The University is currently operating under normal conditions the UNC Center for Galápagos Studies has been a hub of collaborative research activity spanning many disciplines strive to use their own experiences from the islands to expand its reach and grow its reputation as a world-renowned research institution Since Charles Darwin conducted his famous finch studies that led to his theory of evolution the Galápagos Islands have been heralded as a destination for seeing incredible wildlife more than 275,000 tourists visit the archipelago each year It is not merely an attraction for vacationers but a haven for researchers interested in terrestrial ecology a fully staffed physical building on San Cristobal that is a joint partnership between Carolina and the Universidad San Francisco de Quito Before Walsh set his sights on the Galápagos Thailand and the Ecuadorian Amazon and is well-versed in the logistical problems that come with international projects Having a physical location in a foreign country is a big deal It not only provides the technical infrastructure to run experiments but the personnel and partners to help solve complex problems “Social networks are important if you’re going to be somewhere long-term,” Walsh says Walsh has visited the islands more than 50 times — but that’s just a guess because he’s lost count He went so often because he wanted to create lasting relationships You have to have a beer with people,” Walsh says with a laugh Walsh had to build relationships at Carolina too — with scientists and leadership to support the Galápagos Initiative In 2013, he met Diego Riveros-Iregui a new hire in the geography department who was trying to organize a project in Colombia but was struggling with the logistics like finding a Colombian collaborator and the facilities to run experiments while abroad a place where UNC-Chapel Hill was quickly growing its presence I realized I could ask the same questions I was already asking in Colombia and I would have a lot more logistical support it was an easy decision,” Riveros-Iregui says Diego Riveros-Iregui and Amanda Thompson are the interim co-directors of the UNC Center for Galápagos Studies Riveros-Iregui is a geography professor who specializes in hydrology a similar exchange occurred between Walsh and Kelly Houk a Carolina graduate student attempting to work in the Amazon Rain Forest Houk’s first field season in the Galápagos was a successful one, and while planning a return visit, her advisor Amanda Thompson asked to accompany her to realize her own research would translate well there “The Galápagos are a unique opportunity to do integrated planetary research in a small space,” Thompson says “They serve as a test case that we can expand from and apply to other places.” Often called a “living laboratory,” the islands experience many issues common to other places — like food insecurity While it might take years to gather data on these topics in larger countries the Galápagos’ small size cuts that time in half A similar thing happens on an environmental level Because the archipelago sits on the equator and at the intersection of three major ocean currents meaning the weather patterns and landscapes change within just a 10-minute drive in any direction “The example I always think of is how California has experienced periods of drought for the last decade,” Riveros-Iregui says you would feel the effects of a drought immediately So the decisions we make there in response to changes in climate and the ecosystem are a lot more urgent.” Thompson and Riveros-Iregui have been members of the Center for Galápagos Studies since 2014 multiple projects on the islands and have served on the Galápagos Advisory Board as well as faculty research directors to Walsh They have watched the Galápagos Science Center grow to include more than 100 researchers working on over 100 projects they became the interim co-directors of CGS which they will oversee for the next 18 months until a permanent director is appointed and they had proven their mettle in other capacities,” Walsh says “It was clear to me that they would do a great job representing Carolina in the Galápagos.” Thompson will manage most of the center’s administrative tasks, like developing a five-year plan and maintaining relationships within the International Galápagos Science Consortium a network of collaborating institutions and scientists Riveros-Iregui will focus on encouraging more Carolina faculty and students to conduct research in the Galápagos “I keep joking that you need both of us to fill Steve’s shoes,” Thompson says “It’s just amazing what he was able to build in the past 10 years.” Endeavorsspoke with Thompson and Riveros-Iregui about conducting research in a foreign country and what they hope to achieve as interim co-directors Riveros-Iregui studies water on the islands and is engaged in projects analyzing fog and soil minerals Diego Riveros-Iregui:The advantages of both centers are that we all understand those challenges and we are equal partners with a local university in the Galápagos Science Center — the only university science facility on the archipelago when students and researchers travel to Galápagos they can focus on the work and not on the logistical challenges Amanda Thompson:The scientific and administrative staff at the Galápagos Science Center are extremely helpful in dealing with the logistical challenges of getting supplies to the islands and I’m interested in how early life environments shape health outcomes like obesity and other chronic and infectious diseases I found out that 60% of babies were being born by C-section in part because they are associated with limited breastfeeding That made the Galápagos an interesting place to look at how C-sections affect child immune development and diet quality in the Galápagos are associated with infectious and chronic diseases and mental health conditions While working on that project and going into households many mothers told me they were concerned about water quality That led to additional projects on water quality and how those are associated with infectious and chronic diseases and mental health conditions and I study water — a critical resource in the Galápagos because it is limited by seasonality My initial project was looking at the chemistry and fate of this fog — how deep into the soil it gets and whether plants use it or not Another project looks at the type of minerals that are formed in the soil the islands are relatively young and have been formed through volcanism They are all made of similar rock and are exposed to different microclimates and amounts of water but if you go up to the highlands there is rainfall and fog This leads to different kinds of soil and makes the highlands a better environment for agriculture DRI:About 30,000 people live on the archipelago and they are directly impacted by the research that we do Researchers discovered that as this water made its way down to the coast it contained more pathogens — information that was used to push for installation of a new water treatment plant administrators were worried that people wouldn’t utilize the hospital as much as they thought they would They asked us to interview key stakeholders and community members about their perceptions of the hospital and they ended up instituting some changes based on those recommendations DRI:My long-term dream is that the Center for Galápagos Studies becomes a well-known place for island research and that people know about UNC’s involvement I’d like to see it attract more researchers from Carolina and researchers all over the world It’s an exciting interdisciplinary research site that has the potential to impact global challenges DRI:And global education — the opportunity for Carolina students to study in the Galápagos with Carolina faculty Both Amanda and I have taught in the Galápagos several times and have seen the impact this has on students AT: Students who study abroad in the Galápagos often point to it as their favorite part of their Carolina experience That’s something we want to continue to enhance and provide opportunities to do Read more stories on Carolina’s researchers at Endeavors.UNC.edu Gillings graduate student Khristopher Nichols studies food environments — the physical economic and social factors that impact a community’s opportunity to access food — and how they shape people’s diets and health His work led him to the Galapagos to study one of the most complex food environments in the world Guskiewicz discusses how metrics are about more than just numbers They're about impact and the ways Carolina is accomplishing its mission of educating the next generation of leaders and delivering cutting-edge research that changes lives Will Larsen's love of science and the outdoors — combined with initiative and perseverance — led the Tar Heel to the UNC Center for Galapagos Studies and fieldwork on the remote islands Carolina researchers at the Galapagos Science Center have been shining a light on the challenges presented by human interactions on the islands and working to find the balance between helping the islands’ economy thrive while also protecting the iconic species A graduate student at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health Alyssa Grube honed her research skills by spending her summers at the Galapagos Science Center where she studied antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the environment © 2024 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill If you would like to learn more about the IAEA’s work sign up for our weekly updates containing our most important news Plastic pollution from overseas continues to wash up on beaches in the Galapagos Islands Renowned for their incredible range of subspecies and unique evolutionary adaptations the Galapagos Islands are sometimes referred to as a ‘living laboratory of evolution’ because of their isolated position in the Pacific Ocean some 1000 kilometres west of mainland Ecuador “To preserve the archipelago’s rich biodiversity the Galapagos National Park has implemented fiercely protective environmental policies to maintain the integrity of the unique flora and fauna that flourish on the islands,” said Maria Jose Marin Jarrin of ESPOL “These policies limit the number of people who can visit the islands and restrict entry to certain areas and beaches There are some parts of the islands where even environmental scientists are not permitted to go to prevent any adverse impacts on the ecosystem’s delicate balance.”  the islands are well protected from local plastic pollution but plastic waste from overseas presents a different challenge An estimated six tonnes of plastic waste wash ashore each year endangering the archipelago’s wildlife and environment the Galapagos National Park has developed a robust monitoring and cleanup programme for larger plastic debris microplastics — plastic particles smaller than five millimeters — pose a more complex challenge These tiny particles are easy for marine animals to ingest and may have negative impacts on their health Their size also impedes traditional monitoring methods and has historically prevented the National Park from gathering usable data to implement monitoring and mitigation programmes IAEA training course on harmonized methods for beach sand sampling As part of its NUTEC Plastics capacity building activities in Ecuador and Latin America, the IAEA, through its technical cooperation programme has facilitated the procurement of nuclear derived tools and hands-on training to enable scientists in the region to assess and characterize microplastic pollution and to generate high quality data on marine microplastic pollution With its new capacity and state-of-the-art technology INOCAR has become a regional hub for marine microplastic monitoring analysing samples from the Galapagos Islands and across Ecuador as well as other South American countries and even Antarctica supporting the collection of greater quantities of higher quality data As these technical cooperation projects unfold INOCAR will continue to conduct analyses on seawater and sand samples while the Polytechnic School of the Coast (ESPOL) will focus on biodiversity and marine and terrestrial organisms enabling the Galapagos National Park to better manage and protect these fragile ecosystems Scientific visits to the IAEA Marine Environment Laboratories in Monaco are a key part of harmonizing analytical protocols The IAEA training also helps to harmonize data collection methods so that data collected in the Galapagos is comparable to data gathered by monitoring programs around the world which helps to develop policy measures NUTEC Plastics partners and members of its Global Marine Monitoring Network are working in a wide variety of marine and coastal environments so monitoring protocols will vary accordingly,” said Carlos Alonso-Hernandez an IAEA research scientist and technical officer for NUTEC “Harmonizing these protocols enables us to compare data globally which gives countries the whole picture of microplastic pollution.”  