The Galápagos Islands

This is Pinnacle Rock, Bartolome Island, Galapagos Islands, Equador. In addition to Galapagos Seal, this area hosts Parrot Fish, Hog Streamers, Wrasse,Blue-eyed Damsels, Green Sea Urchin, Pencil Sea Urchin and Surgeon Fish in huge schools.

Every area of these islands has it's own combination of wildlife. Some, many in fact, exist only on Galapagos Islands, or on only one island of the archipelago. One lonely inhabitant is known to be the last of his kind. For the most part, life is thriving for the animals of the islands. Many of these species are native only to these islands. Sadly, though, some are losing their battle to exist. They are the focus of this lens.

Why are we losing them?

~ Other species not native to the islands have been introduced here.
Some of these foreign inhabitants bring disease, or are predators to the natural life on the islands.
~ Certain infectious agents arrive here via the air or the ocean, and wipe out many of the inhabitants
~ Illegal hunting
~ Humans - both the increase in humans who now live on the islands, and human visitors.
~ Global warming and its large-scale impacts on natural processes

The islands' delicate ecosystems are continually threatened by population pressures, tourism, introduced species, poaching and illegal fishing - international demand for local products such as sea cucumbers and shark fins is on the rise
Source: PBS.org

What are we doing about it?
The goal is to restore the islands to their original native populations. "Captive breeding" involves fencing or caging the animals with others of the same breed to encourage more offspring. Additionally, the foreign species are being removed. These efforts are beginning to turn the problem around, but the animals still need help. Spreading awareness of the plight of the islands and it's creatures, both flora and fauna, is another good way to help.

Photo: Jean Spector