Wildlife in Galápagos

The remarkable and fragile ecosystem of the Galápagos

The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most extraordinary and unique animal species in the world. These animals have adapted and evolved to survive in the extreme and isolated environment of the islands. Without the presence of large land predators, the animals have lost their fear of being preyed upon, resulting in a remarkable meekness that is rarely found in wild species. Their fascinating forms and behaviors are truly one-of-a-kind and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. In fact, these animals were the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. If you want to witness the natural magic of the Galapagos Islands and experience the wonder of these incredible creatures, this is a destination that you absolutely cannot miss. Take a trip to the Galápagos Islands to discover all these beautiful animals!

What makes the wildlife in the Galápagos so remarkable?

CONNECTION TO EVOLUTION: Endemic species are those that evolved from another species. A clear example are the marine iguanas. In some sort of way, South American iguanas were cleared out to the Galapagos Islands years and years ago. South American iguanas typically inhabit trees, mostly eat plants, and clearly do not swim unless it is absolutely necessary for them. When they reached Galapagos, the iguanas emerged from the trees, taught themselves to swim and hold their breath as well as began eating algae.

ENDEMIC SPECIES: Some experts say that the way endemic species reach the Galapagos Islands is the following: they are flooded out of their homes and swept into a river during a severe storm, in which they hold fast to a fallen tree. Then the river washes them out to sea, where they suddenly magically survive until they reach the Islands. 

THEY GET EXTRA CARE: Endemic species are considered endangered by definition. Endangered species are thus protected and guarded through a variety of programs: sea lions are supervised, penguins and cormorants are counted annually, and hawks are labeled. Scientists and park operators are working hard to preserve endemic species so that both nationals and visitors can continue to enjoy watching these captivating animals.

Animals in the Galápagos aren’t afraid of humans

The Islands’ wildlife is remarkably fearless, and you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with land animals that evolved without natural predators for millions of years.

From swimming alongside wild sea lions and penguins to watching the magnificent mating dance of blue-footed boobies, and even being surrounded by basking marine iguanas, the Galapagos Islands offer an unrivaled chance to witness the natural world in all its glory. You’ll have the unique opportunity to observe giant tortoises in their natural habitat, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Threats to wildlife in Galápagos

For hundreds of years, Galapagos endemic species have coexisted peacefully. Indeed, numerous species have become so isolated that they have evolved and adjusted to the surroundings of individual islands, as Darwin mentioned once. Darwin also noticed this especially with the Galapagos Finch, a bird with a distinct mouth, coloring, and size on each island. New species have already been introduced to the islands, complicating the endemic creatures’ tranquility. Humans introduced species such as rodents, goats, and wild dogs to the islands. Large numbers of goats, for example, are ruining the tortoise inhabitants on Isabela Island.

All Galapagos naturalists, scientists, or park workers will tell you that the most significant issue confronting the islands is the threat that exists because of invasive species. Significant progress has actually been developed in the battle against introduced species in the Galapagos Islands. Please keep taking care of these amazing species as most people try to!

 

The most important species of the Galápagos Islands

The following is a compilation of 60 types of creatures that our Galapagos specialists have assisted in charting. By clicking on any of the species, you can gain knowledge about its environment and where you might spot it during your excursion on one of our Galapagos expedition cruises.