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Rashid Cruz/CDF
Unveiling the Secrets of the Galápagos Penguin

The Marine Bird Conservation Program combines science and passion to protect one of the rarest penguin species on Earth. By studying population trends, survival rates, and behavior, researchers at the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) use innovative methods like photo identification and PIT-tags to monitor individuals with minimal disturbance. This research not only deepens our understanding of these endangered birds but also highlights their role as indicators of marine ecosystem health. With fewer than 2,000 individuals left, urgent conservation actions are needed. Join the effort—adopt a penguin and support their protection!

Joshua Vela
Restoration of Arid Zones

In Galapagos, 83% of the landmass falls within the arid zone. Restoring plant communities in this zone is challenging and slow, and natural regeneration in severely degraded areas is very limiting. Our scientists work to restore the arid habitat across various islands in the archipelago, notably Baltra Island, which has undergone significant human alteration, and special use sites such as garbage dumps and quarries on inhabited islands.

Joshua Vela
Restoration of Arid Zones

In Galapagos, 83% of the landmass falls within the arid zone. Restoring plant communities in this zone is challenging and slow, and natural regeneration in severely degraded areas is very limiting. Our scientists work to restore the arid habitat across various islands in the archipelago, notably Baltra Island, which has undergone significant human alteration, and special use sites such as garbage dumps and quarries on inhabited islands.

Paul Mayorga/CDF
Conservation of threatened plant species

More than half of the endemic plant species in Galapagos are currently classified as threatened. The potential loss of these imperiled species not only disrupts ecosystem integrity, but also jeopardizes the survival of iconic native fauna that depend on it. We are updating the IUCN Red List of endangered plant species of Galapagos in order to enable targeted species conservation actions.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Sida spinosa L.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Physalis pubescens L.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Pilea baurii B.L. Rob.
Cissampelos pareira L.
Species Database Cissampelos pareira L.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Adiantum villosum L.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Justicia galapagana Lindau
Species Database Justicia galapagana Lindau
Desmodium incanum DC.
Species Database Desmodium incanum DC.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Adiantum macrophyllum Sw.