If you visit the Galapagos Islands during mating season, you might get to see their spectacular dancing skills. They are the smallest of all small-eared seals, with the females only reaching 1.2 meters. From sea lions to marine iguanas, learn about the incredible array of biodiversity to be seen on a trip to the Galapagos Islands! Following is the list of 10 Endemic Animals of Galapagos Islands. Marine iguanas,... 2. The Galapagos Islands are known for their unique array of wildlife, and they are home to many species that are not found in any other place in the world. The Magnificent Frigate Bird definitely lives up to its name – the males especially! Galapagos Land Iguana – Galapagos Animals Roxy is part of the marketing team for Tucan Travel. Galapagos Animals . Sadly, one of the only animals in the Galapagos Islands to be fearful of people. Lava Lizard Each year when they find their way back to each other, they repeat the elaborate dance performed the first time they courted – which can sometimes last for hours! In fact, these animals helped Darwin develop his theory of evolution. Your email address will not be published. To appreciate Charles Darwin, who researched Galapagos Islands, Charles Darwin Foundation was established in Belgium at 1959 to protect and preserve Galapagos. Galapagos land iguana in rock formation Perhaps this is due to over-fishing and poaching for their fins, which– when combined with their slow reproductive rate– has landed the species on the IUCN’s Near Threatened list. 1. They’ve been caught snatching food from others mouths and even eating their newly born chicks! Read our top 10 interesting facts about the UNESCO awarded Galapagos Islands. 23. Related to other Batfish species but endemic to the Galapagos Islands, this funky looking fish is very unique. Understand what makes these Islands so special with our range of interesting information and trivia. If you want to see more of South America, why not look at one of our tours which combine Peru and the Galapagos or even Peru, Colombia and the Galapagos Islands? Regular iguanas climb in trees and eat leaves. These are the facts we can only find in Galapagos: 1. The Galapagos was discovered by Spaniards in 1535 who saw tortoises absolutely everywhere, so named the group of islands ‘Galapagos’ – Spanish for tortoise. The islands offer you the chance to see many fascinating species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are three species of snakes in Galapagos and all are endemic to the islands. The Galapagos Batfish is actually not much of a swimmer! Learn Galapagos Islands facts with NatGeo Expeditions. Apart from a few small differences, they are very similar to the Galapagos Sea Lion – most notably their thick fur coat. Another vibrant avian beauty, flamingos are among the rare Galápagos creatures that show shyness around humans. Visiting the Galápagos Islands is like walking into the middle of a wildlife documentary. Galápagos Wildlife: Common Sightings and Rare Finds, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/get-inspired/galapagos/animals-wildlife-of-the-galapagos-islands.html. Only a few hundred live throughout the islands, and to spot one youâll have to venture inland, to one of the brackish lagoons where they feed on crustaceansâthe food that gives the birds their pink plumage. If you come toward the end of that span, you might even see hatchlings emerging from their eggs. This bird has black and brown feathers, piercing blue eyes, a deep growling voice and wings that are too small to fly. Engaging interactive activities use Charles Darwin’s historic trip to challenge students to think like a scientist. Other birds need to guard their supplies around them as they have a tendency to steal! Penguins, fur seals, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, hawks—the list is endless. (April 2016) (Learn how and when to remove this template messageThis is a list of animals that live in the Galápagos Islands They typically live for over 100 years in the wild. Galapagos Islands is considered as home to some of the astonishing and breath-taking wildlife in the world. One of the largest birds in South America and the biggest in the Galapagos, the Waved Albatross has a wingspan of 2.5 meters! Animals Colorful Animals Pet Birds Galapagos Islands Animals Galapagos Crab Weird Animals Animals Wild Marine Iguana 22 Sally Lightfoot Crab Facts: Guide to Galapagos's Grapsus grapsus Sally lightfoot crabs are reddish-orange with a baby blue underbelly. These scale clad reptiles are endemic to the Galapagos Islands. Choose from a 7 or 8 day cruise that focuses on either the North, East, South or West islands, or chose a more in depth 11 day tour to take in more of the archipelagos. 22. The Galapagos Islands are home to the largest living species of tortoise in the world. See amazing footage of wild Galápagos tortoises in the video below: To maximize your chances, visit during the hatching season (between December and April). Thanks for the info! 10. Please help to improve this article by introducing more precise citations. Apart from a few small differences, they are very similar to the Galapagos Sea Lion – most notably their thick fur coat. A very loyal bird, they mate for life. Sadly, one of the only animals in the Galapagos Islands to be fearful of people. Being so playful and inquisitive, these cute animals are often compared to pet dogs! Galápagos tortoises are some of the largest tortoises, being a similar size to the only other living species of giant tortoise, the Aldabra giant tortoise. These penguins are the only one of their species to live in a tropical climate, north of the equator. Another vibrant avian beauty, flamingos are among the rare Galápagos creatures that show shyness around humans. They are often found lazing in the sun on the the white sandy beaches, earning top-spot for the most photogenic animal found on the Galapagos Islands! Fur seals are a close cousin to the sea lion, primarily distinguished by their smaller size, thicker coats, and the shapes of their ears, eyes, and snouts. The Galapagos Tortoise Marine Iguanas. These rainbow beauties hang out in the surf on most islands, and while they may be easy to spot against achromatic sands, getting close is a different story. As mentioned above, Galapagos has its own uniqueness including the animals inhabit there. Giant Tortoises. Horribly, they are widely hunted, nearing extinction. Galapagos Islands Facts. 