Cook Islands
Nature Guide

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The Cook Islands has only a few species of birds although of these, there are six unique species found nowhere else in the world. These include the very rare Kakerori found only in the high forests on the south coast of Rarotonga and the low forests on Atiu. The Takitumu Conservation Reserve on Rarotonga offers guided nature walks twice a week (bookings essential). However, spotting the Kakerori can be difficult. It is far easier to spot on Atiu where it was recently introduced for breeding as the canopy here is much lower and less dense. The Kakerori is a territorial bird and is quite inquisitive. Birdman George offers excellent bird tours on Atiu. A rare species of swiftlet (Kopeka) also lives in the deep caves of Atiu. The tiny island of Takutea, 9 miles north-west of Atiu, is a designated wildlife sanctuary and breeding ground for thousands of red-tailed tropic birds and red-footed boobies as well as terns, noddies and frigate birds. Government permission is usually required to visit the island but it's possible to visit with local Atiuans who make irregular trips for copra cutting and egg gathering. Other important breeding grounds for sea birds include Suwarrow and Palmerston.

... Accommodation on Atiu

bush track

sea heron

humpback whale

muritapua

The Cook Islands has a wealth of colourful flowers and most gardens are decorated with them. The Tiare Flower Festival in Nov-Dec is a good time to visit as this is the time most flowers make their colourful display. The Maire Nui Botanical Gardens on the south coast of Rarotonga is a good place to visit and learn about the local flora. Many plants and flowers have medicinal uses, most notably the Noni plant whose roots and leaves are used for the cure of many ailments. Noni juice is now being mass cultivated on Rarotonga and its juice exported. Pa's nature walks point out many of these medicinal plants.

... Rarotonga Tour Companies


Marine life is prolific off the reefs and humpback whales visit Rarotonga, Atiu and Mangaia between June and September.

... more on Whale Watching


There are few native land animals throughout the Cook Islands. Pigs, goats and dogs are common pets, and mosquitoes thrive in the swampy regions of Rarotonga. There are no poisonous snakes or spiders.



Cook Islands Eco Resort Listings

Cook Islands Tour Companies

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