Christmas Island National Park

Fast Facts

Location: In the Indian ocean south of Indonesia (about 360 km south of Jakarta)
Attraction Type: Nature Park
Significance: Existence of the most diverse species in the smallest expanse
Best Time to Visit: October and November
Visiting hours: Daytime and evening
How to Reach: Fly to Christmas Island from Perth or Kuala Lumpur
Nearest International Airport: Christmas Island Airport

Christmas Island National Park is a fantastic combination of pristine tropical rainforests, coral reefs, and a unique fauna. The unusual habitat and species of Christmas Island in Indian Ocean supports world's largest robber crab population and serves as the only nesting place for Abbott's booby, a frigate bird endemic to Christmas Island. Visitors flock to this Indian Ocean island south of Indonesia to watch the grand migration of crabs during October and November every year.

History

This dependency of Australia is rich is phosphate deposits and explorations were carried out in the 1960s. Extensive mining thereafter caused considerable damage to local animal and plant lives. Abbott's Booby, a red-breasted frigate bird of Christmas Island, and red robber crabs were the worst affected. Consequently it became necessary to set up a National Park for conservation of the unique species inhabiting Christmas Island. In 1980, the south-west portion including Murray Hill, was declared a natural reserve. Thereafter in 1986 and in 1989 two extensions to the park were made. Significance

Christmas Island National Park in Australia provides excellent opportunities for ecological studies. Its endemic species of over 250 plants and animals include 160 varieties which occur only in the island. Abbott booby frigate bird and red robber crabs belong to this rare category. No other forest reserve in Australia sustains so many nationally and internationally endangered species in such a small expanse. By studying the life and behavioral patterns of the different species you could have a fair insight into the processes of adaptation, competition, immigration, dispersal, and extinction.

Activities

October and November are the best months to visit Australian Christmas Island National Park. Millions of crabs travel to and from the sea shores to spawn and mate. On certain routes roads are kept closed for safe movement of these crabs. Ethel Beach, Greta Beach, Flying Fish Cove, and Drumsite are the best places to watch migrating crabs.

Ethel Beach and Flying Fish Cove are also excellent locations for snorkeling and scuba diving. West White Beach and Dolly Beach are also perfect for divers. Colorful corals, dolphins, whale sharks and other tropical fishes are easily visible. Anglers can attempt catches of tuna, wahoo, and sailfish. You could also walk along the different trails through the National Park. These trails vary from rugged to well-developed and from short to long ones. Walk along these tracks through verdant rainforest and explore the wildlife.

Accommodation and Dining

When visiting Christmas Island, you could select between Adventure Dive & Fishing Lodge and Captain Cook Hotel for putting up. Rumah Tinggi Tavern & Restaurant specializing in Australian and Thai food, Malay Association of Kitchen, and Yong Chung Chinese Restaurant are the notable eateries in Christmas Island.

Related Links :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5o2J2fI59so: Check out the unbelievable scenes at the Christmas Island during the mating season of the red crabs in this wonderful travel video!