Unique species of St Helena

St Helena is a remote volcanic island in the South Atlantic, is a paradise for hikers. With its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and lush, misty peaks, the island offers a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty. Whether you’re following in the footsteps of Napoleon or exploring the island’s unique endemic flora, each trail tells its own story. This guide takes you through some of the best hiking routes on St Helena, as experienced on a guided walking trip.

See trips

1. The St Helena Plover (Wirebird)

Best Place to See It: Deadwood Plain, Prosperous Bay Plain, and Horse Point

The St Helena Plover (Charadrius sanctaehelenae), known locally as the Wirebird due to its thin, wiry legs, is the island’s only surviving endemic land bird. It’s a small, elegant wader, often seen darting across open grasslands. Deadwood Plain is one of the best places to spot them, where conservation efforts have helped stabilise their population. Prosperous Bay Plain and Horse Point are also good locations, particularly if you’re exploring the island’s drier coastal areas.

2. St Helena Ebony

Best Place to See It: The Peaks National Park and Plantation House Gardens

Once thought to be extinct, the St Helena Ebony (Trochetiopsis ebenus) was rediscovered in the 1980s. This striking plant produces delicate white flowers and thrives in carefully managed conservation areas. If you’re hiking in The Peaks National Park, you may spot some growing in protected enclosures. For an easier sighting, visit Plantation House Gardens, where some specimens have been planted for public

3. Diana’s Peak Grass

Best Place to See It: Diana’s Peak National Park

This rare species of grass (Carex dianae) is exclusive to St Helena’s highest elevations. The best way to see it is by hiking up Diana’s Peak (823m), the highest point on the island. As you climb, you’ll pass through misty cloud forest, home to many of St Helena’s rarest plant species. The peak also offers spectacular 360-degree views of the island.

4. The Spiky Yellow Woodlouse

Best Place to See It: The Peaks National Park

One of the rarest invertebrates on the planet, the Spiky Yellow Woodlouse (Pseudolaureola atlantica) can only be found in the island’s cloud forests. These tiny, bright yellow creatures live in the dense vegetation of The Peaks National Park, where conservationists are working to protect their fragile habitat. While they’re hard to spot, knowing you’re in the presence of one of the world’s rarest species makes the trek up Diana’s Peak even more special.

5. The Blushing Snail

Best Place to See It: The higher-altitude forests, including Diana’s Peak and High Peak

This small but beautiful snail (Succinea sanctaehelenae) gets its name from its slightly translucent shell, which appears to blush in the light. It thrives in the island’s higher, wetter forests, making Diana’s Peak and High Peak the best places to look for it. If you’re walking carefully through the undergrowth, you might just find one nestled in the damp foliage.

6. The Giant Earwig

Current Location: St Helena Museum

Previously known Locations: Horse Point Plain, Prosperous Bay Plain (if rediscovered)

The St Helena Giant Earwig (Labidura herculeana) was once the world’s largest earwig, growing up to 8 cm long. Sadly, it has not been officially recorded since the 1960s and is officially declared extinct.

It was once found in dry, rocky areas like Horse Point Plain and Prosperous Bay Plain. While no one has spotted one in decades, why not head out to these points and see if you could be the first to see one this century?

You can visit the St Helena Museum to see one of the only remaining preserved specimens of this fascinating species.

Wildlife Conservation and Responsible Tourism

St Helena’s endemic species are part of what makes the island so special, but many of them are at risk due to habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. If you’re visiting, consider joining a guided nature tour or supporting local conservation projects to help protect the island’s incredible biodiversity.

Tips for Wildlife Spotting in St Helena:

✅ Visit The Peaks National Park – This is the best place to see a range of endemic plants, invertebrates, and the island’s unique cloud forest ecosystem.
✅ Walk quietly and slowly – Many of these species are small and well-camouflaged, so patience is key.
✅ Ask local guides for help – Many guides are involved in conservation efforts and know the best places to find rare species.
✅ Avoid disturbing habitats – Stick to marked trails and avoid picking plants or moving rocks.

Why St Helena is a Must-Visit for Nature Lovers

St Helena is not just a historical curiosity—it’s an ecological wonderland. Whether you’re looking for rare birds, unique plants, or bizarre invertebrates, this tiny island offers once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences. With its remote beauty and dedicated conservation efforts, St Helena is a dream destination for anyone who loves nature.

So why not call us to organise your visit, where you venture into the wild side of St Helena and discover a world of life found nowhere else on Earth.