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.

Explore the Galapagos Islands' volcanic beginnings, unique biodiversity, and the global conservation efforts led by the Charles Darwin Foundation to protect them.

The G.T. Corley Smith Library at the Charles Darwin Foundation holds the world’s most comprehensive collection of publications on the Galápagos Islands. Its “Galápagos Collection” includes both scientific and grey literature, making it an invaluable resource for research and conservation. A digitization effort is underway to expand global access to this knowledge.

Floreana, the first inhabited island in Galapagos, faces significant environmental challenges due to both direct and indirect human impacts. However, thanks to the coordinated efforts of its community, research groups, local and international conservation organizations, authorities, protected area managers, and donors, it has become a symbol of collective action and hope for the restoration of the archipelago’s biodiversity.

Floreana, the first inhabited island in Galapagos, faces significant environmental challenges due to both direct and indirect human impacts. However, thanks to the coordinated efforts of its community, research groups, local and international conservation organizations, authorities, protected area managers, and donors, it has become a symbol of collective action and hope for the restoration of the archipelago’s biodiversity.

At the Charles Darwin Foundation, we believe that sustainable conservation depends on the involvement of the local community. Our goal is to inspire future generations of local conservation leaders, and embed conservation and sustainable development in the local culture.

While the Galapagos Islands remain one of the best-conserved destinations in the world, they are faced with numerous challenges that are derived from growth in tourism and local population. The Charles Darwin Foundation is investigating how sustainable practices across multiple sectors such as urban planning and energy can mitigate these impacts while enhancing local community well-being through the health of the islands' socio-ecosystems.

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.

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.