As NUTEC Plastics continues to expand its research and development and capacity building activities as well as its Global Marine Monitoring Network the IAEA remains committed to supporting its Member States address environmental challenges and work towards a healthier NUTEC Plastics is addressing the global challenge of plastic pollution at point of source by introducing new technologies to improve plastic upcycling to reduce the bulk of plastic waste ending up in the ocean IAEA Experts Find Evidence of Microplastic Pollution in Antarctica from NUTEC Plastics Research Mission International Experts Gather to Advance Monitoring of Marine Microplastic Pollution IAEA’s NUTEC Plastics Featured at INC-2 Meeting Working Towards International Legally Binding Instrument on Plastic Pollution Irradiate: IAEA Supports Partnerships in Asia and the Pacific to Recycle Plastic Waste iStock, Agdekon Media Visuals Paul Stoffels, the former Johnson & Johnson executive who took over as CEO of Galapagos three years ago Stoffels will hang on for another 12 months at least and the board intends to nominate him again for a four-year term as chairman at the 2026 annual general meeting Meanwhile, Henry Gosebruch has been named as CEO of the spin-out company When Stoffels left his perch as J&J’s chief scientific officer in 2022 to replace founding CEO Onno van de Stolpe, he inherited a company that had gone through a series of clinical failures since its launch in 1999 Stoffels vowed to turn Galapagos around in five years with an aggressive approach to M&A to replace the failed clinical programs “I am proud to have transformed Galapagos into an R&D-driven biotech company with a clear focus on oncology,” Stoffels said in a statement But the Belgian company has also attracted the attention of Kevin Tang who has recently purchased more than 5% of Galapagos’ shares through his different firms Tang has now emerged as an activist investor Also the owner of biotech buyout firm Concentra Biosciences Tang is known for his bold moves to buy up failing biotechs and quietly shut them down Gosebruch will take over a massive bundle of cash that is earmarked for building out a new pipeline of medicines the company will be on the hunt for assets with proof-of-concept data and the potential to beat standard of care options will be charged with executing one or more transactions Gosebruch was previously CEO of neuroscience biotech Neumora he helped execute more than 100 business development transactions at AbbVie as chief strategy officer He was involved in AbbVie’s $63 billion acquisition of Allergan and the partnership for Skyrizi now one of the pharma’s best-selling medicines “Henry is the right leader to take on the CEO role for SpinCo as he leverages his extensive experience and the strong balance sheet to build an exciting pipeline,” Andrew Dickinson after his leadership team was initially swayed by Galapagos’ scientific platform Complete your personal information for a more tailored experience for the best life sciences journalism in the industry By Elaine Chen Elaine Chen Elaine Chen covers biotech, co-writes The Readout newsletter, and co-hosts STAT’s weekly biotech podcast, The Readout Loud You can reach Elaine on Signal at elaineywchen.70 Want to stay on top of the science and politics driving biotech today? Sign up to get our biotech newsletter in your inbox today we look at seemingly conflicting messaging coming out of the NIH the departure of a key executive at  Galapagos The NIH will start banning new grants to any universities that have DEI programs or boycott Israeli companies in an escalation of the Trump administration’s use of research funding as leverage Already have an account? Log in Already have an account? Log in By Megan Molteni By Mario Aguilar By Daniel Payne By Helen Branswell Reporting from the frontiers of health and medicine Galápagos Conservancy Four decades on, one of the world’s most ambitious restoration efforts has redefined the future for Galápagos reptiles. Today, we’re applying everything we’ve learned, using cutting-edge science and technology to protect these reptiles for the next 100 years In one of the most remote corners of the Galápagos Islands, a small colorful figure emerges from the volcanic rock. It’s a pink iguana hatchling—a sight that For Dr. Jorge Carrión Director of Conservation at Galápagos Conservancy “We saw these hatchlings for the first time in 2022,” he recalls the pink iguana is one of the archipelago’s most critically endangered species But its story is not just one of risk — it’s a powerful testament to how scientific dedication and unwavering persistence can help life endure By 1985, the outlook was dire. But it also marked a turning point. Galápagos Conservancy was founded with the core belief that it wasn’t too late to change the story. Since then, in close partnership with the Galápagos National Park Directorate and local allies we’ve led one of the most ambitious ecological restoration efforts on the planet we’ve invested over $50 million to advance science and local capacity to protect the world’s rarest reptiles The results speak for themselves. Thanks to the giant tortoise restoration program populations across the archipelago have grown by the thousands — and we even rediscovered a species once believed to be extinct for over a century Much of this success is thanks to dedicated individuals like Walter Chimborazo a tortoise care specialist at Galápagos Conservancy Walter has raised tortoises from hatchlings to the moment they’re strong enough to return to the wild at around six years old “This work is deeply ingrained my family,” he says I feel as if we’re giving something back to Galápagos—something that was taken long ago more than 3,000 individuals have been repatriated Each one plays a vital role in reviving the ecosystem—disturbing the soil and promoting native plant growth that supports other species those iguanas are once again playing their ecological role managing vegetation and supporting the food chain Saving Galápagos reptiles is more than a win for biodiversity—it’s about protecting the health of entire ecosystems Without these “ecological engineers,” natural balance begins to break down decades of hard work and local knowledge could be lost we are seeing signs of hope: reptiles once on the brink of extinction are walking their home islands again One of the most emblematic cases is the Española giant tortoise whose population has grown from just 15 individuals to over 2,300 today To safeguard these gains and prepare for what lies ahead Science and technology are changing the way we protect life in Galápagos. Today we use drones, satellite sensors, GPS trackers—even forensic analysis—to monitor species, better understand threats, and stop the illegal wildlife trade we’ve achieved something that once seemed impossible: breeding tortoises with close genetic ties to extinct lineages in preparation for their reintroduction on islands like Floreana and soon we introduced Española tortoises—morphologically and genetically the closest native species—to reestablish the crucial balance that large herbivores provide to the ecosystem These tools allow us to act with greater precision and we saw an opportunity to change the future of these islands and human pressure aren’t distant threats—they’re urgent calls to action we risk losing everything we’ve worked so hard to reclaim The insights gained over the past 40 years compel us to act decisively Safeguarding Galápagos for the centuries to come requires visionary leadership today At Galápagos Conservancy and we call on you to join us in this crucial work ensuring its wonders endure for generations to come Galápagos Conservancy donors are the driving force behind our efforts to conserve this magical place Join the fight to save it by becoming a member Follow Galápagos Conservancy on social media to get the latest conservation updates and alerts in real time Inc.® is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with EIN Tax ID # 13-3281486 Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law in your country A pair of Western Santa Cruz Galápagos tortoises who are estimated to be around a century old have become parents for the first time at the Philadelphia Zoo The arrival of four hatchlings to "Mommy" and "Abrazzo" is a "first" in the zoo's 150-year-old history contributing to the population of a critically endangered species who has lived at the zoo for nearly 93 years is seen as one of the most "genetically valuable Galapagos tortoises" in the Association of Zoos and Aquarium's Species Survival Plan She laid 16 eggs in November and four have hatched since then "This is a monumental achievement for our animal care team that worked diligently to provide the right conditions for Mommy to lay her eggs and for the eggs to incubate and successfully hatch," said Lauren Augustine the zoo's director of herpetology and birds "This successful outcome comes from years of hard work studying animal behavior and providing top-level care." The hatchlings will make their public debut later this month coinciding with the anniversary of Mommy's arrival at the zoo there were only 44 Western Santa Cruz Galápagos tortoises in the U.S "Philadelphia Zoo's vision is that those hatchlings will be a part of a thriving population of Galápagos tortoises on our healthy planet 100 years from now," Philadelphia Zoo CEO Jo-Elle Mogerman said the director of the Saint Louis Zoo Institute for Conservation Medicine said that while the birth of the hatchlings may not have a significant direct impact on the total population of the species the fanfare they are getting could educate the public and spark interest "And I think that's amazing to think about." The population of this tortoise species began to decline in the early 1800s when sailors and pirates hunting for sperm whales used the tortoises as a food source Deem's husband and an assistant biology professor at Saint Louis University but it's really only one lifetime of Galápagos tortoises," Blake said "Some of the tortoises on Santa Cruz Island today were alive when [Abraham] Lincoln was born but it's not in the lifetime of a tortoise." Although Western Santa Cruz tortoises are still facing threats such as habitat loss and invasive species Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Foundation have been vital to their conservation efforts estimating their numbers can be challenging hatchlings often stay hidden to avoid overheating or being eaten by predators The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies the Western Santa Cruz tortoises as critically endangered estimating approximately 3,400 tortoises remained as of 2010 there are about 17,000 Galapagos tortoises left Galapagos tortoises are herbivores native to the Galapagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador. Female tortoises typically lay up to 20 billiard-ball-sized eggs at a time, according to the Philadelphia Zoo.  The temperature during incubation determines the hatchlings' sex — eggs incubated at 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit or lower produce female tortoises while temperatures above 85.1 degrees produce males It takes the eggs four to eight months to hatch Males can eventually weigh 500 pounds on average Become an NPR sponsor hadn’t been seen on Floreana Island in the Galápagos since 1835 That changed recently when researchers monitoring birds on Floreana recorded the rail at three different locations These new sightings after 190 years are likely the result of efforts to eradicate invasive species on the island The Galápagos rail (Laterallus spilonota) is a largely flightless bird and as such is particularly vulnerable to predation The bird is found on several of the Galápagos islands where Darwin developed his theory of natural selection the rail wasn’t seen again after Darwin’s initial visit Invasive species like rats and cats that can eat bird eggs and adults were “Potentially some of the species like the rodents came with pirates, with some of the people that settled on the island, and even potentially when Darwin came,” Paula Castaño, native species manager with the NGO Island Conservation Invasive species on Floreana have caused the extirpation of many native species including several bird species and giant tortoises To improve conditions so native animals can return a team including Island Conservation and the Charles Darwin Foundation began a campaign to eradicate rats using toxic chemicals  Castaño said they took special care to protect native species that might be at risk of exposure to the poison especially birds of prey that could eat poisoned rats to mitigate risk to the Galápagos short-eared owl (Asio flammeus galapagoensis) “part of the of the population was brought in captivity and once the island is ready for that species to come back we will be releasing that population again,” Castaño said They also worked with the local community on a campaign to encourage people to keep pet cats inside Domestic cats are thought to be the single biggest nonnatural killer of birds worldwide Residents of the island have been supportive of the eradication program and excited to see the Galápagos rail once more “I was really moved when they told me it had been seen and I have also seen it myself now,” longtime resident Claudio Cruz told Mongabay in an email other birds that we once thought were lost will start to reappear again,” Cruz added The project coordinators are actively monitoring 12 different native species to see if they return to the island now that both rats and cats have largely been removed It’s possible a small population of Galápagos rails may have always been present on Floreana but unnoticed until their population grew once invasives were removed They’re strong swimmers but don’t fly well so “Nature has a way to amaze us all the time,” she said Banner image of a Galapagos rail courtesy of Island Conservation The “fortress conservation” model is under pressure in East Africa as protected areas become battlegrounds over history and global efforts to halt biodiversity loss Mongabay’s Special Issue goes beyond the region’s world-renowned safaris to examine how rural communities and governments are reckoning with conservation’s colonial origins and trying to forge a path forward […] A visit with evolutionary biologists Peter and Rosemary Grant This past fall I sat down with evolutionary biologists Peter and Rosemary Grant to talk about their new memoirs The three of us hadn’t had a long conversation for quite a while—not since they published Forty Years of Evolution I had heard a little about their extraordinary work they spent months camped out in the Galapagos Archipelago on an impossibly bleak speck of rock called Daphne Major the birds that helped lead him to his theory of evolution by natural selection the Grants had discovered that they could watch Darwin’s process in action In the first pages of the On the Origin of Species Darwin argues that evolution by natural selection goes on all the time the action is so geologically slow that you would need “the lapse of ages” to see it happen The Grants have witnessed an amazing amount of action—including the origin of a new species Peter and Rosemary were already famous within their field but they were virtually unknown outside it I lurked around the Princeton biology department where they taught I think the Grants both felt a certain amount of relief when my book But I knew we were going to be OK when they invited my wife and me to the backyard wedding of their older daughter So now it was a sentimental journey to visit them once again still as charming and almost as vigorous as ever although Rosemary had to interject now and then to help Peter with his hearing I miss key words,” he said.) The house looked unchanged too No sign anywhere of all the awards that have been showered on them in the past 30 years they were so focused on the finches that they didn’t seem to realize that their own lives might be interesting I’ll never forget the day I asked Peter to talk about his childhood that as a little boy in the English countryside he’d once tried to catch a blue butterfly by hand “But you seem to have all the time in the world.” where Rosemary put out a pot of tea and a tray of McVitie’s biscuits Jonathan: I want to start with the memoirs Because what one writes goes off into the public realm “I’m so looking forward to reading your book.” Rosemary: I had a peculiar feeling when I was writing about my childhood I found that I was spelling everything in the English way It was almost as though I had completely gone back and let you carry on in a second—I had a very different way of thinking about my childhood which was that I was an observer of a little boy running around Rosemary grew up in the coastal village of Arnside “Throughout my childhood,” she writes in her memoir “horses were used to plow the fields and deliver milk and coal … In the 1930s she loved roaming the countryside hunting for fossils and watching all the waterbirds (“turnstones she trailed around after the family gardener weren’t all of the cabbages in the same row exactly alike Rosemary: I kept asking Jeremiah—such a wonderful name—why was there so much variation it’s all due to the environment.” He showed me how things grow differently in the sun and in the shade And then my father also answering it by saying and I have to take this into account when I’m giving people