Results
Giant tortoises are emblems of Galapagos. They are critical ecosystem engineers and they are also important for the local economy. Yet all 12 species of Galapagos Giant Tortoises are of conservation concern. Our work focuses on conserving these gentle giants through research and education.
Cristian Peñafiel, our field assistant for the giant tortoise conservation program, was interviewed by our donor, Galapagos Conservation Trust, to share his experience studying these iconic animals.
Join our Wild Club today! By scheduling a recurring monthly gift, you will increase your impact on Galapagos conservation.
By adopting a Galapagos giant tortoise, you will contribute to our research and outreach activities related to various tortoise species. The Galapagos tortoises have become threatened largely due to habitat change and fragmentation, climate change, diseases, and introduced species. The Charles Darwin Foundation leads a multi-institutional project that aims to determine movement behavior, assess health, and describe the ecological role of tortoises in the Galapagos ecosystems.
While a mere 3% of the Galapagos Islands are home to people, our presence in this small fraction of the archipelago has put the native vegetation at risk. Our restoration program in urban and rural areas engages the local community in conservation and restoration efforts to secure the long-term health of these unique ecosystems.
For more than 60 years, the research undertaken at the Charles Darwin Foundation has focused on furthering our understanding of the natural systems, their relationship with those living in the archipelago, and the intricate and relationship with those living in the archipelago, and the intricate and delicate balance between climate, mankind, and nature. Major research efforts have also focused on the prevention, control, and eradication of invasive species to maintain Galapagos as one of the best-conserved archipelagos in the world.
Being a volunteer at the Charles Darwin Foundation was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. For two months, I had the privilege of participating in various projects that allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. From guiding visitors in the Exhibition Hall, collaborating with the Communications and Marketing team, to joining scientists in the field, I experienced a full immersion in the CDF’s conservation efforts.
Being a volunteer at the Charles Darwin Foundation was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. For two months, I had the privilege of participating in various projects that allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect the natural environment of the Galápagos Islands. From guiding visitors in the Exhibition Hall, collaborating with the Communications and Marketing team, to joining scientists in the field, I experienced a full immersion in the CDF’s conservation efforts.
Mangroves in Galapagos provide important habitat for endemic and threatened species, offer essential ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, and support the well-being of local communities through tourism and fisheries. Despite their importance and pristine condition, these mangrove ecosystems and their potential for climate mitigation remain understudied.