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Two majestic giant tortoises engage in an intriguing encounter, with open mouths and challenging gazes, reminding us of the importance of conserving wildlife on World Wildlife Day.

World Wildlife Day: An Opportunity to Celebrate Biodiversity and Its Importance to Humanity

Every year on March 3, World Wildlife Day celebrates the importance of wildlife around the world. As a leader of conservation efforts in Galapagos, our organization is a key player. We work closely together with the Galapagos Park Directorate, as well as other partners, to contribute directly to the recovery and restoration of endangered species.

Protecting Galapagos’ Unique Biodiversity

A group of Galápagos albatrosses gathers on Española Island, showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of this emblematic species on World Wildlife Day.
©Galápagos Conservancy

Due to its geographic isolation, volcanic origin and marine currents, the Galapagos Archipelago has a wide range of endemic animals. Unfortunately, climate change and human activity have led to damage of several Galapagos eco-systems, leading to the extinctions of some species. Galapagos Conservancy has committed itself to reviving ecologically important species that are at risk of extinction, and restoring the habitats they inhabit.

Over 2,000 species are endemic to the archipelago, which is unique on Earth. It also has some of the highest endemism levels among oceanic archipelagos.

We are committed to protecting the Galapagos Islands’ unique species through our program ‘Iniciativa Galapagos,’ in collaboration with the Galapagos National Park Directorate. We are both actively involved in conservation projects under the program. These include protecting all species of giant turtles, land iguanas and Waved Albatrosses.

Galapagos: Challenges and commitments

The iconic pink iguana, an endemic species and symbol of Galápagos' extraordinary biodiversity, gazes out at the horizon, reminding us of the beauty and fragility of wildlife.
©Galápagos Conservancy

Washington Tapia has highlighted the progress in wildlife conservation, and the unique Galapagos ecosystems, highlighting the importance of flora, fauna, and ecosystems. These emblematic species are essential to the Galapagos eco-systems’ dynamics and the ability of humans to benefit from them. He noted that biodiversity conservation and ecosystem recovery are essential for human well-being.

This World Wildlife Day we celebrate the fragile and rich biodiversity of our planet and its ecosystems. This day is a reminder that all living things are interconnected and we share the responsibility of ensuring the sustainability of the natural environment.

We also contribute to protecting wildlife worldwide by conserving marine migratory bird species who visit the archipelago all year round. Join us on our mission to protect, restore, and conserve Galapagos.

Passionate parkrangers and conservationists from Galápagos Conservancy participate in the release of juvenile giant tortoises during an exhilarating conservation effort as part of the Galápagos Initiative program.
©Galápagos Conservancy

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