10 Amazing Animal Islands

Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Like remnants from ancient times, there is an island tucked away from the civilized world, deep in the Indonesian archipelago which hosts animals that are considered living fossils. This island is home to the Komodo dragons, which are the world’s largest lizard. Komodo Dragons are massive creatures and can reach up to ten feet in length and weigh up to 300 pounds. You will find them nowhere else in the world! It is only possible to view these deadly prehistoric beasts under the guidance and protection of specially trained park rangers. The island has amazing flora and fauna which makes you feel like you’re in a movie, like Kong's Skull Island. Enter the land of legends when visiting Indonesia and experience the wonder of Komodo Island.

Snake Island, Brazil

Ilha da Queimada Grande, or better known as Snake Island, is only ninety miles from the city of Sao Paulo and is considered one of the world’s deadliest Islands. As the name gives away, the island is overrun with snakes. These are not just any common snake, but golden lance head vipers, said to be more venomous than any land based serpent. The island is only 100 acres, but is estimated to be home to more than 4,500 of the reptiles. This place is so dangerous that visiting the island has been banned by the Brazilian government, with exceptions made only for scientists and the Brazilian Navy who maintain the lighthouse. This is one island best avoided.

Pig Island, Bahamas

The Bahamas are a small group of island in the Caribbean and are famous for the stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. On Big Major Cay, a small uninhabited island you can experience something odd and unexpected. You will see pigs basking in the sand and swimming in the sea. No, you are not imagining things! It’s unclear as to how the hogs arrived on the island, but they sure know how to live it up. Visitors can swim with them, take pictures and enjoy some snorkeling with turtles or go scuba diving around the island. It’s a once in a lifetime experience that you should not miss!

Rabbit Island, Japan

Ōkunoshima, more commonly known as Rabbit Island is located in the inland sea of Japan. The Island gets its name from the high amount of feral rabbits that call the Island home. Originally, they were used as test subjects in a top secret government chemical factory during World War II. After the war ended the island was developed as a park and the rabbits were released. Currently there are about 750 on the island. The animals are exceptionally tame and will come up to visitors to eat out of one’s palm. It’s amazing to be surrounded by so much cuteness.

Assateague Island, USA

The top of Assateague Island is part of Maryland while the southern area is part of Virginia. The island is famous for its wild horses which roam freely on the island. The horses are relatively small compared to their mainland counterparts and discussions are common if it is a pony or a horse. There are many throughout the island, so encounters with them on the beach, or during a walk are quite common. The island itself has plenty to offer such as sandy beaches, rivers to canoe, several types of deer and over 320 species of birds. Needless to say, this is one location nature lovers should not miss!

Christmas Island, Australia

Christmas Island is located approximately 300 miles south of Indonesia, and 1,600 miles away from the Australian mainland. The Island is a small Australian territory. There are only 2,000 residents on the island and therefore much of the island is untouched and covered in forest. The Australian government acknowledged the extraordinary flora and fauna of the island and turned part of the island into an official National park in 1980. The Island is world famous for the thousands of migrating red crabs which cross the island every year. The migration happens once the wet season starts at the same time as the cycle of the moon. Unfortunately it is not possible to predict exactly when this will occur but it will be usually around December or January, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Runde Island, Norway

Runde is on the west coast of Norway, and the area is famous for its fjords and steep, snow-clad mountains. There are only 100 people living on the island, with a total of 700,000 seabirds also calling the place home. The Atlantic puffin, with its distinct beak and coloring, is the star of the island and attracts many international tourists. With its distinct colorful appearance including bright red feet, white belly, black back and amazing beak this beautiful avian is easy to spot. The island is home to more than 100,000 puffins, making it a special place to visit for locals and tourists alike.

Cat Island, Japan

Japan loves cats which is why there are more than a dozen cat islands across the country. One of the most famous cat islands is Aoshima, which is overrun with street cats. From the moment you step off the ferry you will be surrounded by felines coming from seemingly everywhere. The cats are frequently fed, but are always hungry for whatever offerings tourists might bring. Visitors of the island can feed the cats and take pictures. As the cats are not shy, make sure you store away any food that is not meant for them. The island is the ultimate destination for cat lovers young and old.

Seal Island, South Africa

Just off the coast of South Africa near Cape Town on a small speck of land where tens of thousands of seals call home can be found basking in the sun. The island is only five acres, but is home to 64,000 Cape Fur Seals. It is quite the sight, but the stench caused by the animals (most closely resembling rotting fish) makes it a destination best viewed from a distance. Boat tours are offered from Cape Town and surrounding cities. On the way you also have a chance to see whales and Great White Sharks which use the are surrounding the island as a hunting ground. Be sure to have your camera ready.