research efforts, which continue to shed light on the diverse and ever-evolving bird population in the region.
Coconut Tree Species Research
The botanical research is also progressing, especially concerning the former coconut plantation on the island. The Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island team has been working to identify and classify the different species of coconut trees growing in the area. This research is important for understanding the role these trees play in the island’s ecosystem as this work is part of a broader effort to protect and preserve the island’s natural and historical environment.
Invasive Species Management
The management of invasive species remains a key focus of the resort’s conservation efforts. Invasive plants and predators can significantly disrupt the delicate balance of local ecosystems, threatening native flora and fauna. Dedicated conservation teams continue to work tirelessly to monitor, control, and mitigate the impact of these species. Through targeted interventions, the resort aims to preserve the integrity of the island’s natural environment, ensuring that native species continue to thrive and maintain their critical role in the ecosystem. The team have observed the return of crab plovers who help control the crab population during the hatchling season.
