The Galapagos petrel ( Pterodroma Phaeopygia ) struggles to survive in the harsh terrain of Santiago Island. This seabird, which is unique to the archipelago and genetically different on each island it nests on, is a sensitive indicator for changes in the marine environment, where it feeds, and the terrestrial environment, where it nests. The fragility of the nesting habitat and invasive predators are two major threats to the species.
In the 1970s, Santiago Island was home to approximately 11,250 nesting pairs of Galapagos Petrels. In 1985, the number of nesting pairs had dropped to less than 500. The current population is still at risk but the progress made in conservation and monitoring efforts provides valuable insight into the species needs. Galapagos Conservancy is proud to be leading initiatives to address invasive species, the greatest threat to petrels’ reproductive success, through science-based strategies and on-the-ground action.
Progress Toward Recovery for 2024 Expeditions
Two expeditions were conducted in 2024–one in October and one in July–to assess breeding success and threats to the Galapagos petrel on Santiago Island. A team of researchers and park rangers from the Galapagos Conservancy battled remote terrains in order to monitor historic nesting colonies.
Monitor nests and combat threats
The July expedition collected critical data despite adverse weather conditions. The use of acoustic monitoring helped to determine where the nests are located on the island. Of the 340 nests found in these areas, 49 juveniles flew successfully to their aggregation zone at sea after flinging 88 chicks. The team collected genetic samples and banded adults and juveniles to better understand the biology of this species.
Predators remain a threat. Four eggs, 21 chicks and six juveniles were found to have been preyed upon by rats and fireants, which highlights the pressure that invasive species continue to exert on the petrel.
Invasive Species Control and the Reproductive Success
During the mission, rat bait was placed in 166 strategic areas, and almost 700 fire ant colony were treated to reduce predator pressure. The effort produced positive results. Of the 340 nests examined, almost a third of them produced juveniles who successfully fledged. This shows the effectiveness of conservation measures, especially the intensive control over invasive predators such as rats and fireants. The team advanced habitat characterization, which laid a solid foundation to continue monitoring and conservation.
Building Infrastructure and Commitment
Santiago Island is a challenging place, both in terms of its isolation and the threat posed by invasive species. Galapagos Conservancy has been actively working to improve the infrastructure of the area, including renovating the La Central Field Station, in order to enhance logistics operations in this remote location.
Dr. Director of Conservation at Galapagos Conservancy, Jorge Carrion, said, “Strengthening the infrastructure on Santiago Island will be essential to our joint operations with Galapagos National Park Directorate.” This will enhance the efficiency of conservation missions, and demonstrate our commitment to the Galapagos Petrel.
The Galapagos Petrel: A Future with Hope
The 2024 Expeditions did not only advance the recovery of an iconic species, but also demonstrated the importance of collaboration between Galapagos Conservancy and the Galapagos National Park Directorate. We are creating a better future for the Galapagos Petrel through science-driven action and careful planning.
As we move forward, our focus will be on eliminating invasive species, improving infrastructure and increasing monitoring in key nesting areas. Each nest protected and every threat mitigated brings us closer towards securing the Galapagos Petrel’s future and preserving its natural wonders.
The Galapagos Petrel on Santiago Island is enjoying a better future through a combination of science-led initiatives and collaborative actions.