medication.” So I was fascinated with this problem of variation I remember playing a game at home with my brothers why don’t you read Darwin’s Origin of Species So I went all the way into Kendall on the bus to get it from the library we’ll go and see a pigeon breeder.” And then pigeons became fascinating because the breeder had his pouter pigeons and fantails and tumblers and all the things that Darwin had talked about And what really blew my mind away was that pigeons had been used to take messages to the front lines in the war My parents were always very good when we asked questions—not just explaining things simply the whole education process was geared to you getting married You learned how to look after a house and look after a family Peter was born in a suburb of South London who was the ‘wronged party,’” he writes in his memoir he was sent out to the countryside to escape the London Blitz He fell in love with nature in a nearby park and down in a pit in front of the school The pit had been formed by a bomb dropped by a German plane early in the war That was where Peter chased that blue butterfly—in The Dell Many child evacuees from that time felt abandoned by their parents “the feeling and memory have been lost in the mists of time.” Birds and flowers became bright spots during years so bleak that he hardly talked about them until he reached the age of 60 Peter: I’m really intrigued by the fact that I just absolutely worshipped nature right from being knee high to a grasshopper—yeah out in the country—they were inside when I was outside looking at swallows flying around and looking where the birds were nesting and wondering if I could climb the trees to get there My father was actually a little bit scared in the countryside My mother never had any feeling for the countryside and neither of them had any influence in showing me plants or identifying a butterfly I didn’t get it from any of the teachers at this school to look at flowers and admire their pretty petals identify butterflies and try to catch them Rosemary had to struggle fiercely to get a good college education she made it to the University of Edinburgh a world authority on quantitative genetics the study of variation in animals and plants where Darwin had studied more than a century before The two of them met as graduate students in 1960 two young biologists at the University of British Columbia “Those skis are too small for you,” Rosemary said The next year they were married in Rosemary’s village “I heard this morning that the DNA code has been cracked.” The newlyweds spent part of their honeymoon in New York City measuring bird specimens in the American Museum of Natural History which adds yet another decade to one of the most remarkable long-term projects in the history of science I asked the Grants to do a very quick summary of the highlights of their research Peter: Number one is the discovery that evolution occurs and is study-able within our time Number two is the discovery that hybridization and backcrossing but “hybridization and backcrossing” will be Greek to non-specialists Peter: Put into different language: Species A breeds with Species B which is a cactus finch.] They were hybridizing at a very low frequency and then they bred with one or the other of the parental species a hybrid’s genes can flow back into one of the parental populations Rosemary: Often the reason they hybridize is that they learn the song of the other species They learn to sing while they are little birds in the nest the father dies and the young in the nest hear the song of a neighbor then the young birds will learn that species’ song Learning the wrong species’ song leads to hybridization which is a story of speciation by hybridization It’s a story that starts with the arrival of a mysterious bird on Daphne We thought it looked like a fortis but didn’t sing exactly like a fortis and it did not have exactly the same proportions either a genomic study revealed that this bird was not a fortis Rosemary: It was a pure conirostris from Española an island far away in the southeast part of the archipelago Peter: This Big Bird bred with fortis on Daphne the offspring were breeding amongst themselves and not with fortis anymore They were behaving essentially as a separate species Rosemary: We followed them for three more generations So they were completely separate from all the other species on the island Big Bird had brought his song over with him and they were different in size and different in beak shape how important is hybridization in the origin of species Now that we have looked at the genetics of the whole group of Darwin’s finches we think this has probably happened quite frequently in the past We think now that these sorts of events have been winking in and out and sometimes leading off to a new species including everything from viruses to all animals The similarity is strange; but if you think of cancer in the colon and cancer in the lung the cancer is dividing in two very different ecosystems It’s like the birds multiplying on different islands with different ecologies So you have cancer cells in the lung and the colon and then they meet: They go through the blood system and fuse together The Grants retired from teaching at Princeton in 2008 and their last visit to Daphne was in 2019 For years now they’ve been fortunate to be able to continue the finch-work from home collaborating with a stellar team of genomicists at Uppsala University in Sweden to learn whatever they can learn from the DNA of Darwin’s finches Swedish geneticist Leif Andersson and his team in Uppsala sequence the whole genome of a finch from the DNA samples that Peter and Rosemary supply The sequencing machines determine the nucleotides of each and every chromosome throughout their length Then Andersson and his colleagues can compare the chromosomes of two individual birds point by point to find places where they differ and where they are the same They might compare and contrast two fortis “It’s like holding up two strings side by side and seeing where they match and where they don’t,” Peter says They tell us where the species differ most.” I asked Peter and Rosemary for a brief summary of the work they’ve done with Leif Andersson Peter: Our association with Leif started in 2012 with a small paper about color polymorphism in the beaks of the finches Genomics has revealed a great deal of finch history: that is and how the pattern of relatedness unfolded through time We found good reason for thinking there are more than the 14 species that we’d thought were there I’m being sidetracked by a mockingbird over there Rosemary: The breakthrough was getting blood we had taken blood samples from every finch that we had measured since 1988 So one of the things we now know is that the whole radiation of the finches is really quite young; it’s between 1 and just over 1 million years old there is a burst of radiation about 250,000 years ago Peter: You get this sudden burst of radiation This was a time of great climatic disturbance in Earth history It’s a time when there’s a big oscillation twice over: from full glacial conditions to full interglacial conditions and back again We’re familiar with the Last Glacial Maximum about 120,000 years ago at this time of great environmental upheaval we think that maybe conditions favored—in ways that we can only guess—the splitting of lineages into more species The fact is that seven out of the 18 species of Darwin’s finches originated at that time These studies also told us that hybridization which we have been studying in contemporary time One of the early branches of the finch family tree is genetically similar to other species that were formed later in ways that can’t be explained just by common inheritance natural selection acted not only at the phenotypic level—that is on the measurements of the beaks—but at the genotypic level as well The genomics work matched absolutely exactly what we’d shown in the field It’s wonderful to see the genetic underpinning of what we had seen in the field we’d love to go back to the island and find out what has happened since we were there The Grants had much more to say about genomics the genes that shape birds’ beaks and human faces the genomics work has revealed that Darwin’s finches are not really finches at all Officially they are now classified as tanagers their most famous relative is the Scarlet Tanager singing a song that is sometimes described as sounding like “a robin with a bad cold.” I asked a question that I’d first asked the Grants back in the 1990s Is there any sign that climate change is now disrupting the course of evolution in the Galapagos Islands Peter told me that there are changes in the Pacific but the signal has not yet been detected on land mostly because the archipelago lies right at the equator Peter: Someday somebody will be able to put together a large amount of data and say we’re just beginning to see some effect.” But it’s very hard to predict what will happen—other than that the islands will be changed maybe there will be a signal in the terrestrial environment as well Lead photo: Peter and Rosemary Grant on Daphne Major in 1991 the only way the Grants could write to the outside world was by handing a letter to a passing fisherman unraveled by the very brightest living thinkers You’ve read your 2 free articles this month Access unlimited ad-free stories like this one sign up for the free Nautilus newsletter: science and culture for people who love beautiful writing A scene from Disneynature's SEA LIONS OF THE GALPAGOS these animals evolved in biological isolation a new species naturally reached the Galápagos only about once every 10,000 years an average of one new species has been arriving every year The island endemics of Galápagos are highly vulnerable to invasive species because they evolved in isolation with few natural predators or competitors making them poorly adapted to resist new perils the introduction of these species threatens the very survival of many native wildlife species From goats that have devastated giant tortoise habitats to fire ants and feral cats depredating native wildlife invasive species pose one of the greatest threats to the fragile ecosystems of Galápagos stripping native vegetation and severely reducing the giant tortoises’ source of food Impacts were so severe that on some islands entire tortoise populations were nearly wiped-out Thanks to successful goat eradication programs led by the Galápagos National Park Directorate allowing tortoises to reclaim their natural habitat aggressive fire ants attack bird nestlings and tortoise hatchlings and their eradication is notoriously difficult Galápagos Conservancy has supported the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency’s efforts to minimize fire ant impacts on native wildlife Feral cats pose an extreme risk to several endemic species including the pink iguana (Conolophus marthae) this iguana is on the brink of extinction due to predation of its young by introduced cats we have initiated focused efforts to help protect pink iguanas from cats the invasive blackberry has become an ecological menace This aggressive plant overtakes native flora altering entire ecosystems across multiple islands Its rapid expansion hinders forest regeneration and limits food availability for native species It also presents a physical barrier to giant tortoises moving about their habitat Controlling the spread of blackberry is critical to preserving the unique landscapes and biodiversity of the Galápagos Galápagos Conservancy has supported the Galápagos Biosecurity Agency’s efforts Our work has included enhancing laboratory capabilities thereby enabling more efficient detection and monitoring and a more rapid response to new biosecurity threats By strengthening prevention and control measures we aim to minimize the impact of invasive species and ensure the long-term protection of the archipelago’s biodiversity Tackling invasive species is a complex challenge that requires collaboration among conservation groups we play a key role in supporting and amplifying conservation efforts working alongside partners to safeguard native ecosystems through the following critical actions: we can ensure that this ecological marvel continues to inspire and thrive for generations to come Your involvement can help protect this one-of-a-kind ecosystem By joining the fight against invasive species you are actively restoring island habitats and safeguarding endangered wildlife Please join us in protecting one of the planet’s last true natural wonders Give now to support our invasive species control programs lab members study species unique to the archipelago but with relevance to the larger ecosystem an archipelago so unique that it helped shape the foundations of modern biology doesn’t end with its breathtaking landscapes and iconic wildlife The research conducted there is making waves far beyond its shores UNC-Chapel Hill researchers Esteban Agudo, Isabel Silva, Savannah Ryburn and Salomé Jaramillo Gil spend several months a year in the Galapagos collecting marine life data. They are also members of the Bruno Lab, led by John F. Bruno, Chi Omega Distinguished Professor of Biology in the biology department in the UNC College of Arts and Sciences and the Galapagos Science Center Silva and her team conducted daily fishing trips from San Cristóbal Island returning to the Galapagos Science Center at the end of each day and went further afield on a five-day research excursion to collect fish fecal samples off Fernandina Island Silva’s research focuses on understanding the critical role of ocean temperature in shaping the diets of various reef fish species which have unfortunately become scarce in many reefs today These long-lived fish play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by grazing and regulating algae abundance Ryburn has pioneered a nonlethal method to study shark diets specifically the juvenile scalloped hammerhead and blacktip By analyzing the DNA collected from shark fecal matter she can pinpoint exactly what species of fishes and crustaceans these sharks are eating Using nonlethal swabs to collect fecal matter is a game-changer in the world of marine research allowing scientists to study the diets of marine animals without harming them Jaramillo Gil is diving into the movements of the Galapagos’ most iconic predator: the scalloped hammerhead shark Through a collaboration with GSC researcher Alex Hearn and his team Jaramillo Gil is analyzing data collected from 24 sharks tagged in the Galapagos Marine Reserve she’s uncovering how environmental factors like sea surface temperature influence how sharks navigate their habitats This research is crucial for understanding the factors driving sharks’ spatial behaviors and habitat preferences Estaban Agudo and Salome Jaramillo in the Bruno lab Agudo’s work combines empirical data collection and theoretical modeling to predict how warming oceans will impact marine organisms’ diets and feeding patterns He specializes in cold-blooded species whose metabolism is directly tied to water temperature and they need to eat more to sustain themselves While these snails traditionally eat more in colder months they are eating far less as the water warms