Wonderful Wildlife
Endemic animals on the Galápagos Islands are truly majestic and exceptional. Tour guides often tell visitors characteristics and facts about different endemic species. But, what exactly are these endemic animals?
Endemic species are the kind of species only found in the Islands. The Giant Tortoise, three iguana species, lava lizards, and snakes are among the most well-known reptiles. The Galapagos Penguin, Waved Albatross, Galapagos Hawk, and Flightless Cormorant are all unique birds. The Galapagos Sea Lions are the most well-known endemic mammals on the islands.
Make sure to keep reading so you get the information needed to compare some animals to others.
Their arrival
All endemic species arrived on the Galapagos Islands via a different route thousands of years ago. Iguanas, rice rats, and tortoises are thought to have originated on the South American mainland. 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. Truly extraordinary, right?
Their 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.
Most of the endemic species are reptiles!
Many reptiles, such as snakes or lizards, require far less water and food than a mammal (at least in a short period of time) and are less delicate to strong sunlight. Because Galapagos is so remote from the mainland, only the strongest species can make the journey.
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.
Battling invasive species
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. Park officials, scientists, and concerned Galapagos Island residents have fought these species for fifty years, with little success. However, 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!
