Giant tortoises are emblems of Galapagos. They are critical ecosystem engineers and they are also important for the local economy. Yet all 12 species of Galapagos Giant Tortoises are of conservation concern. Our work focuses on conserving these gentle giants through research and education.

Phil van Haarlem was truly a force of nature. In celebration of his life, and to honour his time with us over the last 10 years, we have asked colleagues and friends to tell us their unique experience with Phil, whom we miss dearly.

The Charles Darwin Foundation reveals its new mission and launches its 2022 Impact Report during its 52nd General Assembly

Imagine being able to peek into the past and witness how the underwater world of Galapagos has changed over time. Now you can, thansk to more than 20 years of biodiversity data collected by Charles Darwin Foundation scientists made available online.

Scalesia forests once thrived on the Galapagos Islands, forming a unique humid ecosystem for plants, insects, giant tortoises and birds. Today, only 1% of the forests’ original distribution remains, with several endemic species, including the Scalesia themselves, struggling to survive. We are working to restore this important habitat and given the rapid rate of forest loss, it is a race against time.