This shift is a response to rising temperatures that have surpassed their tolerance levels Instead of adjusting to the new conditions which means they are not accumulating enough energy to reproduce Agudo’s research sheds light on how temperature tolerance is not just a matter of survival but a critical factor in the future of marine ecosystems Silva and the team conducted daily fishing trips from San Cristóbal Island each of these exceptional researchers brings that wealth of information back to Chapel Hill to analyze Jaramillo Gil says being on Carolina’s campus offers valuable perks such as “access to an extensive library of academic literature and opportunities to exchange ideas with other researchers gaining inspiration from their current projects.” Whether they’re refining methods for DNA analysis analyzing satellite data from shark tags or running ecological models the Bruno Lab is where fieldwork meets advanced science — and the results are making a real impact on marine conservation The dean of the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy talks about her research The Well compiled all the details you need before attending UNC-Chapel Hill’s May 10 graduation The Well newsletter updates Tar Heels on UNC-Chapel Hill’s top stories NC Children’s will be North Carolina’s first freestanding hospital dedicated to caring for kids The Carolina sophomore shares her life through her poems Heather Wasser focuses her work on safe infant feeding a concern after the storm hit western North Carolina Neha Varrier did CPR on a patient until help arrived nearly a thousand Tar Heels got help from fellow students through this free Learning Center program On February 12, 1832, Ecuador officially annexed the Galápagos Islands ushering in an era that would shape the archipelago’s political This pivotal moment in Ecuadorian history marked a political milestone and initiated a long process of protection and conservation of one of the world’s most treasured natural sanctuaries renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity and global scientific significance After gaining independence from Gran Colombia in 1830 Ecuador sought to solidify its territorial sovereignty a distinguished military and political leader was instrumental in leading the expedition that secured the annexation of the Galápagos Islands to the newly established Republic of Ecuador His strategic vision and leadership enabled Ecuadorian authorities to recognize and assert control of this extraordinary territory It was President Juan José Flores who, upon receiving reports from General Villamil, issued the formal decree on February 12, 1832, that officially integrated the Galápagos Islands into Ecuadorian territory This act marked the beginning of a historic relationship between Ecuador and this extraordinary archipelago Shortly after the annexation, Ecuador established a penal colony on Isabela Island marking the first organized human settlement in the Galápagos was part of an effort to populate the islands this human presence laid the groundwork for future settlements and the eventual colonization of the islands and marked the start of a complex interaction between humans and the natural environment of Galápagos the Galápagos Islands have attracted global interest due to their strategic location and unique wildlife the United States established a military base to protect the eastern Pacific underscoring the geopolitical significance of the archipelago that international connection remains vital the Galápagos has become a symbol of environmental stewardship inspiring nations around the world to unite in protecting its unique ecosystems for future generations The story of the Galápagos is not just about its annexation; it is a testament to a global community committed to its preservation Once viewed as a desolate and inhospitable land the islands have evolved into one of the world’s most treasured natural sanctuaries While challenges like invasive species and climate change persist recognize and champion the profound natural legacy of this extraordinary place we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to protecting the Galápagos for future generations Preserving this unique paradise is not just a local responsibility—it is a shared global mission that unites us all in safeguarding its natural wonders Thank you for being part of this story and for supporting the conservation of Galápagos To learn more about our work and how you can help protect Galápagos, visit Galápagos Conservancy The Galápagos Islands are a biodiversity treasure trove, home to unique species found nowhere else on earth, including the iconic giant tortoises. Over three centuries, these majestic creatures were driven to the brink of extinction. Today, they are making a remarkable recovery, thanks in large part to the dedicated efforts of Galápagos Tortoise breeding centers These centers are at the heart of one of the most successful endangered species rewilding efforts ever undertaken Since the discovery of the Galápagos 500 years ago the archipelago’s endemic giant tortoises have faced drastic environmental changes including severe threats to their survival Unregulated hunting and the introduction of invasive mammals pushed three species into extinction and the populations of most of the remaining 12 species to dangerously low numbers and the commitment of dedicated institutions and scientists the giant tortoises of Galápagos are being given a second chance To understand the vital work being done by the GNPD and Galápagos Conservancy one must first understand the depth of the crisis that prompted the creation of the breeding centers scientists were sounding the alarm: giant tortoise populations had been devastated by centuries of human exploitation and the spread of invasive species The breeding centers follow a carefully designed process to maximize hatching success and survival to support population recovery: This program has saved several species from extinction, including the Española Island tortoise (Chelonoidis hoodensis) only 14 Española tortoises remained in the wild and another was discovered in captivity in California Thanks to the concerted efforts of the breeding program these 15 tortoises produced more than 2,000 offspring in captivity These have all been successfully reintroduced to Española Island where the population is now recovering on its own The conservation of Galápagos giant tortoises depends not only on dedicated human efforts but also on cutting-edge science and technology that guides every stage of their recovery the breeding centers have integrated numerous scientific advancements which have significantly improved incubation success rates One groundbreaking innovation was the introduction of automated incubators allow for precise temperature control and reliable incubation ensuring optimal conditions for tortoise embryo development and survival these incubators have achieved an impressive 90% hatching success rate—a major breakthrough in tortoise conservation Boosting hatching rates greatly increases numbers of tortoises and speeds their recovery Scientific research has also played a key role in revealing how temperature influences the sex of hatchlings breeding programs have refined incubation protocols to favor the production of females a crucial strategy for accelerating population recovery and ensuring long-term stability in the wild successful tortoise reintroduction requires rigorous ecological assessments experts carefully evaluate environmental conditions to determine the optimal habitat and best window for return—specifically after rains have created ample forage for the young tortoises field studies have been instrumental in identifying the optimal size and age for reintroduction maximizing survival rates while refining conservation strategies and resource allocation We are continually refining our methods for monitoring tortoise populations in their natural habitat to better measure the success of these conservation efforts Employing these methods ensures that every released tortoise has the highest chance of thriving in the wild reinforcing the long-term success of population restoration programs While there has been considerable progress in giant tortoise restoration efforts significant challenges remain in ensuring their long-term survival Invasive species continue to pose a major threat on certain Galápagos islands: black rats and feral pigs raid nests severely impacting population recovery; feral dogs prey on juveniles in some locations and fire ants threaten hatchlings in others; cattle also damage tortoise habitat and nests; some invasive plants making them impenetrable even to adult tortoises Climate change presents an additional risk Even small temperature fluctuations in nesting sites can disrupt egg development these shifts also generate conditions more favorable to invasive species Understanding these environmental changes is essential for developing adaptive conservation strategies to safeguard tortoise populations our commitment to protecting giant tortoises is unwavering The continuous modernization of breeding centers and ongoing restoration of natural habitats is essential for securing a thriving future for these gentle giants Every tortoise that returns to its native island represents not just hope and resilience but a tangible step towards restoring a vibrant ecosystem Your support directly fuels our efforts to protect these emblematic species Donate today to become a part of their remarkable comeback story we can ensure that giant tortoises continue to roam the Galápagos Islands for generations to come Your Ads Privacy ChoicesIMDb Mommy, who has been with the zoo since 1932, was paired with Abrazzo, estimated to be 96 who was transferred to Philadelphia in December 2020 from Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in South Carolina The transfer was part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) breeding program Although the first three clutches produced eggs that weren’t viable the 16 eggs she laid in November 2024 have so far resulted in four hatchlings The sex of tortoise hatchlings is influenced by temperature so the zoo incubated eight eggs below 28° Celsius (82.4° Fahrenheit) to produce males and the other eggs above 29.5°C (85.1°F) to produce females The team say they hope there will be more baby tortoises since eggs can take four to eight months to hatch most of them are threatened by human-wildlife conflict Galápagos tortoise SSP coordinator and studbook keeper Ashley Ortega said in a statement that the species survival plan program is “thrilled to help Philadelphia Zoo welcome Mommy’s offspring.” “This feat is even more incredible considering that Mommy is the oldest first-time producing female of her species in any U.S there were only 44 individual Western Santa Cruz Galápagos tortoises in all U.S The last of the species to hatch in an AZA zoo was in 2019 “So these newest additions represent a new genetic lineage and some much-needed help to the species population,” Ortega said She said they’re keen to replicate at other AZA zoos what Philadelphia Zoo accomplished which she described as “seemingly impossible.” which currently weigh around 70-80 grams (2.5-2.8 ounces) will be presented to the public on April 23 coinciding with Mommy’s 93rd anniversary at the zoo A groundbreaking genetic study has revealed that the giant tortoises of the Galápagos Archipelago, previously grouped as a single species, are, in fact, 13 genetically distinct species. Supported by Galápagos Conservancy this discovery marks a significant milestone in understanding the archipelago’s unique biodiversity and highlights the need for updated taxonomic information to guide tortoise conservation Using advanced genetic sequencing technologies, researchers at Yale University identified clear genetic differences among tortoise populations across the islands of Galápagos Using techniques such as whole-genome analysis and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) the researchers revealed a level of genetic diversity far greater than previously documented These findings underscore the importance of revisiting earlier taxonomic models which treated tortoises from different islands as a single species This discovery challenges the one-species model adopted in 2021 by the IUCN Tortoise Taxonomy Working Group The study demonstrates that Galápagos giant tortoises represent 13 distinct genetic lineages shared evolutionary origin for all populations Unique environmental conditions and geographic isolation on each island have driven these populations to adapt independently resulting in the emergence of separate species While some divergences are relatively recent the differences are significant enough to warrant reclassification of tortoises on most islands as distinct species more detailed understanding of the archipelago’s biodiversity renowned for its exceptional speciation driven by adaptation to isolated environments Galápagos Conservancy has been instrumental in enabling this breakthrough by supporting this cutting-edge research. In collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate we work to safeguard these species through targeted conservation programs Our commitment to research has facilitated access to critical resources allowing international scientific teams to conduct detailed genetic studies like this one we lead monitoring and protection efforts to shield tortoise populations from threats such as poaching This new understanding of the genetic diversity among Galápagos giant tortoises has profound implications for tortoise conservation Most tortoises populations are now distinct enough to require conservation strategies tailored to them These efforts include protecting specific habitats and carefully managing population interactions to prevent unintentional hybridization The findings highlight the need to modernize conservation approaches aligning them to protect the unique genetic characteristics of each population Galápagos Conservancy is leading this critical shift combining cutting-edge science with focused conservation programs to protect these endangered species The genetic data and analyses from this study have been made available to the global scientific community encouraging collaboration and further research This openness ensures that the findings will have a lasting impact driving continued progress in the conservation of Galápagos giant tortoises The confirmation of 13 distinct species represents a landmark achievement for science and conservation we remain deeply committed to protecting these remarkable species we strive to ensure that future generations can continue to experience and appreciate the extraordinary natural heritage of Galápagos Gaughran, S. J., Gray, R., Ochoa, A., Jones, M., Fusco, N., Miller, J. M., Poulakakis, N., de Queiroz, K., Caccone, A., & Jensen, E. L. (2024). Whole-genome sequencing confirms multiple species of Galapagos giant tortoises. Evolution, XX(XX), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1093/evolut/qpae164 At Galápagos Conservancy, we proudly support the conservation efforts led by the Galápagos National Park Directorate, particularly the Resilient Corals Project in the