Fiji is home to a diverse range of wildlife, especially considering its island geography. While it doesn’t have large mammals or predators, it features a unique blend of birds, reptiles, insects, and marine animals, many of which are endemic (found only in Fiji).
Birds (Avian Wildlife)
Fiji has around 160 bird species, with over 30 endemic species.
- Collared Lory – Fiji’s national bird; colorful and common.
- Red-throated Lorikeet – Critically endangered.
- Fiji Goshawk – A small, agile hawk.
- Silktail – A unique bird found only in Vanua Levu.
- Orange Dove – Known for its bright orange plumage, found on some islands.
- Fiji Parrotfinch – Small, green finch with a red head.
Reptiles
- Fiji Banded Iguana – Endangered and native to the islands.
- Fiji Crested Iguana – Critically endangered, found only on a few islands.
- Pacific Boa (Candoia bibroni) – Non-venomous and nocturnal.
- Skinks and Geckos – Widely found across Fiji.
Marine Wildlife (Very Rich)
Fiji is called the “Soft Coral Capital of the World” and has over 1,200 species of fish and hundreds of coral species.
- Clownfish, Angelfish, Parrotfish
- Sea Turtles – Green and hawksbill turtles.
- Manta Rays
- Sharks – Including reef sharks, tiger sharks, and bull sharks.
- Giant Clams
- Sea Cucumbers and Starfish
Insects & Arachnids
- Butterflies – Including the Fijian swallowtail.
- Dragonflies, Beetles, and Moths
- Mosquitoes – Common, especially in rainy season.
- Spiders – Mostly harmless species.
Mammals
Fiji has very few native land mammals, mostly bats.
- Fijian Monkey-faced Bat – Endemic and critically endangered.
- Fijian Blossom Bat – Pollinates fruit and flowers.
Notable Conservation Areas
- Kadavu Island – Home to many rare birds.
- Taveuni Island – Known for iguanas and lush forest wildlife.
- Vatu-i-Ra and the Great Sea Reef – Important marine biodiversity zones.
