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María Igual/ CDF
Conservation Efforts Drive Historic Recovery Signs for the Galápagos Mangrove Finch

Scientists in Galápagos have recorded the most successful breeding season ever for the critically endangered Mangrove Finch, one of the world’s rarest birds. Discover how years of conservation work, innovative nest-protection strategies, and collaboration are offering new hope for this species’ survival in the remote mangrove forests of Isabela Island.

Einar Klum/ CDF
Santa Cruz Population of Galápagos Little Vermilion Flycatcher Records Best Breeding Season Yet

After more than a decade of conservation work, researchers have documented 56 fledglings so far in 2026 — with more nests still active

Cardiospermum corindum L.
Species Database Cardiospermum corindum L.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Scientists Rediscover Scalesia retroflexa

The Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) is pleased to announce that 16 individuals of the rare plant Scalesia retroflexa were found growing on the steep, rocky coastal slopes of the southeastern point of Santa Cruz Island. Scientists from CDF’s Galapagos Verde 2050 ecological restoration team, in collaboration with rangers from the Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), made this discovery during a recent expedition, renewing hope for the survival of this endemic species.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Scientists Rediscover Scalesia retroflexa

The Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) is pleased to announce that 16 individuals of the rare plant Scalesia retroflexa were found growing on the steep, rocky coastal slopes of the southeastern point of Santa Cruz Island. Scientists from CDF’s Galapagos Verde 2050 ecological restoration team, in collaboration with rangers from the Galapagos National Park Directorate (GNPD), made this discovery during a recent expedition, renewing hope for the survival of this endemic species.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
158 Endangered Tortoises Released onto Floreana Island, Galápagos for First Time in over 180 Years

After more than 180 years, 158 endangered giant tortoises have returned to Floreana Island, marking a historic milestone in the Galápagos’ largest restoration effort. Discover how science, community leadership, and global collaboration are bringing back a lost lineage—and rebuilding an entire ecosystem from the ground up.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
When the Garúa Disappears: A New Research Unit Will Study the Future of the Galápagos Cloud Forests

A new international research initiative is investigating how climate change could reshape the Galápagos cloud forests by altering the iconic garúa fog. Discover how scientists will study water, biodiversity, and invasive species to generate the knowledge needed to protect the archipelago’s unique ecosystems and freshwater resources for future generations.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
CDF joins the Island-Ocean Connection Challenge

The CDF joins the Island-Ocean Connection Challenge to Implement Community-Based Monitoring and Safeguard Island Ecosystems

CDF Archive
In memory of Rodrigo Borja Cevallos

Former Ecuadorian President Rodrigo Borja played a pivotal role in strengthening the institutional foundations of conservation in Galápagos. As an Honorary Member of the CDF, he supported science-based stewardship through key agreements, governance frameworks, and lasting commitments that continue to shape conservation efforts today.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Species Database Opuntia echios Howell