Animal and Marine Guide Aore Island
Aore Island is surrounded by vibrant marine life and natural environments that are part of everyday island life. From reef flats and tidal pools to tropical bush and shoreline areas, guests will encounter a range of animals and ocean conditions during their stay. This guide provides a simple overview of what to expect, how to enjoy these environments responsibly, and what to be aware of when exploring. With a bit of awareness and respect for nature, the island can be experienced safely and comfortably.
Wildlife You May Encounter
As part of island life, you may come across a range of animals both around the house and in the surrounding environment. From daily dugong sightings and tropical fish in the water, to mosquitoes, ants, geckos, and the occasional roaming dog or crab, these are all normal for a beachfront setting in Vanuatu.
Most are harmless, some can be a minor annoyance, and a few simply require awareness. The guide below outlines what to expect and how to manage each one so you can enjoy your stay with confidence. Please read what to do if you encounter them below or full a full list of animals in Vanuatu click the button below.
Dugong Sightings
One of the most special parts of staying on Aore Island is the chance to see a dugong in the wild. These gentle marine animals are often spotted directly out the front of the house, usually grazing on seagrass in calm, shallow water.
Sightings are common, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the ocean is still. While we can’t guarantee you’ll see one, many guests do during their stay.
Dugongs are completely harmless and protected in Vanuatu. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, enjoy the moment quietly from a distance. Please do not chase, feed, or try to swim directly up to them, as this can disturb their natural behaviour.
This is a rare, natural experience — no tours, no crowds, just you and the ocean.
Can we swim with dugongs?
Can we swim with dugongs?
Yes, if one is nearby you can enter the water calmly, but do not chase or approach them. Let them come and go naturally and always keep a respectful distance.
Are dugongs dangerous?
Are dugongs dangerous?
No. Dugongs are gentle, slow-moving animals and are completely harmless to humans.
How often do you see them?
How often do you see them?
They are seen daily out the front, especially in calm conditions, but as wild animals sightings are never guaranteed.
What time of day are they most active?
What time of day are they most active?
Early morning and late afternoon when the water is calm.
What if I am unsure how serious it is?
Can we feed them?
Not by hand. But leaving paw paw on the beach they may come in
Feeding by hand or interfering with dugongs is not allowed and can harm them.
What should we do if we see one?
Stay calm, keep your distance, and enjoy the moment quietly. Avoid sudden movements or noise
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are part of island life and can be more noticeable at certain times of the day, especially around sunrise and sunset. After rain or in still weather, numbers can increase.
We provide basic protection, but it’s important to manage this yourself as well. Using repellent, wearing light long sleeves in the evening, and keeping doors closed will make a big difference. Fans also help, as mosquitoes struggle in moving air.
They are more of an annoyance than a danger, but like anywhere tropical, it’s best to take simple precautions.
What should I use for bites?
What should I use for bites?
We strongly recommend using antihistamine tablets and a steroid cream, both available from Uncle Bill’s Chemist. A small amount may be available in the house medicine box, but for proper treatment, please purchase from the chemist in town.
Are there a lot of mosquitoes?
It depends on weather and time of day. They are most active at sunrise and sunset and after rain.
Do you provide repellent?
Do you provide repellent?
We provide basic starter supplies, but we recommend bringing your preferred repellent.
- Repellent
- Mozzie coils
Should we use a mosquito net?
Should we use a mosquito net?
If available, it’s a good option for sleeping, especially if you’re sensitive to bites.
Are they dangerous?
Are they dangerous?
They are generally just an annoyance, but as in all tropical locations, it’s best to avoid bites where possible.
For best results, treat bites early using pharmacy products from town. This will stop itching fast and prevent ongoing issues during your stay.
Ants
Ants are very common in tropical environments and you will likely see them during your stay. They are mostly harmless but can quickly appear around food, benches, and bins.
Because of the climate, even small crumbs or spills can attract them fast. Keeping areas clean is the key to avoiding them.
How do we avoid ants?
How do we avoid ants?
Keep benches and floors clean, wipe up spills straight away, store food sealed, and empty bins regularly. Do not leave food or rubbish out, even for a short time.
What does an ant bite look like?
What does an ant bite look like?
Ant bites usually appear as small red bumps on the skin. They can be slightly raised and itchy, similar to a mosquito bite, but often smaller and sometimes grouped together.
Some ants may cause a sharper sting, which can leave a small red spot that may feel warm or irritated for a short time.
In most cases, they settle quickly and are not serious.
What if I get bitten?
What if I get bitten?
Ant bites can be itchy. Treat them the same as mosquito bites avoid scratching and use antihistamine and anti itch cream.
Why are there ants inside?
Why are there ants inside?
They are attracted to food, sugar, and even tiny crumbs.
Once they find a food source, they will keep returning.
Are ants dangerous?
Are ants dangerous?
No. Most ants here are not harmful, just persistent and annoying.
