Exotic animals of Ayada Maldives
Our island is blessed with tropical wildlife, both on land and underwater. We have collected some of the most interesting species you will encounter during your stay at Ayada Maldives.
Reef sharks
Black tip reef shark and white tip reef shark are commonly found in lagoon and at the reef. Hammerheads and nurse shark are also found in the waters of Maldives. None of these are actually aggressive if you do not touch them.
Where to see them?
Anywhere in the shallow waters around Ayada Maldives, or every day 18:00 at our daily fish experience.
Birds
The most commonly seen sea birds are herons, cranes and seagulls. There are more than 12 species of herons, the most common being the grey heron (Ardea Cinerea Rectirostris) or Maakana in Dhivehi.
Where to see them?
You can very easily spot grey heron walking around the islands or standing motionless in shallow water hunting for small fishes.
Their favorite location is the rocky beach near Ocean Breeze, our fine dining restaurant at Ayada Maldives.
Turtles
Five of the seven species of sea turtles can be found in the Maldives, with the two most common being the Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), often sighted living on the reef.
Where to see them?
You can encounter sea turtles while snorkeling or diving in the shallow waters surrounding Ayada Maldives. Our water-sport team will be to happy to update you about their exact locations.
Fruit bats
You will see many of these harmless bats hanging from the trees, all around our jungle areas. Fruit bats mostly eat fruit juice and flower nectar. They chew the fruit, then spit out the seeds, peel, and pulp.
Where to see them?
Fruit bats can be spotted all around the island.Their distinct squeaking sound will sure draw your attention.
Garden lizards
The Oriental Garden Lizard is also known as the “Changeable Lizard”, due to its wide variation in coloration and ability to change colors significantly during the breeding season.
They appear to adapt well to humans and are thus not endangered.
Where to see them?
These lizards can be found sunbathing on in the middle of the pathways, hiding in the lush vegetation, or climbing on trees all around the island.
Stingrays
Not only stingrays, but eagle rays and further species can be seen frequently around the island of Ayada Maldives. These creatures are best to be observed from a reasonable distance.
Where to see them?
Stingrays and eagle rays can be frequently seen near the arrival jetty and close to Ile de Joie - our wine and cheese specialty bar.
Crabs
A large variety of crabs can be seen on our beaches and even in the inner island areas.
Where to see them?
Hermit crabs can found in the white sands almost anywhere around the island. Land crabs are commonly seen in the evening. or early morning around the pathways and garden areas.