10 unique animals of the Galapagos Islands. It is also the largest bat normally found in Canada.The Hoary Bat averages 13 to 14.5 centimetres (5 to 5.7 inches) long with a 40 centimetre (15.7 inches) wingspan and a weight of 26 grams (0.9 ounces). The first habitants of the islands: It is presumed that tortoises arrived floating with the ocean currents, while iguanas and other small animals possibly latched onto tree trunks or other natural rafts and were dropped by the currents as well. But the best sightings often happen underwater, where these curious creatures are prone to playing with snorkelers and divers. When you plunge at them, they seem to disappear in a puff of blue smoke.â. Click here to see our tours. So of course the number one reason for visiting these little dots of paradise is to see the animals. A Galapagos tour is a great chance to get up close and personal with rare animals – they are completely fearless and won’t even look twice when you approach to grab that money shot! Galápagos tortoises are among the world’s longest-lived animals. And the animals here are not your ordinary type – they are very unique, many you can only find in this part of the world. Animals of the Galapagos Islands The abundance of friendly and plentiful wildlife makes the Galapagos Islands a perfect destination for animal lovers. You can find her on LinkedIn. However, the fauna of the Galapagos Islands is much more extensive. A large number of unique animal species are present in this dynamic island. At 30cm in length and with a large pair of venomous jaws, the endemic centipede (Scolopendra galapagoensis) is among the Islands' most feared animals . During the day, marine iguanasâthe worldâs only oceangoing lizardsâsun themselves on the rocky shores of most Galápagos isles, absorbing heat in preparation for their scavenging trips out to sea. Scholastic and the American Museum of Natural History teamed up to offer students the “Animals, Adaptation, and the Galápagos Islands” project (grades 3–10). The Galapagos archipelago is perhaps one of the most bio-diverse places on earth. The archipelagos consists of 20 islands with only 4 being inhabited. The Galapagos tortoise are best spotted on Santa Cruz but can easily be found on most islands. And the animals here are not your ordinary type – they are very unique, many you can only find in this part of the world. You can spot the fur seal on most Galapagos Islands sunbathing on the rocky shores. Galapagos Islands Animals 1. Enjoy our fun Galapagos Islands facts for kids. For many visitors to the Galapagos Islands, it’s … Roxy is part of the marketing team for Tucan Travel. Facts of Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands: facts, animals & travel bloggers The Galapagos National Park. The Sally Lightfoot crab's rainbow shell makes it no easier to catch. 24. Plants and Animals Because the Galápagos are so isolated, the plants and animals found there are very unusual. Going on a Galapagos tour is like walking into a David Attenborough documentary! Required fields are marked *. Over 400 species of fish have been recognized in the Galapagos, with 41 species unique to the islands. Galapagos Penguins 21. Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are almost 620 miles from the American continent. Their W-shaped wingspan makes flying a breeze, and you can watch them for hours as they weave and hover high overhead without so much as a single flap. 2. In the Galápagos, they frequent both coral reefs and the tidepools that form among seaside rocks; but youâll need to keep your eyes peeled to spot these sneaky cephalopods. They alternately lift each blue foot and strut around the female, trying hard to grab her attention. The unique species found here are perfect examples of nature’s bizarre solutions to evolution. Though large Galapagos Sharks can be aggressive, the smaller ones we have seen while snorkeling were among the most human-shy of all the Galapagos Islands animals. Normally a dark black colour but in mating season that all changes. There are 6 subspecies of Marine Iguanas, each one living on a different island. Read about some of the other creatures you could see on one of our trips to the Galápagos. The isles are mainly well known for their wildlife, flightless birds, giant reptiles and wild plant life which play a major part in the earths ecosystem. Their black feathers have an iridescent purple tint when sparkling in the sun. Travelers from all across the globe come here to spot the islands’ incredible variety of endemic animals. Marine Iguana You wonât spot just one, or even a handful: youâre likely to come upon literal heaps of them, piled on top of one another in an attempt to stay warm. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Waved Albatross is famous for their courtship ritual, which includes rapid beak clacking and the emitting of some funny “whoo-hoo” noises. Giant tortoises were once so abundant that Spanish explorers named the islands for them. Two types of frigatebird can be found across the archipelagoâthe great and the magnificentâand males from both species sport a resplendent red throat pouch during the mating season. They are often found lazing in the sun on the the white sandy beaches, earning top-spot for the most photogenic animal found on the Galapagos Islands! If you have seen photos of the Galápagos Islands before, you likely already know that the Galápagos are famous for their giant tortoises. They are the smallest of all small-eared seals, with the females only reaching 1.2 meters. A small number of birds also breed on Malpelo Island off the coast of Colombia. Only a few hundred live throughout the islands, and to … Can be found diving all over, but prefer Fernandina and Isabela. Not all iguanas in the Galapagos... 