Maldives Wildlife

Maldives Wildlife

What animals will I see in the Maldives?

The most obvious answer is the incredible variety of fish and marine life, but did you know there’s plenty to spot on land as well?

The Maldives is home to a fascinating range of wildlife, and most of it is completely safe. Here’s a look at some creatures you might be curious or concerned about, along with a few surprises you may not expect to encounter.

Fish

Snorkelling with the fish in the Maldives is a must-do experience for anyone visiting this tropical paradise. The vibrant, colourful fish are easily visible in the crystal-clear waters of the reef, and swimming out to the house reef drop-off reveals an even more breath-taking sight with hundreds of fish and larger marine animals.

The drop-off marks the edge of the reef where the water suddenly plunges into deeper depths, creating a spectacular underwater view. While most fish in the Maldives are harmless, those who spend extended time scuba diving should remain aware of a few species to approach with caution.

Venomous fish are among the most dangerous animals in the Maldives. Stingrays, Stonefish and Lionfish may attack if provoked. Barracudas are overly curious and may swim quite close to you but will usually leave you alone. If bitten then it will not be life threatening, but still pay a visit to the resort doctor. Similarly, Moray eels and Titan Triggerfish can bite but are not venomous.

Sharks

When thinking about swimming in the ocean, sharks might be one of the first animals that come to mind. Rest assured, there are no great white sharks in the Maldives!

The sharks found in Maldivian waters are primarily non-aggressive and generally uninterested in humans. They don’t see people as a threat and will often swim away or remain indifferent to your presence. With an abundance of natural food sources and their excellent sense of smell paired with poor eyesight, they follow the fish, not the tourists. However, as with any wildlife, it’s important to avoid touching or provoking them, as they do have teeth and could react defensively, much like a startled pet.

It is essential to avoid resorts that engage in feeding sharks. This illegal and harmful practice disrupts their natural behaviour, making them associate humans with food, which increases the risk of aggressive encounters and harms the delicate marine ecosystem.

Here’s a list of the most common sharks found in the Maldives and some fascinating facts about them.

• Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus). Depth 0-140m. Size 1500cm. Known locally as "Falhu'miyaru".

Whale sharks, named for their immense size (though they are neither whales nor true sharks), are among the most exciting marine animals to encounter in the Maldives while snorkelling or diving. Known for their gentle nature, these magnificent creatures are a highlight for many tourists visiting areas like the South Ari Atoll or Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll. As the largest known fish species, whale sharks can live up to 130 years. Despite their massive size and wide mouths, they pose no threat to humans, as they are filter feeders that primarily consume plankton and small fish, making them safe to swim alongside.

• Black Tip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) Depth 0-75m. Size 160cm. Known locally as "Falhu'miyaru".

The Blacktip Reef Shark is the most commonly spotted shark in the Maldives, easily recognisable by the distinctive black tips on its fins. Preferring shallow waters, these sharks are often seen in house reefs, making them a familiar sight for snorkellers and divers. Their diet consists of small bony fish, cephalopods, crustaceans, and occasionally sea snakes and seabirds. Known for their timid nature, Blacktip Reef Sharks typically avoid humans and are considered safe to swim with, only biting if provoked or attacked.

• White Tip Reef Sharks (Triaenodon obesus). Depth 8-40m. Average size 160cm. Known locally as "Olhufathi'miyaru".

Another commonly seen shark in the Maldives is the Whitetip Reef Shark, easily distinguishable by the white tips on its fins, in contrast to the black tips of the Blacktip Reef Shark. Unlike their counterparts, Whitetip Reef Sharks tend to swim at deeper levels, making them slightly harder to spot for snorkellers. Known for being more fearless and curious, they may approach snorkellers and divers more closely. Despite this, they are considered safe to swim with and pose no threat to humans.

• Grey Reef Shark (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos). Depth 0-60m. Average size 188cm. Known locally as "Vahboa Miyaru".