Ants are part of island life, but with simple habits they are easy to control and usually disappear once food is managed properly.
Bats (Flying Foxes)
At night you may see or hear bats flying overhead. These are flying foxes and are a normal part of island life.
They are active after sunset and feed on fruit and flowers. You may notice them passing over the house or in nearby trees.
They are not interested in people and will not come near you.
Are bats dangerous?
Are bats dangerous?
No. They do not interact with people and will keep their distance.
Will they come into the house?
Will they come into the house?
No. They stay outside and are not a nuisance indoors.
They are loud at night, is that normal?
They are loud at night, is that normal?
Yes. You may hear movement or wings at night as they pass through. This is normal and part of the island environment.
Q: What should I do immediately after the shaking stops?
Q: What should I do immediately after the shaking stops?
Move carefully outside to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
Bats are a natural and harmless part of the island ecosystem. Most guests enjoy seeing them as part of the experience.
Lizards (Geckos)
You may see small lizards (geckos) inside the house. This is completely normal in tropical environments.
They are harmless and actually helpful, as they eat mosquitoes and other insects. You’ll often see them on walls or near lights at night.
Are geckos dangerous?
Are geckos dangerous?
No. They are harmless and do not bite.
Why are they inside?
Why are they inside?
They come in to hunt insects, especially around lights at night.
Can we remove them?
Can we remove them?
Yes. You can gently guide them out if you prefer, but most guests leave them as they help control bugs.
Do they carry disease?
Do they carry disease?
No. They are clean and safe to have around.
Q: Who should I follow for updates?
Q: Who should I follow for updates?
Follow the host and official weather updates. Instructions will be provided as needed.
Geckos are a normal part of island living and help keep insects under control, making them more useful than a problem.
Crabs and Coconut Crabs
You may occasionally see small land or coconut crabs around the house or even inside. This is normal in a beachfront environment.
- They usually wander in from outside, especially at night, and are not aggressive. They will move on quickly if left alone or gently guided back outside. Always keep doors closed to prevent them getting in.
Are crabs dangerous?
Are crabs dangerous?
No. They are not aggressive, but they can pinch if handled, so it’s best not to pick them up.
Why are they inside?
Why are they inside?
They sometimes wander in from the beach or bush, especially at night.
What should we do if we see one?
What should we do if we see one?
Leave it alone or gently guide it back outside using a container or broom.
Where should I go?
Where should I go?
You have 17 minutes from stong earthquake to move up the hill
- Move to higher ground or inland, away from the coast.
- Follow the Tsnunami signs
- Go out gate away from ocean
- Move tacross to Phoenix plantation and follow the road up the hill
- Wait until it is all clear before returning.
Crabs are part of the natural coastal environment. They are harmless, occasional visitors and part of the island experience.
Island Dogs
You may see local dogs around the island or near the house. These are village dogs and part of everyday life in Vanuatu.
They often roam freely and may pass by the beach or property. Most are calm, used to people, and not interested in interacting with guests. Never pat or feed them as they will stay at the house.
Should we pat the dogs?
Should we pat the dogs?
No. We recommend not touching or patting local dogs. They are not regularly wormed or treated for fleas and may carry ticks, parasites, or skin conditions.
It’s best to enjoy them from a distance and avoid physical contact.
The dogs look neglected, can we help?
The dogs look neglected, can we help?
We understand it can be hard to see, but please do not intervene directly by feeding, treating, or taking responsibility for local dogs during your stay.
If you are concerned about a dog’s welfare, you can contact Animal Welfare Association Vanuatu (AVA), who manage animal care and support locally.
This ensures the situation is handled properly and within the local community.
Are the dogs dangerous?
Are the dogs dangerous?
No. They are generally friendly or indifferent and will keep their distance.
What should we do if a dog comes near?
What should we do if a dog comes near?
Stay calm and ignore them.
Do not feed then
Do not pat them
Do not run. They will usually move on.
Can we feed the dogs?
Can we feed the dogs?
No. Please do not feed them, as this encourages them to return and rely on guests.
Why are there dogs roaming?
Why are there dogs roaming?
This is normal in island communities where dogs are not typically confined.
What if a dog barks at night?
What if a dog barks at night?
This can happen occasionally. Dogs may react to movement or other animals. It is normal and usually short-lived.
Local dogs are part of everyday island life. By keeping a respectful distance and contacting the appropriate local organisation if needed, you help support both the animals and the community in the right way.
Wild Cattle
You may occasionally see cattle roaming on the island. These are part of local farming and can move freely through bush areas, tracks, and sometimes near the property.
They are generally calm but are large animals and should always be treated with respect and distance.
Are cattle dangerous?
Are cattle dangerous?
Not usually, but they are large and unpredictable if startled. Always keep a safe distance.
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What should we do if we see them?
What should we do if we see them?
Give them space, stay calm, and do not approach or attempt to touch them.
Why are they roaming?
Why are they roaming?
