Cousin Island Special Reserve in Seychelles has been financed sustainably through ecotourism for over 50 years. A Tourist User Fee (TUF) funds conservation activities for a range of species, including endangered land birds, seabirds, and Hawksbill turtles, as well as surveillance and infrastructure maintenance. The Covid-19 pandemic wiped out eco-tourism revenue causing funding shortages. A BIOPAMA Rapid Response Grant bridged this shortfall, primarily funding the salaries of 8 wardens and 1 science officer who manned the island and carried out conservation, research, surveillance and maintenance. Cousin Island Special Reserve was able to retain staff and effectively carry out conservation and maintenance activities.