The nature reserve at Desertas Islands is a popular bird destination and famous for its small colony of Monk Seals.

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The Desertas Islands or Ilhas Desertas are a set of three islands just southwest of Funchal, Madeira. The islands are named Deserta Grande, Bugio (monkey) and Ilhéu Chão (the flat islands) found on the way to the Selvagens Islands and the Canary Islands. All three long and narrow islands are rough and have peaks up to 400 meters making it a very impressive sight if first reached by boat. They were discovered in 1420 by a Portuguese discoverer and named after the absence of drinking water; the deserted islands.

This protected nature reserve is a popular destination for sea bird enthusiasts as well as scuba divers. Shearwater, Buzzard, Storm-Petrel and Bulwer's Petrel are some of the more common sea birds inside this sanctuary. Entering the islands is strictly forbidden, wardens on Deserta Grande will make sure of it, as are the south of Large Deserta and Bugio. These pretty islands are of geological and scientific importance and therefore well maintained and protected. A small resident colony of Monk Seals is often spotted near the beach and if lucky while scuba diving. There are boats that visit the islands but they appear to be filled up quickly so book well in advance.

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