The entire archipelago suffers as the temperature and nutrients levels in the waters of Galapagos fluctuate. El Niño’s warm spell is bad for marine life that thrives under the cooler conditions of the Humboldt. Sea lions and boobies are among the animals that struggle to find food. They often give up breeding and extend their range to search for food.
The warm seas evaporate more water, increasing the amount of rain on the usually dry and hot archipelago. The influx of rainfall in Galapagos has profound effects on the land. Rain triggers a far greater productivity of land and alleviates the usual drought conditions in Galapagos. The rain triggers a surge in plant growth, insect proliferation, and many wildlife types double or triple their reproduction.
El Niño, a natural phenomenon that occurs every 2-7 year, has increased in intensity since the end of the 20th century. This may be due to greenhouse gas emissions caused by humans, but this direct cause is not yet confirmed. We can only watch as it unfolds, but we know that Galapagos is going to face many challenges. Galapagos faces many challenges, including heavy rainfall, warm unproductive waters, and sea-level rises such as the 45 centimeters in 1997-1998.
We support many efforts in the archipelago, helping both wildlife and humans adapt to El Niño. This includes assisting municipalities with impending infrastructure threats, anticipating increased invasive species controls on land, as well as preparing for the recovery of coral reefs. We can only continue this vital work with your support.
Please accept my sincere thanks
Galapagos Conservancy received recognition during the donation ceremony, for its commitment to the long-term conservation and protection of the Galapagos ecosystem and species. Our President, Dr. James Gibbs received an honorary badge in recognition of his outstanding contribution to biosecurity from the Agency of Biosecurity and Quarantine Regulation. This event highlighted not only the importance of collaboration between organizations and local government, but also Galapagos Conservancy’s crucial role in the archipelago. It also emphasized the vital link between teamwork and institutional support and the conservation and biodiversity of Galapagos.
Innovative Microchips Improve Pet Management
©Galápagos Conservancy
Microchips, despite their small size, are highly effective at providing unique and permanent identification for pets. These microchips, which are usually implanted beneath the skin of the neck or nape, do not harm or cause pain to animals. These chips store an electronic unique identification number which can be read by a radio-frequency identification (RFID scanner). This technology securely links the animal with its owner’s information and its identity.
Washington Tapia has highlighted the importance of this contribution. He said: “This initiative will help improve the proper management for domestic cats and dogs on the populated island and protect our unique biodiversity.” This donation is an important step in addressing the issue of stray cats and dogs interacting with native species.
Positive Impact on Urban Coexistence and Conservation
Donating microchips has many benefits. They not only improve the health of communities, but they also benefit wildlife and local communities in Galapagos. Microchips help to speed up the reunion between lost pets and their owners. This reduces stress for both animals and owners.
These devices are more effective in management because they provide vital information for monitoring stray animals and sterilization campaigns. A microchipped animal may also discourage owners from abandoning animals and encourage more responsible care.
The microchip is essential to ensure pet ownership laws are adhered to. Microchips help to adhere to the existing rules and create a more orderly and respectful urban environment. They also improve the quality of our pets’ lives and their well-being.
Microchips will help improve the management and control of Galapagos animals. According to the Agency of Biosecurity and Quarantine Regulation of Galapagos a comprehensive pet census is currently underway in each of the province’s cantons. All pets must be microchipped in order to prevent inter-island travel and the illegal importation of dogs and cat into Galapagos.
Galapagos Islands: A Sustainable Alternative
We are committed towards sustainability, conservation of iconic species and support for institutions that help manage the Galapagos Archipelago. The importance of collaboration is illustrated by our recent donation to the Galapagos Biosecurity Regulation Agency. Galapagos Conservancy aims to foster harmonious coexistence of humans and the incredible wildlife on this archipelago.
©Galápagos Conservancy
A species of flycatcher appears to be extinct in Galapagos. Is another species in danger of extinction?
