Animals in Spratly Islands

The Spratly Islands are are a series of reefs and islands located in the South China Sea. The islands are surrounded by coral and are part of three larger archipelagos. The islands are subject to regular monsoons. Though there is no indigenous human population, the islands are popular for fishing and home to several military bases. Unfortunately, illegal fishing techniques, oil spills and other anthropogenic intrusions have caused a decline in endemic species. Much of the biodiversity on these islands has not been formally studied by scientists.

The most prominent animal species on the islands are migratory sea birds. The streaked shearwater is known to rest on this island. At least two booby species also stop by the islands to rest and reproduce. The red-footed booby can be found throughout the islands. The red-footed booby is the smallest of the booby species. Presence of the brown booby has also been documented. The brown booby subsists on squid and various fish. Various other seabirds utilize the island for migratory purposes. The increased population of the area by military garrisons and fishermen may be driving some bird species away.

Two endangered species of sea turtles use the islands for hatching eggs. Green sea turtles have been seen throughout the islands. This turtle is a strong swimmer and similar to other sea turtles in its physical features. The hawksbill turtle, a critically endangered sea turtle, is also known to visit the islands. The hawksbill turtle is named for its unique beak. These turtles are protected throughout the islands. Nevertheless, they often die by being caught in fishing nets.