The Sanctuary is an artificial wetland site (0.029 square kilometers) resulting from reclamation work done on the east coast of Mahé in 1986. It is situated between the Roche Caiman housing estate and the National Sports Complex and is the only urban wetland reserve in Seychelles.

Plans to turn the site into a bird sanctuary began in 1987 and management of the site was given to a local NGO, the Nature Protection Trust of Seychelles (NPTS), in 1992. In 2002, the Government of Seychelles handed over the management of the sanctuary to Nature Seychelles, another local NGO, experienced in habitat and environmental conservation and the Wildlife Clubs of Seychelles.

The wetland is almost entirely fresh water. It contains areas of permanent deep water as well as temporary shallow water habitats. Many species of plants, birds, insects, amphibians, reptiles and other animals survive in and rely on the various habitat found within the sanctuary. It has attracted waders such as Green Shanks, Terek Sandpipers, Wimbrels, Yellow Bitterns, Black Crown Night Heron and Green Back Night Herons which have become regulars at the wetland.

The Roche Caiman Sanctuary provides an exciting focus for national conservation education and research facilities that will enable the public to explore and better understand the dynamics of a freshwater ecosystem.

The Sanctuary also boasts an information kiosk and a bird hide for the twin purpose of providing information and a good view of the wetlands faunal and floral spectacles.

Address : PO Box 1310, Victoria, Mahé

Tel : +248 4 60 11 00 / 4 60 11 20

Fax : +248 4 60 11 02

Email : nature@seychelles.net

Website : www.natureseychelles.org