Home

Results

CDF Archive
Our History

Discover the Charles Darwin Foundation, established in 1959 to protect the Galapagos Islands' fragile ecosystem. As the oldest and largest science and conservation organization in the archipelago, our Research Station leads efforts to preserve this unique environment through groundbreaking research and conservation milestones.

Carlos Espinosa-CDF
Galapagos FAQ

Learn how to explore the Galapagos Islands responsibly. Our FAQs cover their volcanic origins, unique wildlife, and how every visit can help protect this extraordinary ecosystem.

"El Niño" Climate Pattern in the Galapagos Islands

Learn more about the effects of El Niño in the Galapagos Islands.

Rashid Cruz/CDF
Science Behind Conservation: Penguins and Cormorants

The Galapagos Islands are home to species so unique they exist nowhere else on Earth. Among these are the Galápagos penguin and the flightless cormorant, evolutionary wonders that have adapted to thrive in these remote habitats. But these incredible creatures face mounting challenges from climate change, diseases and invasive species. Protecting them is no easy feat—it takes dedication, resources, scientific knowledge, and action.

Rashid Cruz/CDF
Science Behind Conservation: Penguins and Cormorants

The Galapagos Islands are home to species so unique they exist nowhere else on Earth. Among these are the Galápagos penguin and the flightless cormorant, evolutionary wonders that have adapted to thrive in these remote habitats. But these incredible creatures face mounting challenges from climate change, diseases and invasive species. Protecting them is no easy feat—it takes dedication, resources, scientific knowledge, and action.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Carlos Espinosa-CDF
Travel tips for Galapagos

Planning your trip to the Galapagos Islands? Here are our top travel tips to help you prepare for an unforgettable and responsible journey to this unique destination.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
CDF Joins Floreana Ecological Restoration Project as Co-Executor

The Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) has joined the Floreana Ecological Restoration Project as a co-executor, alongside other key organizations. This project aims to restore Floreana Island's ecosystem by eradicating invasive species and reintroducing native animals. CDF will lead habitat restoration efforts and support species reintroductions and monitoring. The initiative focuses on holistic restoration, serving as a model for future conservation projects across the Galapagos and beyond.

Carlos Espinosa/CDF
CDF teams up with OFC for long-term Galapagos conservation goals.

The Charles Darwin Foundation and Oceans Finance Company are delighted to announce a strategic partnership aimed at advancing crucial long-term conservation initiatives to enhance resilience to climate change in the archipelago and surrounding areas.

CDF
Control of the avian vampire fly

In a race against time, our scientists are working hard to find ways to control the avian vampire fly (Philornis downsi), an invasive parasitic fly that is affecting the survival of the unique small landbirds of the Galapagos Islands, including the iconic Darwin’s finches.