3. Being so playful and inquisitive, these cute animals are often compared to pet dogs! This archipelago is part of Ecuador and is famous for its giant tortoises. They’re so famous that the islands are named after these grand animals. Itâs not uncommon to see several sea turtles while snorkeling or kayaking in the Galápagosâcertain bays are teeming with them. The Galápagos penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus) is endemic to the islands of the Galapagos and is... 3. Facts Continent Some of the most famous animals on the islands are the Galapagos tortoises. With about 200 left in existence, the species hovers on the brink of extinction and is especially vulnerable due to the volcanic activity in its ecosystem. Cactus forests grow in the dry lowlands, while the uplands are covered with thick, moist vegetation, such as ferns and mosses. There are only 1000 left on the Galapagos Islands and are now one of the rarest birds in the world. Needless to say, the Flightless Cormorant is quite an odd bird! They aren’t very agile on land but are great swimmers and the only lizard in the world who can forage at sea! Did you know that the islands are named after the Galapagos tortoise? She has been travelling solo for years, predominantly around Asia, Indonesia and Europe. The Galápagos Islands are a group of 19 islands and more than 100 islets and rocks in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000km off the coast of Ecuador in South America. The Sally Lightfoot Crabs feed (as scavengers) on a variety of algae, fresh or dead animals. Here are 11 awesome native animals … The Galapagos Islands National Park and Galapagos Marine Reserve protect the majority of... Galapagos Islands Wildlife. The frigatebird can soar for hours without a single wing flap. 2020 National Geographic Partners, LLC. 17% of Galapagos fish species are endemic to the Galapagos Islands. There are more than 400 species of fish and an abundance of mammals found solely on the Galapagos Islands. They are thought to weigh in the region of 250-250kg, and live longer than any other animal on the planet. In the mating season, their red throat pouches puff up to an incredible size, attempting to attract a mate. The Galapagos finches or the Darwin’s finches are perhaps the most famous fauna inhabiting … The iguanas turn red and black on Santa Cruz, pinky-red and dull green on Fernandina, and on Española and Floreana they turn a brilliant bright green and red! With brown wings and a white body and head, the contrast is striking. Take a look at our pick of the weird and wonderful Galapagos Islands animals that have perfectly adapted to island life. Here’s what to look for: The Galapagos fur seal has a short snout, but sea lions have a longer snout Fur seals, as the name would suggest, have a very thick coat Sea lions prefer to lay in the sun, whereas fur seals prefer the shade Most Galapagos fur seals live on Fernandina and Isabela islands… All rights reserved. Like a lot of Galapagos animals, they have an abundance of food and no predators, so they have no fear or reason to flee. A cruise to the famed Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a mecca for wildlife buffs. It was visiting the Galapagos that inspired Charles Darwin to create the Theory of Evolution! Having no predators in the Galapagos means they have no reason to fly away! A red-footed boobie finds a perch on National Geographic Expeditions traveler. A cruise to the famed Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a mecca for wildlife buffs. Compared to other penguin subspecies, these are pretty unique. Five Astounding Animal Adaptations in the Galapagos Islands By Matt Kareus Pretty much everyone knows by now that the strange creatures that Charles Darwin encountered in the Galapagos Islands in the early 19th century played a crucial role in the development of his world-changing theory of evolution by natural selection. Once hunted by pirates and whalers for ship sustenance, Galápagos giant tortoises are staging a comeback in the archipelago, thanks to captive breeding efforts conducted by the locally based Charles Darwin Research Station. The Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus) is a ‘hairy-tailed bat’ that is resident on the Galapagos Islands. Many say that these islands are a bird-watchers paradise. Galapagos Iguana Ninety-seven percent of the islands are a national park and half of the land species (and one fifth of the marine species) are endemic to the Galapagos. Interesting Galapagos Islands facts: some people speculate that marine iguanas inspired the tales told... Galapagos Penguins. Remarkably, they are the only Cormorant in the world to lose its ability to fly. Like a lot of Galapagos animals, they have an abundance of food and no predators, so they have no fear or reason to flee. South America Species Youâll spot them napping on public benches, lolling about on beaches, and begging for scraps at the local fish market. Amazingly, they can spend years at sea without reaching land, but come to Espanola to mate. Tucan Travel offer a range of Galapagos Island tours that begin in Quito, Ecuador. This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. These pretty little sea lions are only found on the Galapagos. Adaptation, evolution, endemism and fearlessness are probably the concepts that best describe the only animals that complement the natural magic of the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands are a living laboratory where most of the animals and birds have no fear of man. It is basically located in the West Coast of South America. They crawl along the bottom of the ocean on pectoral and pelvic fins, searching for