Central-South Bioregion of the Galápagos Marine Reserve This initiative aims to protect one of the most vulnerable ecosystems in the reserve: coral reefs These reefs are critical to marine health and are of great interest to both scientists and visitors climate change and other challenges have severely impacted these ecosystems The remaining corals in these areas not only tell the ecological story of the Galápagos but also provide important insights into resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity often referred to as “the lungs of the ocean,” are crucial to marine ecosystems They create habitats for a diverse range of species and help form natural barriers that protect coastal areas from erosion As scientists continue to monitor these reefs they have discovered that some coral species are remarkably resilient Despite stressors such as rising water temperatures and bleaching certain corals are adapting and finding ways to survive and thrive This adaptability is essential for their survival and offers valuable lessons on how ecosystems may cope with future challenges A key objective of the project is to assess the health of coral fragments collected from Española Thanks to research expeditions and fieldwork we have updated the map of coral remnants within the reserve these fragments are being carefully cultivated in rope and mesh “beds” to protect them from harmful light and other environmental factors it will be essential to manage their growth The participation of local volunteers has been essential to this project have demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting coral reef cleanup and monitoring activities Their involvement not only helps maintain the health of these ecosystems but also inspires the next generation to become advocates for the environment Another important goal of our project is to identify the most resilient coral species We are collecting data on how coral colonies respond to changes in temperature which is crucial for the conservation of Galápagos corals and for global restoration strategies we organized a coral cleaning event at the Bahía Academia coral nursery where we are caring for 185 coral fragments from eight different species This task is essential because algae growth tends to increase during the colder months we provide the necessary space for the corals to grow allowing us to transplant them later to marine areas that need restoration This collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate is vital for restoring biodiversity and protecting the unique marine treasures of the Galápagos we remain fully committed to supporting conservation efforts that preserve the region’s rich marine life Galapagos said the planned business separation will leave the legacy company free to focus on developing cell therapies for cancer An accompanying corporate restructuring will shave Galapagos’s headcount by 40% The transaction will result in two separate publicly traded companies enabling the company to devote more resources to cell therapy that have commercialized these treatments made by engineering a patient’s immune cells into targeted cancer fighters But the multi-step manufacturing process can take a month or more; beyond actual manufacturing time it takes time to transport cells to and from the lab where the engineering is done Galapagos aims to get cell therapies to patients more quickly by bringing manufacturing time down to about a week whose appropriately named FasTCAR technology is designed to offer next-day turnaround times a key question is whether the new structure enables SpinCo to be better at business development than Galapagos was business development has been stymied by the emphasis on developing CAR T-cell therapies Galapagos faced challenges finding good deals and its longstanding collaboration with Gilead came with limitations such as requiring the company to give away half of a partnered asset after Phase 2 for a fixed $150 million “We eagerly await whether the new structure better allows for BD (business development),” Kurshid said “The challenging issue of the [Gilead] collaboration structure remains but a new team in place to oversee BD should definitely help the prospects here.” The company also said it will look to partner GLPG3667 a small molecule TYK2 inhibitor in mid-stage development for dermatomyositis and systemic lupus erythematosus The corporate shakeup will result in the layoff of about 300 workers — about 40% of the company’s headcount Most of the job cuts will happen in Belgium and Galapagos will also shutter a site in France After the reorganization and the business separation the company expects to have about €500 million (about $515.6 million) which it expects will support the company into at least 2028 “The planned reorganization is a difficult but necessary step but one that will position Galapagos for sustainable growth and value creation and for future success in its renewed focus on cell therapies,” Galapagos CEO Paul Stoffels said in a prepared statement “Gaining full global development and commercialization rights from Gilead to our robust discovery and development pipeline supports our commitment to executing our strategy for accelerated growth and value creation.” that company will apply to list its shares on the Euronext exchange Galapagos expects the business separation will be complete by mid-2025 Gilead will have a 25% ownership stake in each company; two Gilead directors will step down from the Galapagos board and two Gilead directors will join SpinCo’s board The 2019 agreement that gave Gilead the right to license and develop programs outside of Europe will now apply solely to SpinCo Discover what tools are essential for efficient safe surgical extractions in today’s health care landscape This webinar will explore how a banking platform approach could be the resource for your company The layout of your phlebotomy station can significantly impact efficiency A well-thought-out setup ensures that every tool is within reach minimizing unnecessary movement and reducing patient wait times Every year on January 24, the world celebrates the International Day of Education, a day devoted to emphasizing the vital role of education as a fundamental human right and its power to shape a sustainable future for everyone. At Galápagos Conservancy we use this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to education as a driving force for change particularly in the protection and conservation of the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Archipelago As we enter the ninth year of our Education for Sustainability Program, launched in 2016 in collaboration with Ecuador’s Ministry of Education we have provided teachers in Galápagos with the training and resources they need to incorporate issues of sustainability into their lessons for children and young adults Our goal has been to foster a deep sense of environmental responsibility essential to ensuring the long-term conservation of this delicate natural environment 2024 has been a milestone year for our educational initiatives We reaffirmed our commitment to providing quality education by embedding sustainability into the core of our work Teachers in Galápagos were equipped with innovative thanks to collaboration with local and national experts These professionals worked closely with educators across the archipelago and promoting project-based learning approaches tailored to the local context Our educational advisor, Jenny Macías highlights the importance of adapting to local realities: “Our goal is to empower teachers to integrate sustainability meaningfully into their curricula and adopt active teaching methods that meet the unique needs of the local environment.” We also aim to strengthen the participation and leadership of children and youth encouraging them to take an active role in building sustainable communities By fostering schools as learning communities and families to address local challenges through sustainable On International Day of Education but also its transformative power in advancing conservation and sustainability we understand that education focused on sustainability is critical to preserving our unique ecosystems and fostering a harmonious relationship between local communities and their natural environment Through our educational programs we aim to inspire a new generation of leaders who are committed to protecting and conserving Galápagos’ natural heritage with the vision of extending this legacy beyond the islands Education is a powerful tool for driving positive change encouraging the integration of sustainability into all aspects of life we will continue to prioritize education as the cornerstone of a sustainable future for generations to come The new company will work to build a pipeline via dealmaking while Galapagos carries on its current work in cancer cell therapy Galapagos’ American depositary receipts have plummeted in recent years trading around $29 apiece early Wednesday after hitting $274 in February 2020 the challenge of finding good deals and the requirements of the Gilead collaboration have weighed on the company’s ability to succeed in business development Leerink Partners analyst Faisal Khurshid wrote in a note to investors “Whether this new structure will better enable BD at SpinCo is the key question here,” Khurshid wrote While the split is a “reasonable strategy to unlock value,” some of the same fundamental issues that hampered Galapagos will continue to apply Gilead will still have option rights to medicines developed by the new entity though Gilead committed to good faith negotiations to amend the original deal in a way that will “achieve positive value for all of SpinCo’s shareholders,” Galapagos said Gilead also has the right to name directors to the board of the new company while the company’s directors on the Galapagos board will step down Galapagos will focus on cell therapy and discontinue work on small molecule programs seeking partners for assets including an experimental autoimmune disorder treatment in Phase 2 testing The company also plans another round of layoffs affecting about 300 positions or 40% of its employees A site in France will close and “meaningful reductions” will occur among Belgian staff Get the free daily newsletter read by industry experts Only five biotechs went public in the first quarter — and none have done so since early February — extending an IPO slump that's lasted over three years hope research on ion channels will bring them new drugs and big business — much like it has done for Vertex The free newsletter covering the top industry headlines A recent discovery of active nests of Galápagos petrels (Pterodroma phaeopygia) on Isabela Island has sparked renewed optimism for the conservation of this endemic and critically endangered species This breakthrough represents significant progress in protecting one of the archipelago’s most iconic seabirds whose breeding habitat has faced numerous ongoing threats for years During three expeditions conducted in June and September, (2024), led by experts from Galápagos Conservancy and rangers from Galápagos National Park the team explored potential petrel nesting sites on the flanks of Sierra Negra volcano encompassing both protected areas and agricultural lands Throughout the expedition, part of a larger project funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) to improve nesting habitats for Galápagos petrels team members thoroughly searched new nesting sites and also explored areas where nests had been previously recorded The team further assessed the threats facing the petrel population on the island deep burrows into the dense volcanic soils in the upper reaches of the islands where they construct simple nests in which they lay their eggs and rear their young They are generally well-protected in their burrows but face threats from rats that eat and exotic plants that can smother the petrel’s nesting burrows the team discovered 11 nests within the National Park three of which showed recent signs of activity several burrows discovered on local farms that previously had shown signs of activity were confirmed to hold petrel chicks marking a significant advancement for the species’ recovery in this area Until now no photographs have previously documented petrel chicks on Isabela Island which represent a population genetically distinct from the other four nesting populations that occur in Galápagos New nests were also found on other farms in the agricultural zone with clear indications of their recent occupation These discoveries are crucial for expanding our understanding of the distribution and status of petrels on Isabela Island where knowledge about these birds remains limited a researcher from Galápagos Conservancy and leader of this expedition noting that the discovery of chicks in the nests brings hope for the species’ recovery “While there is still much work to be done these results confirm that we are on the right path to securing the future of petrels on Isabela Island,” she emphasized One of the primary challenges identified during the expedition was the presence of invasive species the team detected a high density of invasive plants were located in dense vegetation that was extremely difficult to access active nests found on local farms were situated in more open areas where grazing by cattle and horses tend to keep the guava and blackberry plants from invading creating a situation where private lands may play an important role in conserving the Galápagos petrel on Isabela Island we will continue our rigorous monitoring of active petrel nests working closely with the Galápagos National Park Directorate to implement strategies to control invasive species we will soon conduct new expeditions to explore other potential nesting areas on Isabela Island thereby expanding our understanding of this seabird’s behavior and needs we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the conservation of Galápagos petrels and the protection of the ecosystems essential for their survival Did you know that art can be a powerful tool in protecting endangered species? In the Galápagos Islands, this idea is brought to life through BiblioLab, a local initiative backed by Galápagos Conservancy’s conservation grants This creative program blends art and education to inspire young Galápagos residents with a strong sense of environmental responsibility Through techniques like watercolor painting, recycled-material collage, and muralism, BiblioLab turns art into a dynamic tool for promoting biodiversity conservation. The program focuses on species from the IUCN Red List giving participants the opportunity to connect with Galápagos’ most iconic wildlife such as the scalloped hammerhead shark and the candelabra cactus these activities promote critical skills such as problem-solving and teamwork—essential qualities for shaping future conservation leaders BiblioLab’s educational approach extends beyond art integrating reading and interactive learning as core elements of the program These activities explore essential topics like self-care The initiative engages participants in discussions about responsible interactions with nature nurturing the full potential of young learners The project team has