The Galapagos Islands are home to a diverse array of species, many of which are endemic to the archipelago. Despite several conservation efforts and protection initiatives, this unique ecosystem faces ongoing, substantial threats. The Galapagos Islands and its marine ecosystem are currently facing many serious issues like climate change, plastic pollution and illegal fishing. In […]
Galapagos Shore Birds Many resident shore birds of the Galapagos are now sufficiently different from mainland species to have been awarded and endemic subspecies status by taxonomists. Only one has been given a full species status: the endemic lava heron. But what are shorebirds? These are birds that spend most of their time around seashores. These […]
“In a few days time the Beagle will sail for the Galapagos Islands. I look forward with joy and interest to this, both as being somewhat nearer to England and for the sake of having a good look at an active volcano.” Charles Darwin Letter to J.S Henslow, July, 12, 1835. Charles Robert Darwin was […]
Visitors to the Galapagos Islands will hear their guides talk about three different types of animals and plants. The terms used to describe them are endemic, native and introduced. What’s the difference? Endemic animals are only found in Galapagos: the marine iguana is one example. Native animals are found naturally in Galapagos and elsewhere: the Frigatebird is a good example. Introduced […]
It’s a commonly asked question: When is the best time to go to Galapagos? There are many answers, depending on what you want out of your Galapagos trip. If you want to see the reptiles and mammals that the Galapagos Islands are famous for, you may want to consult this calendar to help you plan […]
The continental mainland is crossed by the Andes Mountains and bordered by Peru, Colombia and the Pacific Ocean. The insular territory includes the unique Galapagos Islands. In this country, you can find a diversity of climates to enjoy from the snow of the Andes to the paradisiacal beaches and the mysterious jungles of the Amazon […]
The Galapagos Islands is a magical place that welcomes many species, the majority of them being endemic to the islands that attract and surprise many visitors from all around the world. It seems biodiversity sees no limits in the insular region of Ecuador. However, there are many endemic species that are more famous than others, […]
In the middle of the Galapagos Islands coat of arms is the image of a tortoise, perfectly apt because the islands are named after the Galapagos Giant tortoise. Well actually galápago means terrapin in Spanish but the first Hispanic mariners were not splitting hairs at that time and probably intent on avoiding confusion with other […]
When is a Royal magnificent? We’re not talking about some stand-out European prince or princess here but rather the Galapagos Royal Frigatebird or the Magnificent Frigatebird as it is often called. Bedecked in royal robe colors with the shoulder plumage of the males glistening purple in sunlight and with 7 foot wingspan spread, this truly […]
Of all the sea animals perhaps sea lions are the most playful and the Galapagos Sea Lion is no exception. If you wanted to throw an imaginary animal party then sea lions would be close to top of your guest list; they are just so much fun! Of all the animals that create a Galapagos memory mosaic […]
