The Cook Island Marine Reserve is a small protected island located on the Gold Coast in the south east of Queensland. With plenty of soft and hard coral gardens it’s the perfect sanctuary for a rich marine life. Visitors can see a variety of tropical sea life the including clown fish, damsel fish, angel fish, the occasional manta rays and of course the resident green sea turtles. The turtles can be spotted all year round in these oceans so you’re guaranteed a chance to swim with some when you visit.
When it comes to land animals, Barbados is best known for the green monkeys. Under the Caribbean Ocean however, Barbados is home to hawksbill and leatherback turtles. These curious creatures were once endangered due to over-fishing but are now protected and monitored throughout the island. In fact, the fishermen are more friend than foe; many will work hard to look after these aquatic reptiles by feeding them, making sure their nests are safe from harm and scraping barnacles off their backs. The best way to guarantee a sighting of a sea turtle is on a boat ride or scuba. Many Barbados resorts will organize trips for guests to embark on afternoon catamaran cruises for a chance to swim with the turtles.
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Barbados