demonstrated remarkable commitment and ingenuity successfully conducting five workshops with Galápagos youth By creatively repurposing recycled materials and collaborating with the local community participants have created lasting tools for environmental education showing that impactful conservation initiatives can be both practical and inspiring Children not only learn about conservation but they also discover their own potential to create real change,” says Ivanova Álvarez Merino To date, BiblioLab has conducted over 47 activities, reaching nearly 400 children on Santa Cruz Island This initiative has evolved into a transformative space where art and education merge to inspire young minds to become active defenders of the environment At Galápagos Conservancy recognizing education as a powerful driver of change we can ensure the continuity of this program giving more children the opportunity to deepen their connection with nature and develop a lifelong commitment to conservation we can build a sustainable future for the Galápagos Islands where both nature and community can truly flourish we take pride in supporting scientific research and preserving the archipelago’s natural heritage we contributed three significant specimens to the Vertebrate Collection at the Charles Darwin Research Station As the largest repository of natural history specimens from the Galápagos Islands this collection houses over 135,000 specimens representing approximately 7,500 species The zoological collection serves as an invaluable resource for studying and conserving the region’s rich biodiversity These specimens will be preserved as part of the scientific collection highlighting the importance of physical records for the study and conservation of the unique reptiles of Galápagos The inclusion of these specimens significantly strengthens our knowledge of Galápagos biodiversity and creates new opportunities for long-term research Each specimen provides valuable data on morphological variation of these key species in the archipelago Our commitment to conservation is reinforced with every contribution that enhances scientific collections The integration of these specimens represents not only a step forward for research but also underscores the importance of institutional collaboration in protecting the unique species of Galápagos The $600,000 will help fund citizen science projects and create more student field experiences The UNC Center for Galapagos Studies received $600,000 from Royal Caribbean Group to support research and learning initiatives, enabling the expansion of research projects, community outreach programs and student engagement. The center partners with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito to operate the Galapagos Science Center on San Cristobal Island, the only university science facility of its kind in the archipelago. Royal Caribbean Group operates Celebrity Cruises and Silversea ships in the region. A sample is collected for the Galapagos Barcode Project, which provides scientific training and employment to residents. (Courtesy of Galapagos Science Center) The gift will fund three Galapagos Science Center projects: Galapagos Barcode Project: When COVID halted tourism and left many locals without employment in 2020, this project was launched to provide scientific training and employment to residents. Participants collected thousands of plant, soil, water and animal samples for processing. The gift will provide $300,000 to help the project re-launch, expand and integrate with the Galapagos Science Center’s Biobank, which preserves the genetic resources of the region’s existing biodiversity. Field-experience support for students: The gift will provide $180,000 for field-experience support for students from UNC-Chapel Hill to study in the Galapagos. It will enable collaboration among undergraduates from both universities and the local community to work on research projects and receive training and mentorship. More students will be able to study in the Galapagos’ unique ecosystem and gain valuable research and global experience while advancing science and conservation efforts. “The people and vulnerable ecosystems of Galapagos will be the main beneficiaries of this funding because it supports human development through sustainable entrepreneurship and monitoring and protection of biodiversity in an area under human pressure,” said Carlos Mena, co-director of the Galapagos Science Center. UNC-Chapel Hill students and faculty participate in a field study project focused on nutrition. (Photo by Karina Vivanco) This contribution demonstrates Royal Caribbean Group’s continued commitment to their SEA the Future initiative, which drives the company’s efforts to sustain the planet, energize communities and accelerate innovation. “At Royal Caribbean Group, we deeply value the opportunity to support and celebrate the communities we visit,” said Gabriela Naranjo, vice president and regional director of the Galapagos, Royal Caribbean Group. “We are especially excited to contribute to the growth of local programs through the UNC Center for Galapagos Studies because we see how our shared passion to advance research and community outreach will inspire future generations.” The dean of the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy talks about her research, rural initiatives and leading the No. 1 pharmacy school in the nation.  The Well compiled all the details you need before attending UNC-Chapel Hill’s May 10 graduation. Want more Carolina news? The Well newsletter updates Tar Heels on UNC-Chapel Hill’s top stories, upcoming events and campus accolades, arriving in your inbox every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning. NC Children’s will be North Carolina’s first freestanding hospital dedicated to caring for kids. The Carolina sophomore shares her life through her poems, tours and activities on campus. Heather Wasser focuses her work on safe infant feeding, a concern after the storm hit western North Carolina. During a BIOL 119 hospital shift, Neha Varrier did CPR on a patient until help arrived. This fall, nearly a thousand Tar Heels got help from fellow students through this free Learning Center program. EcuadorChevron Galápagos IslandsChevron Chris SchalkxSave this storySaveSave this storySaveAll products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links Thirty seconds. That's all the time it took for me to come eye to beady eye with my first Galápagoan critter after stepping onto the tarmac of the Galápagos Seymour Ecological Airport with scaly skin slouched around its bones and a grimacing mug only a mother could love A prickly pear cactus on Santa Cruz island “We've always been interested in gaining a foothold in the Galápagos,” he told me “Given the unique differences between each island you need to visit a broad area in order to understand its diversity Guests can wake up at a new destination each day.” a newly launched expedition yacht by South Africa–based eco-tourism operator andBeyond I could imagine how perplexed Darwin must've been because these islands birthed some real freaks of nature: On our climb we passed boobies with bright red or electric blue feet On Española Island I nearly trampled a tangle of marine iguanas an albatross as large as a kite nearly crash-landed at my feet (Such face-plants account for a microscopic percentage of albatross mortalities Sánchez told me later.) There were Martian landscapes on Bartolomé Island where Galápagos penguins and sea lions joined us on our snorkeling trip The creatures became stranger still in the highlands of Santa Cruz where we picnicked among Galápagos giant tortoises that grazed on leaves and moved at the pace of a toothless centenarian Ecuadorian baskets adorn the wall of the Galápagos Explorer I wondered how much they'd seen their home turf change over their century-long lifespan. While 97% of the Galápagos have been under National Park protection since 1959 the archipelago isn't without threats It takes only one stowaway rat or crop-destroying snail to wipe out an entire species threatens the scalloped hammerhead shark and pink land iguana For the conservation-minded andBeyond Unlike the 100-passenger ships we saw passing by the Galápagos Explorer holds just 12 guests spread over six spacious cabins that are adorned with vintage-map prints and scientific wildlife illustrations This allows a guide-to-guest ratio of one to six is the lowest among all ships that sail here The Galápagos Explorer holds just 12 guests “We'll complete a full needs analysis of the area and communities we impact,” Kent said Projects underway include the Galápagos Whale Shark Project; the Pescado Azul Women's Association which promotes artisanal fishing around the archipelago; and a South American extension of andBeyond's maritime conservation program Kent said that the company had also found an area on Santa Cruz for indigenous tree planting and offset the ship's carbon footprint A running joke about the crew members is that all of them are endemic who whipped up empanadas and seco de pollo chicken stew from largely local ingredients the cheerful bartender who was quick with a post-hot-tub piña colada A pair of nazca boobies on Española Island I saw a familiar face in the lounge: A land iguana had sauntered in as if it had a boarding pass It scrambled over the rattan sofa next to mine before disappearing into the ladies' washroom defiant to the end: a vivid reminder of the perpetual tug-of-war between man and nature—and a perfect Galápagoan goodbye Want to be the first to know? Sign up to our newsletters for travel inspiration and tips A Guide to Korčula, Croatia Why Everyone Will Be Going to Osaka in 2025 A London Local’s Melting-Pot Itinerary for Food This New Eco-Cruise Through the Galápagos Takes Passengers On a Safari at Sea up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse We understand that time is the greatest luxury which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world By The human biologist has been interim director of the center since 2023 and is also co-director of the Galapagos Science Center With over a decade of experience working in the Galápagos Islands, Amanda Thompson has contributed to strengthening the relationship between UNC-Chapel Hill’s Center for Galapagos Studies and the Galapagos Science Center — a facility on San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos that is supported by a partnership between the Universidad San Francisco de Quito and Carolina Thompson is the Thomas Willis Lambeth Distinguished Chair in Public Policy in the Department of Anthropology, a professor in the Department of Nutrition, and a faculty fellow at the Carolina Population Center. Trained in human biology and nutritional epidemiology, her work focuses on pathways linking early life social and physical environments to long-term health across a range of national and international settings She is particularly interested in how early life nutrition and environmental exposures shape obesity and disease risk which aim to help build healthy ecosystems on a changing planet Thompson is also committed to providing seed grants to junior faculty at Carolina who want to pursue new collaborative projects on the islands She will continue guiding the growth of CGS with her vision for an interdisciplinary community-engaged research center focused on social marine and terrestrial systems as well as ecosystem health and island sustainability Thompson received her undergraduate degree from Harvard University and her MPH in Global Health/Nutrition and PhD in Anthropology from Emory University She held a postdoctoral position at the Gillings School of Global Public Health and the Carolina Population Center before joining the anthropology department in 2007 She is the recipient of the 2014 Human Biology Association Michael A Little Early Career Award and the 2019 Norman Kretchmer Memorial Award in Nutrition and Development from the American Society for Nutrition Thompson’s appointment as CGS director is effective as of February 1 © 2025 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Small expedition cruises are, almost by definition, a group activity. That's particularly true in the Galapagos, where ships can’t hold more than 100 passengers. I would be sailing on a particularly small ship, though: the 32-guest Quasar Evolution one of two small ships operated by Ecuadorian-owned Quasar Expeditions – an even harder place to sink into my solo travel instincts A lifetime of avoiding groups is hard to put aside I was once a queer child – and knew it at an early age It was the '80s and '90s and my worst fears were groups of kids and teens even visiting the kids I called friends – all were a minefield of potential or real harm I'm very out and have plenty of true friends now but I still have a reflexive aversion to groups I've developed tactics to manage this: I can recognize settings in which I need to be engaged but I also need an equal or greater amount of time to disengage My concerns sailing on Quasar Evolution tracked with all of that I knew the sea lions and albatross and blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas would light a fire in me But what if I wanted to spend my nights in silence poring over my field guides and identifying the species I'd seen What if my need to decompress roared to life on Quasar Evolution What if another passenger took issue with my identity as an openly queer man Quasar Evolution small group on Fernandina Island lava fields in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta)After a blissful night wandering alone in Quito I boarded the flight to the Galapagos Islands Determined to preserve my solitude as long as possible I jammed noise-canceling headphones into my ears held my book and set my face to its most hardened glare I'd long ago learned how to signal "I do not want to talk." I removed my headphones for a brief moment to use the restroom The author piqued my seatmate's interest The group – like the gaping maw of a surfacing hungry whale from those old seafaring myths – was swallowing me whole My hunch about the ship’s close quarters proved true once we boarded even in a region that caps ships at 100 passengers The repurposed fishing vessel holds just 32 people in 16 compact rooms Quasar Evolution off of Bachas Beach in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta) noted that intimacy as a major draw when booking their Evolution journey "We never had a desire to cruise before this so it just made sense for us to explore the smaller boat options," said Larry and Barbara Brown "Quasar Evolution fit what we were looking for in size the quality of the meals delivered and the ease of the excursions offered."  