Free-roaming cattle are part of local farming practices on the island.
Are they aggressive?
Are they aggressive?
They are usually calm, but like any large animal, they can react if they feel threatened.
Cattle are part of the island landscape. With simple awareness and distance, they are safe to be around and rarely cause issues.
Other Wildlife
You may also notice occasional, spiders, or local chickens around the area. This is normal in a tropical island environment.
These are not dangerous and are part of everyday life. Keeping doors closed and food stored will minimise insects, and animal noise (such as roosters) may be heard from time to time.
This is all part of the natural island setting.
Dangerous Marine Life
While the ocean is generally calm and safe, there are a small number of marine creatures that require awareness. These are not commonly encountered, but it’s important to know what to look out for.
Most issues can be avoided by watching where you step, not touching marine life, and wearing reef shoes when entering the water.
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What is a coral cut?
A coral cut is a scrape or cut caused by contact with coral, which is hard, sharp, and often uneven like rock. Even a small brush against it can break the skin.
Coral carries natural bacteria and tiny particles, so even minor cuts can become infected if not cleaned properly. This is why prompt cleaning and care is important, even for small wounds.
Are there dangerous animals in the water?
Rarely. Most marine life is harmless, but creatures like sea urchins, stonefish, or jellyfish can cause injury if stepped on or touched.
Are shark attacks a concern?
Are shark attacks a concern?
No. Sharks are not considered a risk in this area and are very rarely seen.
Are there crocodiles here?
Are there crocodiles here?
No. They are not known to be in this area.
What to do if you get a coral cut?
What to do if you get a coral cut?
* Get out of the water and rinse the cut immediately (saltwater first, then clean fresh water)
* Gently clean the wound to remove sand or debris
* Do not scrub aggressively
* Apply antiseptic if available and keep the wound clean and covered buy antibiotic from uncle bills chemist.
* Avoid swimming until the cut has started to heal
* Monitor closely for signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain, or discharge)
* Seek medical advice if the cut worsens or does not improve
Coral cuts can become infected quickly if not treated properly. Clean early and keep covered.
How do we avoid problems?
How do we avoid problems?
Wear reef shoes, move slowly, and watch where you step. Do not walk blindly in shallow reef areas.
What should we do if we are stung or injured?
What should we do if we are stung or injured?
Get out of the water immediately and inform your host. Hot water can help with pain from stings, and medical attention should be sought if symptoms are strong.
What is a stonefish?
What is a stonefish?
A stonefish is a well-camouflaged fish that looks like a rock and can be dangerous if stepped on. They are rare but important to be aware of.
What about sea urchins?
What about sea urchins?
They may be present in rocky or reef areas. They are easy to avoid if you watch your footing.
Serious incidents are extremely rare.
Dangerous Marine Animals in Vanuatu
Vanuatu’s waters are generally safe, but like any tropical reef environment, there are a small number of marine hazards to be aware of. The main risks are sea urchins and stonefish, which are usually only a concern if stepped on in shallow or rocky areas. Serious incidents are rare and easily avoided by wearing reef shoes, moving slowly in the water, and not touching marine life. With basic awareness, the ocean remains safe and one of the best parts of your stay.
What to Do in an Emergency
What to Do in an Emergency
* Get out of the water immediately
* Inform your host straight away
* Rinse the area and check for injury
* Use hot water if available to help reduce pain
* Seek medical care if pain is severe or ongoing
Quick action and calm response are key.
What to do if you step on a stonefish?
What to do if you step on a stonefish
* Get out of the water immediately
* Call your host straight away
* Stay calm and limit movement
* Immerse the affected area in hot water (as hot as you can tolerate, not burning) for 30–90 minutes
* This helps break down the venom and reduce pain
* Do not cut the wound or try to suck out venom
* Do not apply pressure or bandage tightly
* Seek medical attention urgently
* Arrange transport to hospital as soon as possible
Stonefish stings are rare but serious. Fast action and hot water treatment are critical.
What to do if you step on a sea urchin?
What to do if you step on a sea urchin
* Get out of the water and sit down safely
* Remove any visible spines carefully with tweezers (only what is easy to remove)
* Soak the area in hot water (as hot as you can tolerate, not burning) for 30–60 minutes
* This helps reduce pain and soften remaining spines
* Clean the wound and keep it clean
* Do not dig into the skin to remove deep spines
* Avoid walking on it if possible and monitor for swelling or signs of infection
* Seek medical advice if pain continues, spines remain, or the area becomes red or swollen
Sea urchin injuries are common but manageable with simple care and cleaning.
Final Note on Wildlife
Wildlife is part of what makes this place special. From dugongs in the water to geckos on the walls, you’re experiencing a natural island environment, not a controlled resort.
Most animals are harmless, some are simply part of daily life, and a few just require basic awareness. With a little common sense, everything is easy to manage.
Relax, enjoy it, and take it as part of the experience.
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