Native Animals:
* Birds: Rarotonga is home to many bird species, including the Rarotongan fruit dove, the Rarotongan kingfisher, and the Rarotongan white-eye. These are endemic species, meaning they are found only on Rarotonga.
* Reptiles: The most common reptile is the Pacific gecko, a small, harmless lizard. Rarotonga is also home to the Rarotongan skink, another endemic species.
* Insects: The island is teeming with various insects, including butterflies, moths, beetles, and ants.
Introduced Animals:
* Mammals: While Rarotonga has no native land mammals, some have been introduced, including dogs, cats, rats, mice, and pigs. These introduced species can be invasive and threaten the native ecosystem.
Marine Life:
* Fish: The waters surrounding Rarotonga are home to a variety of fish, including reef fish, tuna, marlin, and sharks.
* Corals: The island's coral reefs are vibrant ecosystems teeming with marine life.
* Sea Turtles: The waters around Rarotonga are also a home to several species of sea turtles, including green sea turtles and hawksbill sea turtles.
* Whales: Rarotonga is located in the migration path of humpback whales, and visitors may spot them from August to November.
Remember: It's important to be respectful of the animals and environment when visiting Rarotonga. Avoid disturbing wildlife, keep a safe distance from animals, and dispose of waste properly.