Animal Welfare

Animal Welfare in Mauritius

Our beautiful island is home to a variety of endemic (native) species of mammals, reptiles and birds, many of which are to be found solely on Mauritius, as well as wildlife from elsewhere in the world that have made Mauritius their home.

From dolphins and fruit bats, to geckoes and parakeets, the fauna in Mauritius is as varied and fascinating as its flora, and as stunning as the natural environment on the island.

Native species and animal and bird visitors

More than 100 different bird species have been found in Mauritius, including the endemic Mauritius kestrel, Mauritius parakeet and pink pigeon which all came close to extinction, but are now increasing in numbers, thanks to the conservation work on the island.

Conservation is crucial in protecting the wildlife found in today’s Mauritius, home of the sadly-extinct dodo. The National Parks and Conservation Services (NPCs) and other NGOs including the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation (MWF) are all working together with the aim of protecting animals and preserving our unique wildlife and ecosystem.

Animal Exports

The Mauritian authorities oversee the breeding of monkeys in carefully controlled conditions to help in the fight against some of the world’s most deadly diseases.

Governments all over the world licence the use of these monkeys to conduct scientific research into effective treatment for cancer, Covid-19, HIV/AIDS, and many other potentially fatal illnesses.

Stray dogs

Sadly, there is a significant stray dog population on the island which needs to be tackled. The Mauritian authorities have partnered with an accredited European animal shelter to undertake a wide-ranging sterilisation programme for stray dogs in Mauritius to humanely limit their numbers.

At the same time, hotels and resorts on the island’s west coast have joined a programme designed to ensure that stray dogs are provided with food and water at all times.