The Grey Reef Shark is another common reef shark frequently spotted in the Maldives. These fast-swimming, social sharks are often found in groups and prefer depths of less than 60 metres, though they can dive much deeper. When snorkelling, they are typically seen near the drop-off at the outer edge of the reef. While their appearance might seem intimidating, Grey Reef Sharks are generally harmless and safe to swim with, showing little interest in humans. However, they can become more aggressive during feeding, so it’s best to steer clear of any areas where feeding activity is observed.

• Tawny Nurse sharks (Nebrius ferrugineus). Depth 0-70m. Size up to 320cm. Known locally as "Nidhan miyaru".

The Tawny Nurse Shark is known for its docile nature, and divers can often approach and swim alongside them without incident. As the second least dangerous shark in the Maldives, they are generally harmless. Being nocturnal hunters, they are typically less visible during the day; however, their excellent memory allows them to return to specific spots if they associate those areas with a reliable food source.

Unfortunately, this behaviour has been exploited in the Maldives, with some resorts, guesthouses and snorkelling excursions engaging in "fish feeding" for tourist entertainment or profit. This illegal practice alters the sharks’ natural behaviour, making them more aggressive as they associate humans with food.

Nearly all recent shark incidents in the Maldives have involved sharks that were fed by humans, often nurse sharks. It is strongly advised to avoid swimming with these sharks on snorkelling excursions or in areas where they have been fed by resorts or guesthouses.

If you happen to encounter a Nurse Shark while snorkelling in its natural environment, it will likely maintain its usual calm demeanour, so there’s no need to panic. Their diet consists of corals, sea urchins, crabs, lobsters, squid, octopus, small fish, and occasionally sea snakes.

Check out this list for resorts still engaging in shark and fish feeding.

• Scalloped Hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini). Depth 0-275m. Average size 300 cm. Known locally as "Kaaligan'du miyaru"

Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks are often found in large groups and are typically seen in specific locations around the Maldives. These include the Vaavu Atoll, Rasdhoo Atoll (in the northern part of the North Ari Atoll), Kuredu Island in the Lhaviyani Atoll, Fuvahmulah Island in the Gnaviyani Atoll, and a few other key spots. Their diet mainly consists of sardines, mackerel, herring, and occasionally squid and octopus, though larger specimens have been known to prey on smaller sharks like the Blacktip Reef Shark. Despite their size and appearance, Scalloped Hammerheads are not considered dangerous and are rarely aggressive toward humans.

• Zebra sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum). Depth 0-62m. Average size 235cm. Known locally as "Faana miyaru".

The endangered Zebra Shark, sometimes referred to as Leopard Sharks in the Maldives, is typically solitary and nocturnal, making it less likely to be spotted during the day. These sharks hunt at night, preying on small bony fish, crabs, lobsters, mollusks, and occasionally sea snakes. Known for their docile and slow-moving nature, Zebra Sharks pose no threat to humans and are considered safe to encounter.

Dolphins

• Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris). Depth 0-600m. Size up to 235cm. Known locally as "Koamas".

Dolphins are a delight to watch as they playfully leap through the ocean, and in the Maldives, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot them. Nearly every resort offers a "Dolphin Cruise" excursion, providing a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them from your resort’s beach! Dolphins are most active early in the morning or late in the day, usually staying in deeper waters. While they can be seen year-round, they tend to be less active during bad weather, so planning your trip during the dry season is ideal if seeing dolphins is a priority for you.

Turtles

The Maldives is home to several species of sea turtles, with the Hawksbill Sea Turtle and the Green Sea Turtle being the most commonly spotted. Many resorts offer snorkelling excursions specifically designed to give guests the chance to encounter these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

• Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata). Known locally as "Kahanbu".

Hawksbill Sea Turtles are a critically endangered species commonly seen around coral reefs in the Maldives, particularly in the North Malé Atoll and the Ari Atoll. Smaller than Green Sea Turtles, Hawksbills are easily recognisable by their beautifully patterned shells and sharp, pointed beaks. These turtles feed primarily on sponges, helping to maintain the balance of the reef ecosystem. While they may approach divers and snorkellers out of curiosity, it is essential to respect their space by avoiding touching, chasing, or startling them, ensuring they can surface freely for air. Encounters with Hawksbill Turtles are a highlight of any underwater exploration in the Maldives.

• Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas). Known locally as "Velaa".

Green Sea Turtles, one of the largest species of sea turtles, can grow up to 1 metre in length and live for up to 80 years in the wild. They are frequently found in the shallow lagoons and seagrass beds of the Maldives, with areas like the Lhaviyani Atoll and Baa Atoll offering excellent opportunities to spot them. Green Sea Turtles are herbivores, feeding primarily on seagrass and algae, and their grazing helps maintain the health of marine ecosystems. These gentle giants are safe to swim with and often display a calm demeanour, making encounters a memorable experience for snorkellers and divers.

Rays

Rays are easily recognisable by their flattened bodies, large pectoral fins fused to their heads, and gill slits located on their undersides. The Maldives is home to several species of rays, but the most thrilling to see and swim with is undoubtedly the majestic Manta Ray.

• Manta Rays (Manta birostris). Wingspan up to 600cm. Known locally as "Madi"

Manta rays in the Maldives can reach an impressive wingspan of up to 5.5 metres! One of the best places to swim with them is Hanifaru Bay, a Marine Protected Area and UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve located in the Baa Atoll. Hanifaru Bay is renowned for its large gatherings of reef manta rays during the wet season, from May to November, although manta rays can be found year-round in the Maldives. The Ari Atoll is another excellent hotspot for encountering these graceful giants.

• Stingrays (Taeniura melanospilos). Size up to 120cm. Known locally as "naru'nagoo'madi"

Stingrays are another common type of ray you’re likely to encounter in the Maldives. As their name suggests, they can sting in self-defence, so it’s best to admire them from a safe distance. Similar to nurse sharks, stingrays have excellent memories and can recall feeding times and locations. While feeding them from the shore was once a common practice at resorts and guesthouses, it has since been made illegal to protect their natural behaviours and the marine ecosystem.

• Other rays

In the Maldives, you might also encounter other fascinating rays such as the Spotted Eagle Ray, Blue Spotted Ray, Spotted Torpedo Ray, Devil Ray, and Guitarfish.

Jellyfish

Jellyfish can be found in the Maldives, but most tourists are unlikely to encounter one. While many jellyfish are capable of stinging, the majority are relatively harmless. However, there have been occasional sightings of box jellyfish in the Lhaviyani Atoll. It’s important to familiarise yourself with your resort’s safety systems upon arrival, as they often have alerts for any dangerous marine animals spotted in the area. Wearing a rash vest or T-shirt while swimming or snorkelling is a good precaution, offering protection not only from potential jellyfish stings but also from the sun.

Coral

Did you know that coral, despite its plant-like appearance, is actually a living animal? The Maldives is home to around 3% of the world’s coral reefs, making it a vital part of the global marine ecosystem. Coral has a smooth and beautiful surface, but underneath, it is rough and rock-like, capable of causing painful wounds if stepped on. It’s crucial to never touch coral or remove washed-up pieces from the beach. Some species of coral can also sting and cause rashes, so if you suspect you’ve been stung, it’s best to visit your resort clinic for treatment.

Sadly, approximately 60% of the coral in the Maldives is bleached due to environmental changes, such as rising sea temperatures and water levels. Coral bleaching occurs when the coral expels the algae living within its tissues, turning it white. Since these algae provide up to 80% of the coral's nutrients, bleached coral, though not dead, is starving. Recovery is possible but can take many years under stable and favourable conditions.

Wildlife on the land

The Maldives is home to fascinating wildlife not only in the ocean but also on land. Common creatures to spot include crabs, hermit crabs, fruit bats, geckos, water hens, and herons. Fortunately, there are no dangerous land animals in the Maldives, making it a safe place to explore its natural beauty.

Crabs

• Ghost Crabs (Ocypodinae). The local name for crab is "kakuni".

Early in the morning, you might notice unusual tracks on the beaches or pathways, resembling bike tyre marks crisscrossing in all directions. These are the tracks of ghost crabs (and sometimes hermit crabs), which emerge at night to feed when the islands are quiet. Ghost crabs are common across resort islands, and while you might spot a few during the day, they are incredibly quick and will scurry away at the first sign of movement.

