After more than 180 years, giant tortoises have returned to Floreana Island—reviving a lineage once thought extinct. Discover how hybrid tortoises were identified, bred, and carefully reintroduced, and why their comeback marks a turning point for island restoration, ecosystem recovery, and one of Galápagos’ most ambitious conservation efforts.

The Scalesia forest on Santa Cruz Island hosts 150 endemic insect species, representing 21% of those recorded in Galápagos within six studied groups. The research highlights their ecological importance and warns about threats from habitat loss and invasive species, reinforcing the urgent need for restoration and long-term conservation efforts.

At the Charles Darwin Foundation, our success hinges on the dedication and expertise of our remarkable team. Our people share a deep passion for conservation and a commitment to safeguarding the extraordinary biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands.

The artisanal fishing sector is vital to the Galapagos Islands, but it is facing increasing challenges such as climate change, unfair value chains, and over-exploitation. Our program seeks to create a more prosperous, autonomous, and fair seafood system that is respectful of the natural environment, and fosters resilience against environmental, socio-economic, and climate change.

Discover the Galapagos Christmas Bird Count Sticker Collector's Book, created by the Charles Darwin Foundation to engage youth in bird conservation. Learn about native bird species and download this educational resource today

The Galapagos Islands are home to species so unique they exist nowhere else on Earth. Among these are the Galápagos penguin and the flightless cormorant, evolutionary wonders that have adapted to thrive in these remote habitats. But these incredible creatures face mounting challenges from climate change, diseases and invasive species. Protecting them is no easy feat—it takes dedication, resources, scientific knowledge, and action.