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Cinchona pubescens Vahl
Species Database Cinchona pubescens Vahl
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Our History

Discover the Charles Darwin Foundation, established in 1959 to protect the Galapagos Islands' fragile ecosystem. As the oldest and largest science and conservation organization in the archipelago, our Research Station leads efforts to preserve this unique environment through groundbreaking research and conservation milestones.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Galapagos Rail Rediscovered on Floreana

The Galapagos Rail (Laterallus spilonota) has been confirmed on Floreana Island for the first time in 190 years. This follows a 2023 eradication campaign that removed most invasive cats and rats, likely aiding its survival. Researchers will conduct genetic testing to determine if the species recolonized or persisted undetected.

Rashid Cruz-CDF
Rashid Cruz-CDF
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
A Silent Hero: The Australian Ladybug

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.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
A Silent Hero: The Australian Ladybug

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.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Field Stories in Galápagos: An Adventure in Conservation

Working in Galápagos is more than just a job—it’s a mission, a deep connection to a fragile and unique ecosystem. With 12 years of experience in communication, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing how the collaboration between science and communication is one of the most powerful strategies for conserving this paradise.
In this story, I’ll share one of my most recent field experiences in the Scalesia forest at Los Gemelos, where nature and human effort come together to protect our home.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Field Stories in Galápagos: An Adventure in Conservation

Working in Galápagos is more than just a job—it’s a mission, a deep connection to a fragile and unique ecosystem. With 12 years of experience in communication, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing how the collaboration between science and communication is one of the most powerful strategies for conserving this paradise.
In this story, I’ll share one of my most recent field experiences in the Scalesia forest at Los Gemelos, where nature and human effort come together to protect our home.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Rubus megalococcus Focke
Rubus glaucus Benth.
Species Database Rubus glaucus Benth.
GalápagosVerde2050/CDF
26 Years of Vegetation Monitoring on Santa Cruz

For 26 years, scientists have returned to the misty highlands of Santa Cruz to track the impacts of the invasive quinine and of the management actions. The continuous control of invasive plants resulted in the remarkable recovery of endemic plant species, especially that of the iconic Miconia robinsoniana. This is the story of endurance, restoration, and how a long-term commitment can strengthen conservation actions to protect the Galapagos ecosystems.

Rashid Cruz/CDF
Science Behind Conservation: Penguins and Cormorants

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.

Rashid Cruz/CDF
Science Behind Conservation: Penguins and Cormorants

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.