Palm-fringed silvery sands, turquoise seas, misty mountain peaks and coral reefs coupled with tropical sun, starry skies and delightful people, Seychelles is an idyllic escape for discerning travellers. With plants and animals historically linked to Africa, Madagascar and Asia, and marine life native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region, Seychelles is a haven for those interested in natural history. This guide gives fascinating coverage of the islands' biodiversity, from mangroves, turtles and birds to nature reserves and conservation projects. Seychelles' many secrets are also uncovered from coco de mer palm forests, picturesque La Digue and island bird sanctuaries to local markets and Creole cuisine.

'There's a vast amount of information here...A brief, well-described and fascinating history of the islands' explorers, pirates and settlers is an added bonus. There's also a fascinating introduction to the islands' extraordinary biodiversity, from birds and coral reefs to nature reserves and conservation projects.' Traveller

Lyn Mair, an expert on Indian Ocean ornithology and nature, has lectured on board cruise and expedition ships and has worked on environmental projects for World Heritage in the Seychelles. Lynnath Beckley is a marine scientist who writes papers for international journals and magazines and was a former editor of the South African Journal of Marine Science.