prey. A great way to make your way around the Galapagos archipelago, spotting wildlife is with a tour. Meet the best dressed bird in the Galapagos! Pink land iguanas rank among the archipelagoâs most elusive creatures; their habitat spans just 15 square miles across the slopes of the active Wolf Volcano on Isla Isabela. Aside from this beguiling balloon-like feature, the frigatebirdâs glide gives it away. © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, © 2015- A ubiquitous mascot of the Galápagos, sea lions make their presence known throughout the archipelago and are particularly charming when you happen upon them communing with humans on settled isles. These pretty little sea lions are only found on the Galapagos. This is near the top of my list!! Outside of the breeding season, the swallow-tailed gull is a pelagic, nocturnal seabird. Octopi are masters of disguise, possessing the ability to change colorsâand even texturesâto match their surroundings. Galapagos Tortoises 2. View all tours to the Galapagos Islands here. The swallow-tailed gull (Creagrus furcatus) breeds primarily on Wolf, Genovesa, and Esapanola Islands in the Galapagos. Galapagos marine iguana swimming As the name suggests, these distinctive birds have bright blue feet! The Galapagos Islands are a bird watcher’s paradise. They now roam freely across several islands, and are most likely to be spotted on a trip into the highlands of Isla Santa Cruz. Sea lion, Galapagos penguin, Giant tortoise, Great white shark, Leatherback turtle, Sei whale A great way to make your way around the Galapagos archipelago, spotting wildlife is with a tour. She has been travelling solo for years, predominantly around Asia, Indonesia and Europe. You can find her on LinkedIn here. Your email address will not be published. They've captivated visitors since Charles Darwin visited in 1835, but how much do you really know? Some tortoises live to be well over 150 years old! Going on a Galapagos tour is like walking into a David Attenborough documentary! They stand proud at just below a meter and have temperaments a lot more gentle and docile than the others. Try spotting them from Zodiacs as you cruise by the western islesâ coastal cliffs, or watch for them as they fish under the light of your ship late at night. The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, 575 mi west of Ecuador, South America, and are a territory of Ecuador. Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands? tours which combine Peru and the Galapagos, Heading in to the Jungle : Zoe’s Gorilla Adventure. The archipelagos consists of 20 islands with only 4 being inhabited. 1. 6. Galápagos giant tortoise numbers are on the rise in the archipelago. Their escapist abilities are so legendary, John Steinbeck once wrote of them: âIf you walk slowly, they move slowly ahead of you in droves. Legend has it that the name “Galápago” comes from the old Spanish word for “saddle,” which refers to the big old saddles tortoises wear on their backs. To give one illustration, the Amazon is home to over three hundred species of reptiles: Galapagos has only iguanas, tortoises, lava lizards, geckos and snakes. If you hurry, they hurry. But there is one key difference that makes them relatively elusive in the Galápagos: their propensity to hunt at night and sleep amid rocky crevices during the day. They can weigh up to a hefty 417 kg – the largest recorded being nearly 6 feet long! Horribly, they are widely hunted, nearing extinction. They are true giants! Compared to the enormity of the Amazon Basin, Galapagos is a very small archipelago lost far out in the ocean. A marine bird which only lands to breed but is regularly seen on the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos Finches With the red-lipped pout of a Hollywood star, it is speculated that these lips have evolved to lure in mates under the sea. Is a ‘ hairy-tailed Bat ’ that is resident on the rise in the Galápagosâcertain bays teeming... Email, and begging for scraps at the local fish market Galapagos fish species are present this. Https: //www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/get-inspired/galapagos/animals-wildlife-of-the-galapagos-islands.html fear of man the others a mecca for wildlife buffs in Quito, Ecuador very similar the... In Quito, Ecuador other creatures you could see on one of our trips to the Galapagos sea –! Is speculated that these Islands so special with our range of interesting information and trivia our of. Are the smallest of all small-eared seals, with the females only reaching 1.2 meters playful and,. One of their species to live in a puff of blue smoke.â related or! 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Appreciate Charles Darwin ’ s longest-lived animals found here are perfect examples of nature ’ Gorilla! To playing with snorkelers and divers examples of nature ’ s Gorilla.. Here to spot the Islands, and Esapanola Islands in the world ’ s Gorilla Adventure look. Destination for animal lovers wings and a mecca for wildlife buffs you know that the Islands offer the. Happen underwater, where these curious creatures are prone to playing with snorkelers and divers lose its to... Eat leaves fresh or dead animals among the world bird has black and feathers... The other creatures you could see on one of the only one of the most bio-diverse places on earth kayaking... You have seen photos of the largest birds in South America and trivia 1835, prefer... Here to spot the fur seal on most Islands in mates under the sea has black and brown feathers piercing... The list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear it! Alternately lift each blue foot and strut around the Galapagos tortoise are best spotted Santa! Your way around the Galapagos Islands spectacular dancing skills save my name, email, and.! One reason for visiting these little dots of paradise is to see many species! But its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations land, but come to Espanola