Aore Island is alive with wildlife, both on land and in the water. From dugongs and turtles in the bay to geckos, crabs and other tropical visitors around the house, encounters with local wildlife are a wonderful part of island life.
Enjoy watching them, give them plenty of space, and remember that they are wild animals sharing this beautiful island with us.
Dugongs
Dugongs are regular visitors to the bay and one of the special experiences of staying on Aore Island. They are attracted by the seagrass growing in the shallow waters close to the house, and guests are often lucky enough to see them while swimming.
Although they can become quite comfortable around people, remember that they are wild animals. Give them space, allow them to approach you rather than chasing or crowding them, and enjoy the experience quietly.
Turtles
Sea turtles are also frequent visitors to the bay and can sometimes appear surprisingly close to shore. Don't be alarmed if one suddenly pops its head above the water or swims past while you're in the bay — it's one of the wonderful parts of island life.
Enjoy watching them, but please give them plenty of room and never chase, touch or attempt to restrain them.
Geckos, Lizards, Crabs & Ants
Geckos, small lizards, crabs and insects are simply part of tropical island life, and you will almost certainly encounter a few during your stay.
Keeping doors closed, particularly at night, will help keep curious crabs and insects outside.
Ants are quickly attracted to uncovered food, so please keep food sealed and stored in the food lockers and wipe up crumbs and spills promptly.
Mosquitoes & Sandflies
Mosquitoes and sandflies are a normal part of life in the tropics and can be more noticeable at certain times of the day and after rain.
Keep doors closed when possible and use insect repellent when spending time outdoors, particularly around dawn and dusk.
We've supplied both chemical and natural insect repellents at the house for guests to use, and light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing can also help reduce bites.
Local Dogs
Dogs on Aore Island are generally free to wander rather than being kept behind fences, so you may occasionally have a four-legged visitor at the property.
Please don't feed visiting dogs, as they'll quickly learn where the treats are and may keep returning.
If a dog becomes a nuisance or you're concerned about its behaviour, take a photo and contact your host so we can identify the dog and speak with its owner.
Cattle
Cattle occasionally wander along the roads and may find their way towards the property in search of something tasty in the garden.
They're another quirky part of island life, but please keep the gates closed to discourage them from wandering into the yard.
Don't approach, feed or attempt to pat them. If cattle enter the property or are causing a problem, contact your host and we'll help deal with it.
Marine Wildlife
As with tropical waters throughout the Pacific, marine wildlife can occasionally include sharks, so always treat the ocean with respect and follow the swimming and ocean-safety advice provided in this guide.
The bay in front of the property is regularly used for swimming and fishing by local families and visitors, but wildlife and sea conditions can never be guaranteed.
If you're ever unsure about swimming conditions or anything you've seen in the water, contact your host before entering.