Results
The Galápagos landbird breeding season (January–April) is critical for conservation. Monitoring and adaptive management, including innovative control of Philornis downsi, are improving nesting success. Early results show population recovery in key species, supported by habitat restoration. Ongoing data collection will determine long-term effectiveness and guide future conservation strategies.
In the heart of the Galapagos Islands, a tiny, unexpected hero emerged in 2002 that would change the course of conservation. The Australian ladybug (Novius cardinalis), small in size but immensely effective, became a crucial ally in the fight against an invasive insect that threatened to devastate the endemic flora of these islands. This is the story of how science, innovation, and nature itself came together to help preserve one of the most valuable biological treasures on the planet.
In the heart of the Galapagos Islands, a tiny, unexpected hero emerged in 2002 that would change the course of conservation. The Australian ladybug (Novius cardinalis), small in size but immensely effective, became a crucial ally in the fight against an invasive insect that threatened to devastate the endemic flora of these islands. This is the story of how science, innovation, and nature itself came together to help preserve one of the most valuable biological treasures on the planet.
Record Year for Vermilion Flycatcher Season and Advances in the Recovery of the Mangrove Finch
The Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) is pleased to unveil the Galapagos Introduced Species Dashboard, the first open-access digital repository of information about species introduced to the Galapagos Islands.
It is estimated that 20% of the populations of small landbirds found on the Galapagos Islands are declining or have gone locally extinct. Our scientists work to ensure the long-term conservation of small Galapagos landbird populations for the health of the islands’ ecosystems at large.
After more than a decade of conservation work, researchers have documented 56 fledglings so far in 2026 — with more nests still active
12 Little Vermilion Flycatcher chicks fledge the nest, in most successful nesting season yet in Santa Cruz Island