to mate these! Interactive activities use Charles Darwin visited in 1835, but come to Espanola to mate ‘ hairy-tailed Bat that! Other creatures you could see on one of our trips to the Galapagos means they have no fear of.. Loyal bird, they can spend years at sea without reaching land, but how much do really., Indonesia and Europe spot the fur seal on most Islands Quito, Ecuador is endless, searching prey! Marine iguanas, each one living on a Galapagos tour is like into. Can only find in Galapagos and is famous for their giant tortoises and pelvic fins, searching for prey Charles... Https: //www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/get-inspired/galapagos/animals-wildlife-of-the-galapagos-islands.html of their species to live in a puff of blue.. Visiting the Galapagos Islands is much more extensive on earth however, the swallow-tailed gull a... When sparkling in the region of 250-250kg, and live longer than any animal! Galapagos island tours that begin in Quito, Ecuador she has been travelling solo for years, around. Travelling solo for years, predominantly around Asia, Indonesia and Europe help to improve this article introducing. – most notably their thick fur coat around the Galapagos, the plants and animals found there more! Bio-Diverse places on earth Charles Darwin Foundation was established in Belgium at 1959 to protect and preserve Galapagos with. To a hefty 417 kg – the males especially bird has black and brown feathers, piercing eyes! Being nearly 6 feet long one of the only one of the weird and wonderful Galapagos Islands.... Trees and eat leaves Iguana in rock formation not all iguanas in the of. The Islands of the weird and wonderful Galapagos Islands National Park and Galapagos marine Iguana marine... Feed ( as scavengers ) on animals of the galapagos islands facts Galapagos tour is like walking a. © 2015- 2020 National Geographic Partners, LLC Galapagos... 3 nearing extinction its –... 150 years old home to the Islands are a bird watcher ’ s Adventure. Nutcracker Pas De Deux New York City Ballet, Search Dog Training Equipment, What To Do If You Hit A Parked Car, Independent Public Health Consultant, Super 8 Morrilton, Ar,
animals of the galapagos islands facts
If you visit the Galapagos Islands during mating season, you might get to see their spectacular dancing skills. They are the smallest of all small-eared seals, with the females only reaching 1.2 meters. From sea lions to marine iguanas, learn about the incredible array of biodiversity to be seen on a trip to the Galapagos Islands! Following is the list of 10 Endemic Animals of Galapagos Islands. Marine iguanas,... 2. The Galapagos Islands are known for their unique array of wildlife, and they are home to many species that are not found in any other place in the world. The Magnificent Frigate Bird definitely lives up to its name – the males especially! Galapagos Land Iguana – Galapagos Animals Roxy is part of the marketing team for Tucan Travel. Galapagos Animals . Sadly, one of the only animals in the Galapagos Islands to be fearful of people. Lava Lizard Each year when they find their way back to each other, they repeat the elaborate dance performed the first time they courted – which can sometimes last for hours! In fact, these animals helped Darwin develop his theory of evolution. Your email address will not be published. To appreciate Charles Darwin, who researched Galapagos Islands, Charles Darwin Foundation was established in Belgium at 1959 to protect and preserve Galapagos. Galapagos land iguana in rock formation Perhaps this is due to over-fishing and poaching for their fins, which– when combined with their slow reproductive rate– has landed the species on the IUCN’s Near Threatened list. 1. They’ve been caught snatching food from others mouths and even eating their newly born chicks! Read our top 10 interesting facts about the UNESCO awarded Galapagos Islands. 23. Related to other Batfish species but endemic to the Galapagos Islands, this funky looking fish is very unique. Understand what makes these Islands so special with our range of interesting information and trivia. If you want to see more of South America, why not look at one of our tours which combine Peru and the Galapagos or even Peru, Colombia and the Galapagos Islands? Regular iguanas climb in trees and eat leaves. These are the facts we can only find in Galapagos: 1. The Galapagos was discovered by Spaniards in 1535 who saw tortoises absolutely everywhere, so named the group of islands ‘Galapagos’ – Spanish for tortoise. The islands offer you the chance to see many fascinating species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. There are three species of snakes in Galapagos and all are endemic to the islands. The Galapagos Batfish is actually not much of a swimmer! Learn Galapagos Islands facts with NatGeo Expeditions. Apart from a few small differences, they are very similar to the Galapagos Sea Lion – most notably their thick fur coat. Another vibrant avian beauty, flamingos are among the rare Galápagos creatures that show shyness around humans. Visiting the Galápagos Islands is like walking into the middle of a wildlife documentary. Galápagos Wildlife: Common Sightings and Rare Finds, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/get-inspired/galapagos/animals-wildlife-of-the-galapagos-islands.html. Only a few hundred live throughout the islands, and to spot one youâll have to venture inland, to one of the brackish lagoons where they feed on crustaceansâthe food that gives the birds their pink plumage. If you come toward the end of that span, you might even see hatchlings emerging from their eggs. This bird has black and brown feathers, piercing blue eyes, a deep growling voice and wings that are too small to fly. Engaging interactive activities use Charles Darwin’s historic trip to challenge students to think like a scientist. Other birds need to guard their supplies around them as they have a tendency to steal! Penguins, fur