Bird Island, perched on the edge of the Seychelles continental shelf is the most northerly island of the Seychelles Archipelago and is situated 60 miles from the main island of Mahé. A 30 minute flight from Mahé by light aircraft gives the first stunning impressions of this tiny 170 acre coral cay. Shades of turquoise and blue warm Indian Ocean which define the reef and continental shelf contrast vividly with the 5km of soft, white sand and tropical green island vegetation. The east and south sides are surrounded by the barrier reef, which is home to many varieties of colourful tropical fish, providing excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. The island is best known for the nesting colony of two million Sooty Terns, which find refuge here between May and October. Populations of Fair and Noddy terns, Ground Doves, Mynahs, Crested Terns and Plovers are also found here. Esmeralda, a giant tortoise reputed to be 150 years old, is another famed attraction Bird Island offers a magical holiday experience. Endless stretches of fine white coral sand beaches give a true 'castaway' feeling. The emphasis is very much on relaxation and informality. It is a true retreat from today's busy world. In 1994 Bird Island was runner up in the British Airways "Tourism for Tomorrow Award". Currently the island is Seychelles' only member of Green Globe, an international Ecotourism organization that promotes active conservation participation and sustainable development within the tourism industry. <b>Seasons</b> Seychelles has a pleasant year-round climate with the highest average monthly temperature seldom going above 32 degrees C and the lowest seldom below 27 degrees C. The cool, dry south east trade winds blow from May to September and the wetter, north west trades from December to March. December and January are usually the wettest months with around 300mm of rain being recorded on average.