In a joint effort to protect the unique biodiversity of the islands, representatives from the public and private sectors, NGOs, transport cooperatives, and local governments gathered to understand the factors and solutions to reduce bird mortality on the roads of Galápagos caused by vehicles, the road connecting Puerto Ayora to the Itabaca Channel is of great importance as it passes through protected and productive areas of the island.

In a joint effort to protect the unique biodiversity of the islands, representatives from the public and private sectors, NGOs, transport cooperatives, and local governments gathered to understand the factors and solutions to reduce bird mortality on the roads of Galápagos caused by vehicles, the road connecting Puerto Ayora to the Itabaca Channel is of great importance as it passes through protected and productive areas of the island.

Galápagos sharks do not all behave the same. Hammerheads form large schools, whitetip reef sharks rest on reefs, tiger sharks repeatedly return to key feeding areas, and whale sharks undertake long migrations. Understanding these different behaviors helps protect critical habitats, migration routes, and supports more effective conservation strategies for each species.

Beneath Galápagos’ iconic birds lies a hidden story of health and survival. A new study reveals the presence of viruses in landbird populations, offering the first baseline of disease risk in these unique species. Discover why monitoring “invisible diseases” is essential to protecting the future of Galápagos biodiversity.

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.

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!

October 3, 2023, marks the beginning of the implementation phase of the Floreana Ecological Restoration Project, the largest and most ambitious restoration initiative currently underway in the Galapagos Islands.

From shy “Shark-Strangers” to a united “Shark-Family,” the Charles Darwin Foundation Leaders Club is transforming young lives in Galápagos. Through leadership workshops, mentoring, adventures on Isabela Island, and unforgettable bonds, these youth are learning to believe in themselves and to protect their home. Discover their inspiring journey here.

Ecological restoration requires a clear understanding of existing biodiversity. In 2022, the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) and the Galápagos National Park Directorate conducted the first baseline study of invertebrate communities on Floreana Island. Over 15,000 specimens were collected from both agricultural areas and National Park land.

Wolf, Kup, and Pinta are three detection dogs donated by the Charles Darwin Foundation to Ecuador’s National Police to strengthen efforts against illegal trafficking of protected species in Galápagos. Trained to detect biological material, these dogs represent an innovative conservation and control tool for safeguarding the archipelago’s biodiversity.