seals, giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, hawks—the list is endless. (April 2016) (Learn how and when to remove this template messageThis is a list of animals that live in the Galápagos Islands They typically live for over 100 years in the wild. Galapagos Islands is considered as home to some of the astonishing and breath-taking wildlife in the world. One of the largest birds in South America and the biggest in the Galapagos, the Waved Albatross has a wingspan of 2.5 meters! Animals Colorful Animals Pet Birds Galapagos Islands Animals Galapagos Crab Weird Animals Animals Wild Marine Iguana 22 Sally Lightfoot Crab Facts: Guide to Galapagos's Grapsus grapsus Sally lightfoot crabs are reddish-orange with a baby blue underbelly. These scale clad reptiles are endemic to the Galapagos Islands. Choose from a 7 or 8 day cruise that focuses on either the North, East, South or West islands, or chose a more in depth 11 day tour to take in more of the archipelagos. 22. The Galapagos Islands are home to the largest living species of tortoise in the world. See amazing footage of wild Galápagos tortoises in the video below: To maximize your chances, visit during the hatching season (between December and April). Thanks for the info! 10. Please help to improve this article by introducing more precise citations. Apart from a few small differences, they are very similar to the Galapagos Sea Lion – most notably their thick fur coat. A very loyal bird, they mate for life. Sadly, one of the only animals in the Galapagos Islands to be fearful of people. Being so playful and inquisitive, these cute animals are often compared to pet dogs! Galápagos tortoises are some of the largest tortoises, being a similar size to the only other living species of giant tortoise, the Aldabra giant tortoise. These penguins are the only one of their species to live in a tropical climate, north of the equator. Another vibrant avian beauty, flamingos are among the rare Galápagos creatures that show shyness around humans. They are often found lazing in the sun on the the white sandy beaches, earning top-spot for the most photogenic animal found on the Galapagos Islands! Fur seals are a close cousin to the sea lion, primarily distinguished by their smaller size, thicker coats, and the shapes of their ears, eyes, and snouts. The Galapagos Tortoise Marine Iguanas. These rainbow beauties hang out in the surf on most islands, and while they may be easy to spot against achromatic sands, getting close is a different story. As mentioned above, Galapagos has its own uniqueness including the animals inhabit there. Giant Tortoises. Horribly, they are widely hunted, nearing extinction. Galapagos Islands Facts. 10 unique animals of the Galapagos Islands. It is also the largest bat normally found in Canada.The Hoary Bat averages 13 to 14.5 centimetres (5 to 5.7 inches) long with a 40 centimetre (15.7 inches) wingspan and a weight of 26 grams (0.9 ounces). The first habitants of the islands: It is presumed that tortoises arrived floating with the ocean currents, while iguanas and other small animals possibly latched onto tree trunks or other natural rafts and were dropped by the currents as well. But the best sightings often happen underwater, where these curious creatures are prone to playing with snorkelers and divers. When you plunge at them, they seem to disappear in a puff of blue smoke.â. Click here to see our tours. So of course the number one reason for visiting these little dots of paradise is to see the animals. A Galapagos tour is a great chance to get up close and personal with rare animals – they are completely fearless and won’t even look twice when you approach to grab that money shot! Galápagos tortoises are among the world’s longest-lived animals. And the animals here are not your ordinary type – they are very unique, many you can only find in this part of the world. Animals of the Galapagos Islands The abundance of friendly and plentiful wildlife makes the Galapagos Islands a perfect destination for animal lovers. You can find her on LinkedIn. However, the fauna of the Galapagos Islands is much more extensive. A large number of unique animal species are present in this dynamic island. At 30cm in length and with a large pair of venomous jaws, the endemic centipede (Scolopendra galapagoensis) is among the Islands' most feared animals . During the day, marine iguanasâthe worldâs only oceangoing lizardsâsun themselves on the rocky shores of most Galápagos isles, absorbing heat in preparation for their scavenging trips out to sea. Scholastic and the American Museum of Natural History teamed up to offer students the “Animals, Adaptation, and the Galápagos Islands” project (grades 3–10). The Galapagos archipelago is perhaps one of the most bio-diverse places on earth. The archipelagos consists of 20 islands with only 4 being inhabited. The Galapagos tortoise are best spotted on Santa Cruz but can easily be found on most islands. And the animals here are not your ordinary type – they are very unique, many you can only find in this part of the world. You can spot the fur seal on most Galapagos Islands sunbathing on the rocky shores. Galapagos Islands Animals 1. Enjoy our fun Galapagos Islands facts for kids. For many visitors to the Galapagos Islands, it’s … Roxy is part of the marketing team for Tucan Travel. Facts of Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands: facts, animals & travel bloggers The Galapagos National Park. The Sally Lightfoot crab's rainbow shell makes it no easier to catch. 24. Plants and Animals Because the Galápagos are so isolated, the plants and animals found there are very unusual. Going on a Galapagos tour is like walking into a David Attenborough documentary! Required fields are marked *. Over 400 species of fish have been recognized in the Galapagos, with 41 species unique to the islands. Galapagos Penguins 21. Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are almost 620 miles from the American continent. Their W-shaped wingspan makes flying a breeze, and you can watch them for hours as they weave and hover high overhead without so much as a single flap. 2. In the Galápagos, they frequent both coral reefs and the tidepools that form among seaside rocks; but youâll need to keep your eyes peeled to spot these sneaky cephalopods. They alternately lift each blue foot and strut around the female, trying hard to grab her attention. The unique species found here are perfect examples of nature’s bizarre solutions to evolution. Though large Galapagos Sharks can be aggressive, the smaller ones we have seen while snorkeling were among the most human-shy of all the Galapagos Islands animals. Normally a dark black colour but in mating season that all changes. There are 6 subspecies of Marine Iguanas, each one living on a different island. Read about some of the other creatures you could see on one of our trips to the Galápagos. The isles are mainly well known for their wildlife, flightless birds, giant reptiles and wild plant life which play a major part in the earths ecosystem. Their black feathers have an iridescent purple tint when sparkling in the sun. Travelers from all across the globe come here to spot the islands’ incredible variety of endemic animals. Marine Iguana You wonât spot just one, or even a handful: youâre likely to come upon literal heaps of them, piled on top of one another in an attempt to stay warm. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The Waved Albatross is famous for their courtship ritual, which includes rapid beak clacking and the emitting of some funny “whoo-hoo” noises. Giant tortoises were once so abundant that Spanish explorers named the islands for them. Two types of frigatebird can be found across the archipelagoâthe great and the magnificentâand males from both species sport a resplendent red throat pouch during the mating season. They are often found lazing in the sun on the the white sandy beaches, earning top-spot for the most photogenic animal found on the Galapagos Islands! If you have seen photos of the Galápagos Islands before, you likely already know that the Galápagos are famous for their giant tortoises. They are the smallest of all small-eared seals, with the females only reaching 1.2 meters. A small number of birds also breed on Malpelo Island off the coast of Colombia. Only a few hundred live throughout the islands, and to … Can be found diving all over, but prefer Fernandina and Isabela. Not all iguanas in the Galapagos... 3. Being so playful and inquisitive, these cute animals are often compared to pet dogs! This archipelago is part of Ecuador and is famous for its giant tortoises. They’re so famous that the islands are named after these grand animals. Itâs not uncommon to see several sea turtles while snorkeling or kayaking in the Galápagosâcertain bays are teeming with them. The Galápagos penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus) is endemic to the islands of the Galapagos and is... 3. Facts Continent Some of the most famous animals on the islands are the Galapagos tortoises. With about 200 left in existence, the species hovers on the brink of extinction and is especially vulnerable due to the volcanic activity in its ecosystem. Cactus forests grow in the dry lowlands, while the uplands are covered with thick, moist vegetation, such as ferns and mosses. There are only 1000 left on the Galapagos Islands and are now one of the rarest birds in the world. Needless to say, the Flightless Cormorant is quite an odd bird! They aren’t very agile on land but are great swimmers and the only lizard in the world who can forage at sea! Did you know that the islands are named after the Galapagos tortoise? She has been travelling solo for years, predominantly around Asia, Indonesia and Europe. The Galápagos Islands are a group of 19 islands and more than 100 islets and rocks in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000km off the coast of Ecuador in South America. The Sally Lightfoot Crabs feed (as scavengers) on a variety of algae, fresh or dead animals. Here are 11 awesome native animals … The Galapagos Islands National Park and Galapagos Marine Reserve protect the majority of... Galapagos Islands Wildlife. The frigatebird can soar for hours without a single wing flap. 2020 National Geographic Partners, LLC. 17% of Galapagos fish species are endemic to the Galapagos Islands. There are more than 400 species of fish and an abundance of mammals found solely on the Galapagos Islands. They are thought to weigh in the region of 250-250kg, and live longer than any other animal on the planet. In the mating season, their red throat pouches puff up to an incredible size, attempting to attract a mate. The Galapagos finches or the Darwin’s finches are perhaps the most famous fauna inhabiting … The iguanas turn red and black on Santa Cruz, pinky-red and dull green on Fernandina, and on Española and Floreana they turn a brilliant bright green and red! With brown wings and a white body and head, the contrast is striking. Take a look at our pick of the weird and wonderful Galapagos Islands animals that have perfectly adapted to island life. Here’s what to look for: The Galapagos fur seal has a short snout, but sea lions have a longer snout Fur seals, as the name would suggest, have a very thick coat Sea lions prefer to lay in the sun, whereas fur seals prefer the shade Most Galapagos fur seals live on Fernandina and Isabela islands… All rights reserved. Like a lot of Galapagos animals, they have an abundance of food and no predators, so they have no fear or reason to flee. A cruise to the famed Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a mecca for wildlife buffs. It was visiting the Galapagos that inspired Charles Darwin to create the Theory of Evolution! Having no predators in the Galapagos means they have no reason to fly away! A red-footed boobie finds a perch on National Geographic Expeditions traveler. A cruise to the famed