Galapagos is an amazing destination, if you´re a nature lover, I´m sure you would love to visit these islands. You know, these wonderful islands that emerged from the bottom of the sea in astonishing volcanic upheavals, the effects of which can still be observed today. Winds and competing ocean currents seeded life on this remote group of islands, creating the natural laboratory that compelled British naturalist Charles Darwin to develop his theories of evolution in the wake of his visit in 1835. His ideas shattered long-held basic concepts about life itself. Thanks to Ecuador’s visionary creation of the Galapagos Islands National Park in 1959, the islands may well be more pristine now than when Darwin walked their shores! From its namesake giant tortoises to dancing blue-footed boobies and albatross to marine iguanas – miniature aquatic dragons – to cavorting sea lions, the uniquely trusting wildlife of the Galapagos Islands will look you in the eye just an arm’s length away – connecting you to nature like nowhere else. Galapagos tours offer visitors a first-hand account of evolution and the opportunity to observe Galapagos iconic species, all in a place where nature shares its glory with humankind. Ok, but what species can we see if we visit Galapagos? Well, take a look to the following list:
1- GALAPAGOS GIANT TORTOISE
Of course, it´s the Queen of the islands. This is the largest living tortoise species in the world. Because of these unique creatures, the Spanish named the archipelago as “Galapago” is an old Spanish word for tortoise. The shape of their shells changes depending on which island they live in and in Isabela from volcano to volcano. The Galapagos giant tortoise often lives beyond 100 years. This is another endemic species of the Island and an icon of the area!
2- SANTA FE IGUANA
As its name says, this iguana is only found in Santa Fe Island, a small island of 24 square km (9.3 square miles) located off the eastern coast of Santa Cruz Island. Santa Fe iguanas have perfectly adapted to blend in with the colors of their surroundings which may make it more difficult to observe than another type of Land iguana. Their plant base diet is mostly made of the island’s prickly-pear cactus.
3- MARINE IGUANA
One of the most amazing of the endemic Galapagos species! Marine iguanas were referred as “imps of darkness” by Charles Darwin but their marine adaptations show a unique case of evolutionary biology. Marine iguanas can be found only in the Galapagos Islands. There are three species of marine iguanas and can be seen in Fernandina, Northern Isabela, Floreana and Española Island.
4- LAND IGUANA
These are the most distributed of the three species of iguanas in the Galapagos Islands. Land iguanas have an important role as the endemic resident herbivores of the Archipelago. Their nesting periods differ depending on the island they are. Rare hybrids of land and marine iguanas have been spotted in South Plaza Island and both species can be seen there, side by side.
5- GALAPAGOS HAWK
Don’t be mistaken by its size, the Galapagos hawk is the only predator in the Islands and the top animal of the food chain in the Enchanted Isles. This endemic bird is present in most of the Islands in the Galapagos and are generally unafraid of humans. They prey on young land and marine iguanas, hatchlings of tortoises, sea turtles as well as insects like locusts and centipedes.
6- GALAPAGOS PENGUIN
7- GALAPAGOS SEA LION
8- FRIGATEBIRD
In no other place on Earth but the Galapagos Islands do both great and magnificent frigatebirds coexist. They are easily recognized for their black plumage (with subtle differences between species and genders) and their impressive crimson gular sac. Both species look for fish in the sea while flying, but they are also known to steal food from other seabirds.
9- AMERICAN FLAMINGO
10 – FLIGHTLESS CORMORANT
Found only on Fernandina Island and the western coast of Isabela Island, this species is a clear example of evolution. The only seabird in the world that has lost its ability to fly – except for penguins – in order to adapt to the requirements of life at sea. Its solid bones and plumage that feels more like fur than feathers, allow it to spend a longer time in the water looking for food.
11 – RED FOOTED BOOBY
12 – GALAPAGOS ALBATROSS
Galapagos Albatrosses – a seabird endemic to Ecuador – can be observed when they migrate back to the archipelago every year. Their impressive wingspan of approximately 4 meters (13 feet) and famous courtship dance are a sight to behold. Watch as they engage on an elaborate dance that includes sword fighting with their beaks. You will find them only on Española Island.
For more information about tours to Galapagos, or Cruises to Galapagos, just email us at info@ripioturismo.com
Thank you!
Photos: Thanks to Santa Cruz II Cruise
