December marks the start of one of the most exciting activities of the year in Galápagos: the Christmas Bird Count. Now in its ninth consecutive year, this event, organized by the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) in collaboration with key partners, combines science, community, and fun to celebrate and protect the incredible diversity of birds on our islands.

The Charles Darwin Foundation shared the main achievements of its 2025 work through a public accountability event. The initiative highlighted how scientific research supports Galapagos conservation, encouraged dialogue with the local community, and reaffirmed that transparency strengthens institutional trust, collaboration, and long-term commitment to protecting the archipelago.

In 1982, a pioneering effort began at Cerro Pajas, Floreana, to protect the critically endangered Galápagos petrel. Scientists, park rangers, and conservation practitioners controlled introduced species, monitored nests, and tested new techniques. The results showed that science, sustained management, and collaboration could improve the breeding success of this threatened seabird population.

A Quito Photographer's Chronicles in the Enchanted Islands

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.

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.

In the heart of the Galapagos Islands, a tiny, unexpected hero emerged in 2002 that would change the course of conservation. The Australian ladybug (Novius cardinalis), small in size but immensely effective, became a crucial ally in the fight against an invasive insect that threatened to devastate the endemic flora of these islands. This is the story of how science, innovation, and nature itself came together to help preserve one of the most valuable biological treasures on the planet.