Natural Wonders of Martinique: Biodiversity of Martinique

If you love nature and the outdoors, you'll be amazed by what awaits you in Martinique. The island's wide variety of topography and microclimates is home to incredible biodiversity.

Fauna of Martinique

In Martinique, amazing creatures live in every corner of land and sea. One of them, for which the island is especially famous, is the hummingbird.

This symbol of grace, dexterity and grace is always a magical sight. Just admire the hummingbird's aerial ballet among tropical flowers. In fact, did you know that Martinique is home to over 200 bird species?

Waters and turtles, fish, dolphins and whales

Sea turtles are stars local underwater world. Green, hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles inhabit the waters of Martinique, and these majestic sea wanderers hold a special place in our hearts. Today, these creatures are critically endangered and their protection is a priority.

Martinique's seabed is teeming with unexpected natural treasures. The coral reefs hide a variety of fish of different shapes and colors, as well as unusual shellfish and starfish.

Farther offshore, dolphins and whales also grace visitors with their presence, swimming into the warm and calm waters of Martinique to breed and give birth.

From land and marine mammals to insects, fish, amphibians and birds, Martinique is a true sanctuary, with several hundred species of animals living in its waters.

Lesser Antillean iguana

Although most of the animals commonly found in Martinique have been introduced by humans over the centuries, several endemic species can still be seen. However, their presence on the island is fragile and limited to only certain areas, such as the Lesser Antillean iguana (also known as Iguana delicatissima) that you can see on Chancel Island.

Matutu Falez

Matutu falez, a tarantula with a bluish sheen that can reach a size of up to 20 cm (yes, 20 cm!) is another endemic species that is now in danger of extinction. The rainforests in the north of the island are where you are most likely to see it. Last but not least, there is Trigonocephalus or Bothrops lanceolatus, a venomous snake with a distinctive triangular head.

But those who are afraid of spiders and snakes need not worry - both Matoutou falaise and Trigonocephalus - secretive species that seek peace more than anything else.

Maniku

If you are driving, be careful: animals can jump out of nowhere, like our famous the maniku, a small marsupial about the size of a cat, or the mongoose, which, although cute, is a formidable predator responsible for the extinction of many endemic birds.

Plant life in Martinique

Each Martinique landscape is a unique, stunning gift from nature. In fact, its other name is Madinina, which means “island of flowers.” As you drive along roads paved with coconut palms, sugar cane fields and banana trees, you will be amazed by the huge variety of vegetation that abounds in Martinique.

For starters, there are tropical flowers - such as alpinia, paradise birds, balisier and torch ginger - which create a fabulous spectacle with their incredible shapes and rainbow of colors. Let's not forget the queen of queens, the hibiscus, which is also one of the hummingbirds' favorite flowers.

From majestic palm trees to impressive fruit trees like mango or avocado, we also have many wonderful tree species , which you can discover, including some oddly shaped ones like the strangler ficus and the kapok tree. One of the most impressive is the famous adobe or rain tree, which will amaze you with its 2.5 meter wide trunk and the feeling of peace you will experience when standing under it.

Rainforest

In the north of the island, take a trip to the most the heart of the rainforest.

This cool, damp environment with its softly murmuring rivers offers rich vegetation for you to discover, such as vines over 40 meters high, impressive tree ferns, strange parasitic plants growing on other plants, and many other wonders of nature.

A trip to the rainforest promises to be an exciting experience that will stimulate all your senses.

 Mangrove forests

Another natural environment of amazing beauty is the mangrove forest. This unique and important ecosystem supports a huge variety of marine and terrestrial species. Take a boat or kayak to explore its winding channels and discover incredible mangrove trees whose tangled roots are submerged in salt water.

The mangrove tree is essential to the conservation of various species. Fish lay their eggs in its intertwined roots, where they are protected from predators. So this is not only a nursery, but also a real refuge. You can also see a variety of birds here, as well as hermit crabs and adorable fiddler crabs.

Protected natural spaces

Local natural heritage needs to be protected. As a Caribbean island, Martinique is one of the world's 36 biodiversity hotspots. In other words, its biodiversity is recognized as one of the richest on the planet, as well as one of the most endangered.

The people of Martinique are aware of this vulnerability and attach great importance to preserving their natural heritage with many protected natural areas.

The sites included in the Regional Natural Park of Martinique and the natural reserves of the island (Caravelle peninsula in the north and Sainte-Anne in the south) play a key role in the conservation of localecosystems, public awareness and scientific research.

From beaches, forests and mangroves to the underwater world, this island as a whole must be conserved if we are to ensure the long-term survival of local biodiversity.

Protecting the Martinique ecosystem

Together let's save the fragile balance of the island. This is no small matter, as many species of animals and plants are now endangered in Martinique.

When it comes to preserving biodiversity, the island faces many challenges such as global warming, pollution, waste management and raising awareness of environmental conservation.

Martinique is strongly involved in conservation work and has a number of environmental projects underway. More and more of our various tour operators are also committed to an environmentally responsible, eco-friendly approach to offer you a green and authentic experience on our island.

During your stay, please act responsibly by not wasting water in vain, turn off the air conditioner when leaving your home, do not leave garbage in nature, buy local products and follow the rules in natural areas.

Together let's preserve the beauty of our island reserve.