Scientists comparing genes of the so-called “Vermilion flycatchers” in Galapagos seven years ago realized that they were looking at two different species. The birds in question were not the Vermilion flycatchers ( Pyrocephalus obscure), which are common throughout the Americas. They were of a completely different species.
Experts soon discovered that one of the newly recognized species had not been seen in its native island of San Cristobal for decades. San Cristobal Flycatchers ( Pyrocephalus dubus ) have been declared extinct, though there are still reports of sightings.
©Agustin Gutiérrez
Black rats devour the eggs of birds, while parasitic avian vampire flies (em>Philornis downsi/em>) feed on the blood of chicks in nests. The larvae of the parasitic vampire fly ( Philornis Downsi ) feed on blood from the chicks that survive the hatching process. Introduced blackberry plants are choking out the native species on which this brightly colored bird relies for survival.
Galapagos Conservancy has been working with our partners, the Galapagos National Park Directorate, and other strategic partners to combat these threats. The results have been promising.
Scientists offer nesting material that is “self-fumigating”, treated with insecticides, to eliminate parasites in bird nests. Traps have also been placed throughout the archipelago in order to catch adult flies and prevent them from reproducing. Conservationists also work to reduce blackberry thickets, and restore native habitats.
The efforts are paying off. Twelve chicks have been born this year on Santa Cruz Island, a remarkable achievement considering that only 15 Galapagos flycatcher breeding pairs remain on the island. This was an important milestone for the bird.
Together with the Galapagos National Park Directorate we now support the expansion of this effort onto the other island where this unique specie is found. We hope to secure a better future for these stunning flycatchers, and the unique eco-systems that support their existence.
©Paul Salaman
A Remarkable Discovery
©Joshua Vela
Scientists from the Galapagos Conservancy and the Galapagos National Park Directorate discovered Fernanda in 2019. The initial excitement was temper with caution as genetic tests would be needed to confirm the species.
The geneticists at Yale University led by Dr. Gisella Caccone performed the analysis. The DNA of Fernanda matched the only other giant tortoise found on Fernandina Island, which was killed in 1906 by scientists and stored in a museum ever since. This confirmation led to a large-scale and immediate response to find a male partner for Fernanda in order to revive the almost extinct species.
The Quest for Survival
Galapagos National Park Directorate, and Galapagos Conservancy, were energized by this scientific confirmation. They organized ambitious expeditions in order to find additional tortoises. Scientists, rangers and volunteers searched the island despite its challenging terrain, which is dominated by a volcano. Even aerial support was mobilized to explore terrains that were inaccessible. No other tortoises were found.
Conservation Dilemma
Fernanda’s discovery gave hope, but the fact that no other animals of her kind have been found highlights the tragedy facing many species. Fernanda is currently housed at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Center, Santa Cruz. She serves as a symbol of both hope and urgency in conservation efforts.
Danny Rueda Cordova said, “We want to avoid Lonesome George’s fate,” referring the the last Pinta tortoise that died in 2012. It left no offspring. Fernanda needs a companion to avoid another heartbreaking loss.
The case of Fernanda – the presumed lone Fernandina tortoise surviving – encapsulates both the moral and complex challenges of modern conservation. Her survival in spite of all odds is a glimmering hope. However, the fact that no other members of the species have been found underscores how urgent and complex the work ahead will be. Fernanda is a powerful reminder of nature’s fragility and resilience. Her existence fuels efforts to preserve not only her species, but also the ecosystem in which she lives.
Patricia Stucki shares her inspiring story in the Galapagos Archipelago. This is a remote place where biodiversity and preservation are vital. Patricia Stucki, a naturalist and chocolate lover, successfully blended her Swiss heritage into the rich ecosystem on the islands thanks to the Galapagos Conservancy.
Birth of a Conservation Passion
Patricia, who grew up in Switzerland near a cocoa factory, developed a deep connection to the world of chocolate at a very young age. Her passion for cocoa has guided her to an unexpected career.
