Nature Reserves on Madeira

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Madeira Nature Reserves
Madeira has many exotic flora and fauna. The arrival of humans has taken a toll on certain areas of the island as well as different species of plants and animals. In the last half century, locals, as well as other lovers of the islands, began to realize that actions needed to be taken to protect these areas.

Madeira Island Nature Reserves currently cover over two thirds of the islands territory. Parts of the island have been named World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
SÃ£o LourenÃ§oRocha do NavioParcial do GarajauIlhas SelvagenIlhas Desertas
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  Ponta de SÃ£o LourenÃ§o became a protected reserve in 1982. This 9km (5.6 mi) long peninsula is located on the far east coast of Madeira and was converted to a reserve in order to save the local flora and fauna from harm. There are several species of endemic plants located on this peninsula.
  
  This area is also home to many species of birds. Sea lions can sometimes be scene lounging along the coast or playing in the waters. For those wanting to visit the area, it is accessible by boat on the south coast only as the north coast is quite rough and receives very high winds.
  
  In addition to all of the fantastic flora and fauna to be found on the peninsula, the area is also an important geological heritage site.
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  This area became a natural reserve in 1997. Due to illegal fishing with explosives, the coastal area was quickly being destroyed and marine animals were suffering. Locals realized that this destruction and deterioration was taking place and took action to get the area protected.
  
  This resort is located on the northern coast of the island and is one of the most scenic areas to be found. Boats can access the coastal area but fishing with nets and underwater fishing are not allowed.
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  The Garajau Nature Reserve is located on the south coast of Madeira and is the only marine reserve in all of Portugal. The area is protected due to its extremely rich biodiversity and crystal clear waters.
  
  This coastal area gained full protection in 1986 and is now of limits to fisherman and highly controlled for navigational activities. The Coast Guard patrols often to ensure the parks protection. Small boats are allowed to approach the beach and free diving in the area is magnificent and practiced often.
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  Ilhas Selvagens Islands, also known as the Savage Islands, lie about 290km (180mi) south of Madeira. The islands consist of two small groups of islands and are uninhabited except for a small number of park rangers surveying the flora and fauna.
  
  The Selvagens became a nature reserve in 1971; one of the first in Portugal. The island is a haven for many sea birds and has become known as an ornithological paradise.
  
  The plant life on the island is also very abundant and unique. This island has never had grazing animals living on its soil and has over 90 plant species, ten of which are endemic to the island.
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  The island is approximately 35km (22mi) southeast of Madeira and consists of three small islands. The three Ilhas Desertas; IlhÃ©u ChÃ£o, Deserta Grande and Bugio, happen to be one of the last refuges for the monk seal.
  
  Due to harsh conditions and lack of fresh water, these islands are deserted. The Ilhas Desertas Nature Reserve has been protected since the early 90's and became a reserve shorty after. Visitors need a permit to tour the islands.
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Madeira Nature Reserves

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