Cousin Island (Seychelles)

Cousin Island (Seychelles) is located approx 1,2 ml (2 km) west of Praslin Island. The isle is a nature reserve (protected Special Reserve) area managed by Nature Seychelles (nonprofit organization, BirdLife International partnership) and also identified as Important Bird Area. The small island covers a total area of 0,34 km2 (0,13 ml2) and has population under 10.

A plateau covered with natural woodland extends over most of Cousin Island, that is almost encircled by a sandy beach. Its southern coast is rocky and a 69-meter (226 ft) hill occupies the centre of Cousin’s southern half. There is an area of mangroves as well as 3 small, freshwater swamps. The marine reserve extends 400 m into the sea from the shore line.

Cousin Island is a former coconut plantation. Since 1968, BirdLife International owns the island. The young coconut trees were removed, allowing the native fauna to recover and the island's original vegetation to regenerate. In 1975 the isle was declared Special Reserve. It is accessible only by sea (from Praslin or Cousine Island). Cousin Island is open to tourists Monday to Friday, and closed at weekends and on holidays.

The island is popular as a "site for good practice in environmental management". It has been the focus of a lot of case studies and is used by universities and international research organisations as a research base. Cousin Island is a Demonstration Site for ICRAN (International Coral Reef Action Network). Its ecotourism program has won prizes including Tourism for Tomorrow award and Condé Nast ecotourism award. 

Cousin Island cruise terminal