• Rock Crabs (Cancer irroratus). The local name for crab is "kakuni".

Rock crabs are a common sight along the rocky shores and breakwaters of the Maldives, where they play an important role in the coastal ecosystem. These agile creatures are well-adapted to their environment, using their strong legs to cling to rocks and crevices even in crashing waves. In the Maldives, rock crabs are often spotted scurrying along the shoreline, especially during low tide. While they may be shy and quick to retreat if approached, their presence adds to the unique biodiversity of the islands.

• Hermit Crabs (Paguroidea). Known locally as "baraveli"

Hermit crabs are a common sight across the Maldives, both in and out of the water. These fascinating creatures have soft bodies and rely on empty shells for protection, so it’s important to be cautious when picking up shells from the beach, as one might already be occupied by a hermit crab. While they are harmless, they can pinch your fingers if handled. As they grow, hermit crabs will search for larger empty shells along the beach to serve as their new home.

Fruit Bats

• Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus gigantus). Known locally as "Vaalu".

Also known as the Indian Flying Fox, fruit bats are a common sight across Maldivian resorts. With their large wings and dark fur, they are among the largest bats in the world. You can often spot them at dusk, gracefully gliding from tree to tree in search of food, including fruit, young coconuts, Indian almonds, or nectar from flowers. During the day, they can be seen hanging upside down in trees, resting until it’s time to forage again.

Geckos & Lizards

• House Geckos (Hermidactylus frenatus). Known locally as "Hoanu".

Geckos are a common sight in many resorts, especially around lights in the early evening and nighttime. You might spot them on the walls outside your beach villa, darting across pathways, or even in open-air bathrooms. These small, fascinating reptiles have slender bodies and sticky toe pads, allowing them to effortlessly climb walls. Geckos are nocturnal and play a helpful role by eating flies and mosquitoes, contributing to the resorts' (hopefully) bug-free environment. They’re especially exciting for children to spot, and did you know their skin can change colour to blend seamlessly into their surroundings?

• Oriental Garden Lizard (Calotes versicolor). Known locally as "Bondu".

The Oriental Garden Lizard is a strikingly colourful reptile often seen basking in the Maldivian sun, its hues shifting like magic to blend into its surroundings. Equipped with a long tail and keen eyes, this agile lizard is a skilled hunter of tiny insects, playing an essential role in maintaining the ecosystem. Its ability to adapt and change its colours not only provides camouflage from predators but also adds to its charm, making it a fascinating creature to observe. Whether perched on a tree trunk or darting through a garden, the Oriental Garden Lizard is a vibrant presence in the natural landscape of the Maldives.

Birds of the Maldives

• White-Breasted Waterhen (Amaurornis phoenicurus). Known locally as "Kanbili"

The White-breasted Waterhen, often affectionately called the "resort chicken," is the national bird of the Maldives and a protected species found abundantly across the islands. Their loud, repetitive croaking calls often give them away before you spot them scurrying across pathways. While they are capable of flying, they are usually seen at ground level, exploring lush vegetation in search of insects and plants to eat. With striking black and white feathers and bright red eyes, these birds are a distinctive sight. During their breeding season, typically from June to October, they nest in the undergrowth, and their chicks—adorable black balls of fluff—are often quite tame and a delight to encounter.

• Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus). Known locally as "Kaalhu Koveli" - Male & "Din Din Koveli" - Female.

Asian Koels are shy birds but are known for their loud and distinctive calls, particularly during the breeding season from March to August. The males, with their glossy blue-black feathers and red eyes, produce a “Koo-el” or “uwu uwu uwu” sound, while the females, speckled brown and white, emit a sharp “Kik-kik-kik” call. Though they often reside on agricultural islands, they can also be spotted across resort areas. Typically more heard than seen, the Asian Koel adopts a characteristic posture when at ease—its long tail held downward, back hunched, and head and bill slightly raised. As a protected species in the Maldives, it adds a unique charm to the islands' wildlife.

