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Mara Speece/CDF
The CDRS Library: The Most Complete on Galápagos

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.

Squat lobsters guide scientists to new hydrothermal vent field

Scientists on a Schmidt Ocean Institute expedition have discovered a new hydrothermal vent field larger than a professional soccer field. The vent field found in the Pacific Ocean off the Western Galápagos Islands consists of five geyser-like chimneys and three hot springs, like those you might see in Yellowstone.

Greenpeace
Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia and Panama urged to ratify the UN High Seas Treaty

18 NGOs and civil society organisations have today published a statement calling for the governments of Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia and Panama to ratify the UN High Seas Treaty in order to accelerate the protection of the oceans.

Philornis downsi, an invasive fly.
Introduced Species Dashboard Galapagos Introduced Species Dashboard
Remembering Craig George MacFarland

The world conservation movement and the Galapagos Islands lost a passionate supporter, pioneering conservationist, mentor and friend with the death of Dr. Craig George MacFarland in April 2025.

DPNG
Strategic Alliance to Save Birds on the Roads of Galápagos

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.

DPNG
Strategic Alliance to Save Birds on the Roads of Galápagos

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.

Andres Cruz
IMPORTANT NOTICE

Important notice from the Charles Darwin Foundation: Fake Publication Alert

Alma Suárez / CDF
How conservation began in Galápagos

The conservation of Galápagos began in the 1950s, when scientists first raised concerns about threats to the islands’ unique biodiversity. This period led to the creation of the Charles Darwin Foundation and the Galápagos National Park in 1959.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Together for Floreana: Conservation & Restoration

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.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Together for Floreana: Conservation & Restoration

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.

Joshua Vela
Volunteers

Every year since 1971 we have welcomed and trained volunteers from all over the world who are committed to the conservation of the Galapagos Islands. Volunteers are a vital part of what makes the Charles Darwin Foundation such a special place to be.