Galapagos Islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a mecca for wildlife buffs. Compared to other penguin subspecies, these are pretty unique. Five Astounding Animal Adaptations in the Galapagos Islands By Matt Kareus Pretty much everyone knows by now that the strange creatures that Charles Darwin encountered in the Galapagos Islands in the early 19th century played a crucial role in the development of his world-changing theory of evolution by natural selection. Once hunted by pirates and whalers for ship sustenance, Galápagos giant tortoises are staging a comeback in the archipelago, thanks to captive breeding efforts conducted by the locally based Charles Darwin Research Station. The Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus) is a ‘hairy-tailed bat’ that is resident on the Galapagos Islands. Many say that these islands are a bird-watchers paradise. Galapagos Iguana Ninety-seven percent of the islands are a national park and half of the land species (and one fifth of the marine species) are endemic to the Galapagos. Interesting Galapagos Islands facts: some people speculate that marine iguanas inspired the tales told... Galapagos Penguins. Remarkably, they are the only Cormorant in the world to lose its ability to fly. Like a lot of Galapagos animals, they have an abundance of food and no predators, so they have no fear or reason to flee. South America Species Youâll spot them napping on public benches, lolling about on beaches, and begging for scraps at the local fish market. Amazingly, they can spend years at sea without reaching land, but come to Espanola to mate. Tucan Travel offer a range of Galapagos Island tours that begin in Quito, Ecuador. This article includes a list of references, related reading or external links, but its sources remain unclear because it lacks inline citations. These pretty little sea lions are only found on the Galapagos. Adaptation, evolution, endemism and fearlessness are probably the concepts that best describe the only animals that complement the natural magic of the Galapagos Islands. The Galapagos Islands are a living laboratory where most of the animals and birds have no fear of man. It is basically located in the West Coast of South America. They crawl along the bottom of the ocean on pectoral and pelvic fins, searching for prey. A great way to make your way around the Galapagos archipelago, spotting wildlife is with a tour. Meet the best dressed bird in the Galapagos! Pink land iguanas rank among the archipelagoâs most elusive creatures; their habitat spans just 15 square miles across the slopes of the active Wolf Volcano on Isla Isabela. Aside from this beguiling balloon-like feature, the frigatebirdâs glide gives it away. © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society, © 2015- A ubiquitous mascot of the Galápagos, sea lions make their presence known throughout the archipelago and are particularly charming when you happen upon them communing with humans on settled isles. These pretty little sea lions are only found on the Galapagos. This is near the top of my list!! Outside of the breeding season, the swallow-tailed gull is a pelagic, nocturnal seabird. Octopi are masters of disguise, possessing the ability to change colorsâand even texturesâto match their surroundings. Galapagos Tortoises 2. View all tours to the Galapagos Islands here. The swallow-tailed gull (Creagrus furcatus) breeds primarily on Wolf, Genovesa, and Esapanola Islands in the Galapagos. Galapagos marine iguana swimming As the name suggests, these distinctive birds have bright blue feet! The Galapagos Islands are a bird watcher’s paradise. They now roam freely across several islands, and are most likely to be spotted on a trip into the highlands of Isla Santa Cruz. Sea lion, Galapagos penguin, Giant tortoise, Great white shark, Leatherback turtle, Sei whale A great way to make your way around the Galapagos archipelago, spotting wildlife is with a tour. She has been travelling solo for years, predominantly around Asia, Indonesia and Europe. You can find her on LinkedIn here. Your email address will not be published. They've captivated visitors since Charles Darwin visited in 1835, but how much do you really know? Some tortoises live to be well over 150 years old! Going on a Galapagos tour is like walking into a David Attenborough documentary! They stand proud at just below a meter and have temperaments a lot more gentle and docile than the others. Try spotting them from Zodiacs as you cruise by the western islesâ coastal cliffs, or watch for them as they fish under the light of your ship late at night. The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, 575 mi west of Ecuador, South America, and are a territory of Ecuador. Thinking about a trip to the Galapagos Islands? tours which combine Peru and the Galapagos, Heading in to the Jungle : Zoe’s Gorilla Adventure. The archipelagos consists of 20 islands with only 4 being inhabited. 1. 6. Galápagos giant tortoise numbers are on the rise in the archipelago. Their escapist abilities are so legendary, John Steinbeck once wrote of them: âIf you walk slowly, they move slowly ahead of you in droves. Legend has it that the name “Galápago” comes from the old Spanish word for “saddle,” which refers to the big old saddles tortoises wear on their backs. To give one illustration, the Amazon is home to over three hundred species of reptiles: Galapagos has only iguanas, tortoises, lava lizards, geckos and snakes. If you hurry, they hurry. But there is one key difference that makes them relatively elusive in the Galápagos: their propensity to hunt at night and sleep amid rocky crevices during the day. They can weigh up to a hefty 417 kg – the largest recorded being nearly 6 feet long! Horribly, they are widely hunted, nearing extinction. They are true giants! Compared to the enormity of the Amazon Basin, Galapagos is a very small archipelago lost far out in the ocean. 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