Patricia Stucki began her commitment to conservation in Galapagos on the busy streets of Switzerland. She sold chocolates to raise money for the islands. She managed this initiative from Switzerland and it showed her love for the islands long before she became a resident. This unexpected encounter created a bond with this natural wonder. As a naturalist in Galapagos today, Patricia shares not only the beauty of the island but also the story of how the chocolate sparked her love for the place. This connection has fuelled her desire to directly contribute to the conservation efforts of this beautiful archipelago.
She purchased land on Santa Cruz Island’s highlands in 2010, with the goal of growing her own cocoa. Her love of cocoa and her determination helped her overcome initial difficulties. Her perseverance paid off and now her plantation houses over 2000 cocoa trees, each with their own story of growth.
Galapagos Conservancy Influence
©Galápagos Conservancy
Patricia says that “this trip wouldn’t have happened without the financial assistance from the Galapagos Conservancy Grants.” As tourism in Galapagos was declining due to Covid-19, Patricia felt inspired to expand her company. The Galapagos Conservancy grants enabled Patricia to not only plant seeds, but also adopt sustainable production methods. This has contributed significantly to the conservation of the archipelago.
Patricia is now exploring the infinite possibilities of cocoa. The cocoa shells can be transformed into chocolate tea that is served with cinnamon and hot water. The nibs are made by breaking and roasting cocoa beans. They are high in iron, antioxidants and can be added to granolas or cookies. The nibs are also transformed into a liquid chocolate that is molded, infused with customized ingredients and can be refined. Galapagos Chocolate is more than a delicious treat. It’s also a testament of Patricia’s commitment to produce high-quality cocoa chocolate in the Enchanted Islands.
Each cocoa seed that grows in the Galapagos highlands represents Patricia’s passion, and the bridge connecting two worlds – the Swiss and Enchanted Archipelago. Her story shows how passion and persistence can bring disparate worlds together, bringing Swiss chocolate to Galapagos.
©Galápagos Conservancy
Our scientific research and conservation efforts are focused on the 12 giant tortoise types that inhabit Galapagos. We remain vigilant regarding the dire situation of certain species. The Santiago Island has 1000-1200 individuals, mainly males. According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species this species is listed as Critically Endemic since 2015.
Transfer and Collection of Hatchlings and Eggs
Recently, a team of scientists and park rangers with the Galapagos National Park Directorate embarked on a trip to the giant tortoise breeding areas on Santiago Island. The main goal of the expedition was to collect eggs and newly hatched tortoises to be transferred to the Breeding and Rearing Center, located on Santa Cruz Island. This center has significantly improved hatching rates and egg hatching rates. During the operation, 169 hatchlings and 169 eggs were successfully transported.
Each egg that is brought to the Breeding Center is a step in the right direction for the conservation of giant turtles. In order to guarantee the survival of the species, eggs and hatchlings are transported by air. We can overcome logistical obstacles by using helicopter transport, which increases hatching rates and hatchlings’ survival.
Long-term Recovery
©Galápagos Conservancy
After they reach the size and condition necessary to survive in the natural habitat, these young tortoises are returned to their native island to support the Santiago population. It should take around five years. This is a crucial step in restoring the giant tortoise populations of Santiago to their historical size and range.
Washington Tapia is our General Director and he has stressed that it is more important than ever to take research and management measures. He said that, “similar to what was achieved with other tortoise populations like Espanola in more critical circumstances, we aim at outpacing the specter extinction, and contributing to the restoration population, thus assisting in the ecological recovery of the island.”
Thanks to the generosity of donors who care about conservation, the collaboration between Galapagos Conservancy, the Galapagos National Park Directorate and Galapagos Conservancy is a key component of the strategies of the archipelago for ecosystem restoration and recovery of giant turtle populations.
©Galápagos Conservancy