• Grey Heron (Ardea Cinerea). Known locally as "Maakana"

The Maldives is home to several species of herons and bitterns, with many resorts hosting one or two as part of their natural environment. Standing up to 1 metre tall, the Grey Heron is a skilled hunter, feeding on fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and insects, which it catches in shallow water using its long, sharp bill. With keen eyesight, it stands motionless like a statue, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to strike, earning its title as a master fisherman of the bird world. Known for its slow, graceful flight and distinctive S-shaped retracted neck, the Grey Heron is a protected species in the Maldives, adding elegance to the islands' wildlife.

• Black-Napped Tern (Sterna Sumatrana). Known locally as "Kiru Dhooni".

Black-Naped Terns are elegant seabirds, easily recognised by their sleek white feathers and the striking black cap that adorns their heads. These agile birds are often seen gliding effortlessly over the turquoise waters of the Maldives, searching for food or resting on sandbanks. Every year, they undertake an extraordinary journey spanning thousands of kilometres to find the ideal nesting grounds, often favouring remote islands and undisturbed coastal areas. Their dedication to finding the perfect spot highlights the vital role these pristine environments play in their lifecycle, making them a fascinating species to observe in the wild.

• Common Sandpiper (Actitis Hypoleucos). Known locally as "Findhana".

The Common Sandpiper is a small, graceful bird often spotted along the shorelines and wetlands of the Maldives. Recognisable by its brown upperparts, white underbelly, and distinctive bobbing motion as it forages, this bird is a seasonal visitor during migration periods. Feeding on small invertebrates and crustaceans, the Common Sandpiper plays an important role in the coastal ecosystem. It is a protected species in the Maldives, reflecting the country's commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to admire these birds from a distance, ensuring their habitats remain undisturbed.

Insects

• Mosquitos (Culicidae). Known locally as "Madiri".

While there are no dangerous insects in the Maldives, mosquitoes can occasionally be a nuisance on some islands. Resorts may provide sleeping nets or repellents, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own just in case. It’s worth contacting your resort before your trip to check if additional precautions are necessary. Most resorts are regularly sprayed and fogged to control insects, which helps minimise their presence but may also deter some other types of wildlife.

• Carpenter Bees (Xylocopa Latipes). Known locally as "Maaburu".

Carpenter bees are a common sight in the Maldives, known for their large size and shiny black bodies. These solitary bees play a crucial role in pollinating tropical flowers but are harmless to humans, despite their intimidating appearance.

Rodents

• Etruscan Shrew (Suncus Etruscus). Known locally as "Hikandhi".

The Etruscan Shrew, one of the smallest mammals in the world, can occasionally be found on the islands of the Maldives. Weighing less than 2 grams, this tiny creature is known for its rapid metabolism and high energy levels, requiring it to eat nearly twice its body weight in food each day. With a pointed snout, small beady eyes, and a long tail, the Etruscan Shrew is well-adapted to hunting insects and small invertebrates. Despite its size, it is a fierce predator, using its sharp senses to detect prey. These shrews are rarely seen as they are quick and often hidden within the dense undergrowth, adding to the fascinating biodiversity of the Maldives.

Spiders

Spiders in the Maldives are generally harmless and play a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. Most species are small and non-aggressive, often weaving delicate webs in trees, gardens, or near light sources that attract insects. However, they are rarely seen due to the abundance of geckos, garden lizards, and waterhens, which naturally keep spider populations minimal. One of the more noticeable species is the orb-weaver spider, known for its intricate web patterns and bright colouration. While spiders may occasionally appear in open-air bathrooms or villas, they pose no threat to humans and are far more interested in their insect prey, showcasing the natural balance of the Maldivian environment.

Snakes

• Land dwelling snakes

There are two species of non-venomous land-dwelling snakes in the Maldives. Sightings of these are quite rare in resorts.

• Sea Snakes

The Maldives is home to a few sea snakes, all of which are venomous, but these are also rare. If you are going to come across one, it will most likely be whilst scuba diving. Sea snakes in the Maldives may swim alongside you but they are shy creatures and shouldn’t hurt you.

If a snake washes up on the shore, do not approach it, even if it is dead. Instead, tell a member of staff.