A golden-hued land iguana on a Quasar shore excursion on Isabela Island (Photo: Kyle Valenta) Evolution's classic silhouette and original hardware stand out handsomely in a region flush with cookie-cutter yachts and catamarans From the moment we landed at Baltra Island's airport to helping each other board tenders to the ship at port But I also tried to keep in mind that we were all here for the same reason: to experience this incredibly cool ship in this mind-blowing place Blue-footed boobies on Española Island aren't the only wildlife you'll find on a small ship cruise (Photo: Kyle Valenta)I pulled out my chair for our first dinner in groups of eight I went through the motions until they stopped being motions and were instead authentic But that night our table talked so much that some of us still had half-full plates of food as the crew nudged us on to dessert People were eager to share stories: where we'd been who we are – the fascinating back stories running the gamut: researchers who worked in Uganda during its Civil War; lesbians who lived through the first few post-Stonewall decades; somatic therapists specializing in biofeedback; women with decades of sobriety under their belts; teachers and educators of all kinds; professors who researched the trans and nonbinary communites in Polynesia The conversations were give and take and filled with genuine enthusiasm eschewing the one-upsmanship that's too common among travelers easy community-building and interpersonal generosity might just be an unofficial part of the Quasar brand A group returning on their panga to Quasar Evolution after an excursion (Photo: Cathy Kim) was one of my fellow passengers on Quasar Evolution She first sailed on the ship in October 2022 with her then 9-year-old son Willett They returned to the ship this time with Lee's parents "Even though the group size was very different – there were only seven guests on our first trip – it really didn’t feel that different [this time]," Lee told me "Willett and I both preferred the larger group It made the social part of the trip more fun I think a trip like this attracts a certain kind of person – we all seemed to be like-minded souls." A Quasar Evolution small group excursion on Isabela Island (Photo: Amy and David Leifer) Quasar Evolution looks unlike others in the region – even that superficial detail attracts travelers who aren't looking for a typical package tour When coupled with a destination underpinned by science and conservation you end up among other travelers who crave something different I went to bed that first night with an ease I couldn't imagine when departing my Quito hotel The only thing keeping me awake that night were the rocky seas of the Pacific Ocean as we navigated from Baltra to Isabela Island – and the giant tortoises that awaited us Denise Carbon embracing the experience on Fernandina Island (Photo: Kyle Valenta Joy to the point of tears is common while traveling – after all you're likely encountering something you've longed to see your entire life Having those feelings around strangers – even ones you've quickly bonded with – isn't always easy to handle Bay Area resident Denise Carbon is a special needs expert and owner of Special Advantage which provides one-on-one therapy and coaching for parents and families She sailed with Quasar in part to develop travel programs and experiences for these families she had her own moments in which those overwhelming feelings emerged A young Galapagos giant tortoise on Isabela Island (Photo: Kyle Valenta) Denise and I lagged behind our group during our first walk on Isabela Island We were sidetracked by Galapagos giant tortoises When we emerged on the beach and rejoined the huddle one passenger was rubbing her back while the other put their arm around her shoulders held and witnessed by such a loving group of strangers," Denise recounted to me those around me leaned in and validated my feelings and shared their own as well." A sea lion pup on Española Island in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta) I had my own emotional turn at Sullivan Bay on Santiago Island black lava fields stretching out from the edges of the beach making quick graceful turns around my legs That lump we all know so well appeared in my throat I wrote a heartfelt letter to the editor pleading with humanity to save the seals That was certainly on my mind as I looked back and saw my fellow passengers waving their arms overhead in excitement for me or hopping in place and cheering like Denise was Lee's son came into the water and we shared the moment together When I emerged on dry land there were hugs; people told me how exciting it was to witness my moment – a cycle of grace and care that repeated itself countless times on the trip but these people also created a safe place to experience these feelings publicly – not something I've typically relished in groups As Denise put it to me: "It takes both courage and willingness to be vulnerable in moments when you experience overwhelming emotions – and it also takes a level of safety I believe I felt safe with this group right away." Galapagos guide Lola Vilacreses leading an excursion on Isabela Island (Photo: Kyle Valenta) Today's fleets of tricked-out expedition ships have mitigated almost all historical danger of visiting far-flung destinations but any expedition cruise does still carry a small level of risk Major population centers and services are often far from your port or destination or have to board your dinghies and Zodiacs as seas suddenly turn rough How an expedition cruise line advises their passengers about difficulty levels of excursions – and how they handle emergencies – is telling Heath Ball was caught off guard by a wave boarding the dinghy back to the ship but was up in two seconds – I didn't have time to laugh." Guides and fellow passengers quickly scooped her up she had plenty of time to laugh and get the rest of us laughing Nazca booby with the cliffs and rocks of Española Island in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta) uneven path to see the molting albatross chicks on Española Island "I broke my right wrist," she recounted the following morning over our final breakfast 'Maybe you just sprained it.' And I lifted it up and we all went It was a pain that kind of threw you over the edge "They came running," she said about passengers and crew Lee Moore – a former EMT and currently a clinical pharmacist – was directly behind her who was wearing a wrist stabilization brace due to her own recently healed broken wrist "Lee was looking for a way to stabilize it," Sarah recalled "When Ellen took off her stabilization brace Even Lee's son was totally totally helpful And then here came the team from the ship running I mean complete with a defibrillator and a backboard – they had it all I wouldn't have gotten the kind of care I got." A penguin standing seaside on Bartoleme Island in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta)I came to the Galapagos for science and wildlife and landscapes but I also came with baggage from a year not without its trials – a stalled surrogacy process; worries about in-laws and friends in war zones; a freak multi-month illness; the unclear future of queer people's human rights in the United States; turmoil with lifelong friendships I didn't expect these deeper issues to come up One evening during a sunset hike on Isabela Island I descended with Denise and her friend Diane all of us vibrating from the view across the coastal lava flats and Darwin Volcano while I'd become deeply estranged from one of my longest friends – a period of time I wasn't sure I was ready to end Right before my trip to the Galapagos that friend received a tough medical diagnosis I'd been wrestling with guilt over my continued hesitation to meaningfully engage with her again I don't know what I expected to hear from Denise and Diane in return "Some friends come into our life for a reason And some for a lifetime," Denise said to me While neither told me how to handle this delicate situation the mantra has given me permission to honor some of my reticence rather than bury it under the obligations of guilt alone The steep path to the summit of Bartoleme Island in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta) Wrangling with human complexity was not off the table aboard Quasar Evolution it was a key feature of nearly every conversation I had There I was talking in the afternoon sun about gender identity in schools There I was mulling over end of life options and elder care There I was stripping off my wet suit listening to the story of the Michigan Women's Festival early years There I was hearing other queer people's journeys both toward and away from parenthood I soaked up these histories and perspectives We had created a context where vulnerability and empathy – and thus trust – were all around Groups everywhere: marine iguanas on Fernandina Island in the Galapagos (Photo: Kyle Valenta) I thought about something naturalist and Galapagos National Park guide Lola Villacreses told me on our last morning together "What makes Quasar special is that we are able to talk with everybody," she offered noting that she only works as a guide with Quasar "We are sharing moments with guests onboard We are with them all the time and become a big family after one week The author and Galapagos guide Lola Vilacreses (Photo: Kyle Valenta) I sat in Plaza San Francisco under a purple dusk sky sipping a warm colada morada and eating a guagua de pan Lola recommended I try these local specialties I was flooded with a gratitude for human connection that I often struggle to find acknowledging to myself that it only happened by offering myself as I was to the people around me And it worked: Quasar Evolution became a circuit of people listening and supporting and encouraging each other Fellow passengers have met up with one another Passengers shared videos and pictures that another passenger edited into a video shared with everyone Quasar Evolution crew and passengers on our last night (Photo: Kyle Valenta) the glow started to fade a bit – as glows all do – and in that plaza in Quito giving my solitary side its equal importance in the ways I've learned to navigate the world The trick is to not get lost in that space – easier now with the Galapagos and a ship called Quasar Evolution in the back of my mind if I need to remember a way out Conservation in the Galápagos Islands depends on the adoption of innovative technologies In this edition of our series on science and technology for conservation we explore how drones are enhancing efforts to protect the fragile ecosystems of the archipelago By combining aerial perspectives with advanced tools drones enable more efficient and precise monitoring supporting the protection of endemic species and the study of hard-to-reach habitats Drones are transforming how we monitor ecosystems in the vast and remote regions of Galápagos. Galápagos Conservancy with authorization from the Galápagos National Park Directorate employs drone technologies to advance several conservation initiatives Thanks to drones’ ability to fly over inaccessible areas—such as Isabela Island’s active volcanoes or Fernandina Island’s rugged coastlines—they provide detailed real-time views of ecosystems without disturbing species or habitats Equipped with high-resolution cameras and GPS systems drones capture precise imagery that helps researchers assess environmental conditions These capabilities are coupled with other new technologies such as camera traps operating at ground-level drones complement these ground-level tools offering a more comprehensive understanding of ecosystems tracking wildlife across vast or hard-to-reach areas and detecting changes in the landscape that might otherwise go unnoticed.” Drones are invaluable for monitoring terrestrial ecosystems in Galápagos They capture high-quality images of remote landscapes and key species They are particularly useful in challenging areas like Wolf Volcano on Isabela Island—home a unique species of giant tortoises as well as the pink iguana—where drones play a crucial role and support efforts to protect these iconic species The drones’ versatility allows them to operate at different altitudes and in varied weather conditions capturing high-resolution images that reveal critical information about vegetation drones are instrumental in surveying large areas and detecting invasive species or other threats allowing for swift preventive action to protect native biodiversity drones will remain a vital tool for conservation in Galápagos By enabling more precise ecosystem studies and supporting rapid adaptation to environmental changes drones contribute to informed decision-making and effective conservation strategies With the ongoing support of our donors and partners Galápagos Conservancy will continue harnessing drone technology and other innovations to protect the archipelago’s unique biodiversity ensuring its legacy for future generations Revolutionizing Galápagos conservation: Satellite trackers help protect giant tortoises by providing real-time data Trail cameras provide vital insights into Galápagos wildlife helping protect endangered species and monitor invasive threats Research finds yellow warblers near busy roads turn aggressive when traffic drowns out their territorial songs If the rumble of trucks, honk of car horns and bustle of the roads leaves you irritable, you are not alone – researchers say the sound of traffic can leave birds in a rage, too. Researchers have found male Galápagos yellow warblers that live near busy roads on the islands behave more aggressively when they hear songs from another male if they occur in the presence of traffic sounds. The researchers say the findings might be down to the birds realising that their own songs, which act as a warning towards intruders to their territory, could be masked by the sound of the traffic. “Communication usually is in lieu of physical aggression but, if the communication is not possible because of noise, then they might actually engage in risky behaviours that would lead to a physical fight,” said Dr Çağlar Akçay, a co-author of the research from Anglia Ruskin University. Read moreWriting in the journal Animal Behaviour the team reported how they studied the behaviour of 38 males on two islands in the Galápagos the team played two recorded soundtracks on different days One soundtrack only featured the song of another male Galápagos yellow warbler while the other additionally featured traffic sounds The team found males that lived near busy roads behaved more aggressively in the latter case approaching and flying around the speaker in search of the intruder Akçay said that while one possibility was that they got closer to make themselves heard not all males sang as they approached – suggesting they were ready for a dust-up “If there was an actual bird instead of a speaker and that could result in a physical fight,” he said males that lived away from roads showed less aggression when traffic noises were present – possibly because they were scared by the unfamiliar sound The scientists said males living on the more densely populated Santa Cruz Island sang for longer when traffic sounds were present while the reverse was true for those on the more sparsely populated Floreana Island Free weekly newsletterThe planet's most important stories Get all the week's environment news - the good males slightly increased the minimum frequencies of their songs when traffic sounds were played – possibly to make it easier for others to hear them while an increase in peak frequency was only seen in males that lived away from traffic the team suggests that could be because the birds that lived near roads were already singing at the optimum peak frequency Akçay said it was possible birds that were better able to deal with traffic noise settled near roads but it could be that birds adapt as a result of living near traffic because there are very few people on Floreana “We have to think about noise pollution even in places like Galápagos and the impact of noise pollution on the unique species there.” Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker By: Kristin Brooks Galapagos NV plans to separate into two entities: a newly to be formed company (to be named later) which would focus on building a pipeline of innovative medicines through transformational transactions which would continue to advance its cell therapies in oncology The reorganization of its business will result in cutting approximately 300 positions across the organization in Europe representing 40% of the company’s employees This reorganization would result in reductions in staff in Belgium and the site in France is expected to close Galapagos would continue to operate from its main hubs in Princeton and Pittsburgh in the U.S. As part of the planned separation, Galapagos and Gilead Sciences, Inc. have agreed to amend their 10-year global Option License and Collaboration Agreement entered into in 2019 whereby Galapagos will gain full global development and commercialization rights to its pipeline subject to payment of single digit royalties to Gilead on sales of certain products the spinoff will be capitalized with approximately €2.45 billion of Galapagos’ current cash It will be focused on building a pipeline with robust clinical proof-of-concept in oncology and/or virology through strategic business development transactions Gilead will hold approximately 25% of the outstanding shares in both Galapagos and the spinoff Galapagos will focus on the potential of its decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform in oncology and will continue to advance its cell therapy pipeline has demonstrated an encouraging efficacy and safety profile in patients with relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma supporting the feasibility of Galapagos’ decentralized cell therapy manufacturing platform in delivering fresh fit cells with a vein-to-vein time of seven days Galapagos plans to discontinue its small molecule discovery programs and seek potential partners to take over these assets currently in Phase 2 for systemic lupus erythematosus and other potential auto-immune indications Galapagos expects its normalized annual cash burn to be between €175 million and €225 million Galapagos expects to have approximately €500 million in cash “The proposed separation aims to help investors more easily assess the merits and future prospects of the two distinct businesses allowing them to invest in each company based on their own strategy and a clearer understanding of each business’ unique characteristics and value propositions,” said Thad Huston Use of this constitutes acceptance of our privacy policy The material on this site may not be reproduced except with the prior written permission of Rodman Media The contest received enthusiastic participation from children and young students who showcased their creativity through colorful and imaginative artwork their drawings conveyed heartfelt messages of love for Galápagos and its giant tortoises Each art piece reflected not only the talent of the the children but also expressed their commitment to conserving these remarkable creatures—an undeniable symbol of the archipelago four students were recognized for the originality of their messages and the artistic quality of their work Yazú Proaño and Luis Quijosaca from Floreana Island along with Alejandro Morocho and Daniela Quituña from Isabela Island which demonstrated both exceptional creativity and a deep understanding of the giant tortoises and the need to protect them The winning artworks highlighted that giant tortoises are not only among the most iconic and fascinating species of Galápagos but also a recognizable symbol of the archipelago and a major attraction for thousands of visitors each year the students emphasized that protecting the tortoises is crucial to preserving biodiversity and maintaining the ecological integrity of the islands This contest underscored the importance of engaging children and young people in activities that strengthen their connection with nature and their commitment to conserving Galápagos. Our educational advisor, Jenny Macías highlighted the positive impact of the initiative emphasizing its role in fostering values of respect and environmental responsibility from an early age “These educational activities not only encourage creativity but also build an emotional connection with Galápagos’ natural wonders,” she stated we are proud to have organized this initiative The dedication demonstrated by the students through their drawings reaffirms the importance of investing in initiatives that inspire a love for Galápagos and the protection of its unique species This contest serves as a powerful reminder that environmental education plays a crucial role in shaping the future guardians of Galápagos who will be responsible for preserving these natural treasures for generations to come The $600,000 gift will help fund citizen science projects and create more student field experiences The UNC Center for Galapagos Studies received a $600,000 contribution from Royal Caribbean Group to support research and learning initiatives enabling the expansion of research projects community outreach programs and student engagement The UNC Center for Galapagos Studies partners with the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) to operate the Galapagos Science Center It is the only university science facility of its kind in the archipelago Royal Caribbean Group connects its guests to the Galapagos Islands and its vibrant communities on immersive itineraries aboard its Celebrity Cruises and Silversea ships in the region Dedicated to delivering a lifetime of vacations for its guests the company is committed to celebrating and supporting the communities that make up this natural marvel “I am proud Royal Caribbean Group gets to play a part in advancing UNC Center for Galapagos Studies’ vision to expand local programs and make transformative experiences available to more dreamers and innovators,” said Jason Liberty president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group “UNC has a long history of providing the world with pioneers and passionate thinkers I take pride in announcing this gift that will help fund more student field experiences innovative research projects and training opportunities for residents.”  “The people and vulnerable ecosystems of Galapagos will be the main beneficiaries of this funding because it supports human development through sustainable entrepreneurship and monitoring and protection of biodiversity in an area under human pressure,” said Carlos Mena co-director of the Galapagos Science Center This contribution demonstrates Royal Caribbean Group’s continued commitment to their SEA the Future initiative which drives the company’s efforts to sustain the planet energize communities and accelerate innovation we deeply value the opportunity to support and celebrate the communities we visit,” said Gabriela Naranjo vice president and regional director of the Galapagos “We are especially excited to contribute to the growth of local programs through the UNC Center for Galapagos Studies because we see how our shared passion to advance research and community outreach will inspire future generations.”  “This funding provides a fantastic opportunity to expand the work of the Center for Galapagos Studies and the Galapagos Science Center allowing more Carolina students to have a transformative research experience alongside students from USFQ and the Galapagos and bolster the important research we’re doing to preserve the biodiversity of this iconic location,” said Amanda Thompson director of the UNC Center for Galapagos Studies and co-director of the Galapagos Science Center “This support is vital for training the next generation of scientists and protecting the island ecosystem.”  Puerto Ayora: The Heart of the Galapagos Islands and their role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution increasing tourism and urban expansion threaten this delicate balance As visitor numbers rise and infrastructure demands grow the islands face significant challenges in preserving their unique biodiversity while accommodating the needs of both locals and tourists and habitat disruption have intensified concerns over sustainable development in this ecologically sensitive region The Challenge is to develop a sustainable eco-hotel in the Galapagos and alignment with local ecological and cultural values Sustainability & Environment : Repurpose unfinished buildings using local materials (volcanic rock bamboo) and passive design (natural ventilation rainwater harvesting) and sustainable waste systems (composting greywater recycling).Architecture & Structure : Ensure modular flexible designs for future expansion with lightweight constructionand climate-responsive facades blending with the Galapagos landscape.Tourism & Community : Promote eco-tourism while encouraging sustainable mobility (bike paths Download the information related to this competition here. This competition was submitted by an ArchDaily user. If you'd like to submit a competition, call for submissions or other architectural 'opportunity' please use our "Submit a Competition" form The views expressed in announcements submitted by ArchDaily users do not necessarily reflect the views of ArchDaily You'll now receive updates based on what you follow Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors If you have done all of this and still can't find the email some Morehead State University students leveled up their research skills In keeping with its mission of giving graduates a competitive edge seven students explored the Pacific islands of Ecuador as part of an Education Abroad opportunity.  Activities included hiking Volcán Wolf a 5,610-foot-high volcano that is the highest point in the Galápagos They also studied under Biology & Chemistry Chair and Professor Dr Charles Lydeard for his Natural History and Evolution of Galápagos Fauna class.   “It’s one thing to learn about the natural history and evolution of the Galápagos fauna in the classroom,” Lydeard said “But to develop your critical thinking skills by actually going to the islands and seeing the iconic creatures on the islands that Charles Darwin wrote about in ‘The Voyage of the Beagle’ and later formulated his views of ‘transmutation’ or evolution was something students faculty and I will never forget.”   students presented their findings to classmates and Lydeard sharing their insights from hands-on experience.  "This study abroad trip was one of the most exciting eye-opening experiences of my life,” said Jack McFarland a junior from Louisville majoring in veterinary science. “It was incredible being able to observe such an abundance of native animals in possibly the most beautiful place I have ever been in my life."  MSU offers various faculty-led Education Abroad courses Up next is a trip to Stockholm-Helsinki and Prague-Munich during spring break These opportunities are offered through MSU’s Level UP.  Level UP: Experience Your Future is a unique program that builds in-demand skills and written communication through service learning To learn more about the program, contact Dr. Jason M. Adkins, Education Abroad Coordinator, at jm.adkins@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2044.  we understand that conserving the unique biodiversity of the islands requires engaging with the entire community Many local communities in Galápagos possess a priceless resource — a deep generational understanding of their environment Their local ecological knowledge provides a nuanced view of the ecosystems and species that call the islands home Our team at Galápagos Conservancy is based mostly in the islands and not only understands the realities of the area but also shares a strong commitment to protecting this unique place We are deeply connected to the challenges and opportunities we face in conserving Galápagos By blending local insight with modern scientific approaches we’ve managed to develop more effective and sustainable conservation strategies Conservation cannot be imposed; it must engage those who live within the ecosystems we seek to protect. With around 30,000 residents relying on nature for their livelihoods—whether through tourism, fishing, or agriculture—Galápagos Conservancy promotes a community-centered approach By involving local people in protecting their environment we foster sustainable practices that benefit both their daily lives and the ecosystems they depend on We believe that fostering a lasting conservation culture in Galápagos begins with empowering its residents. Our Sustainability Education Program works with all teachers in the islands This ensures that environmental stewardship becomes an integral part of every young person’s education in Galápagos particularly focusing on women and eco-innovators by providing grants that encourage sustainable thanks to the generous support of our donors we have funded conservation projects that engage communities in protecting the ecosystems of Galápagos This effort reflects our deep commitment to empowerment and sustainability demonstrating the tangible impact of working hand-in-hand with local communities We are confident that by empowering local communities and working together, we can secure a prosperous and sustainable future for the Galápagos and its inhabitants. By integrating environmental education, supporting local entrepreneurs and funding impactful conservation projects undertaken with and by community leaders we are building a strong network of environmental stewards As our general director, Dr. Washington Tapia puts it: “The success of our conservation work in Galápagos often depends on the commitment and collaboration of local communities By supporting the initiatives of those who live in this remarkable area we help protect the unique biodiversity of the archipelago while fostering a future where nature and communities thrive together.” This comprehensive approach strengthens the local communities’ commitment to protecting their environment and ensures the sustainable management of Galápagos’ natural resources benefiting both its people and its ecosystems Our experts make a significant difference. Walter Chimborazo is one of them Walter is a familiar and friendly face at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center on Santa Cruz Island where he works alongside park rangers to ensure the safety and well-being of thousands of young giant tortoises Walter’s days are a testament to his dedication: every Monday he prepares and distributes fresh greens to the hungry tortoises he cleans the tortoises’ corrals and ensures that the tortoises get enough sunlight to maintain healthy body temperatures and growth Walter works seven days a week to monitor eggs in incubators and adjust temperatures to ensure optimal development Walter is Godfather of thousands of these little gentle giants – the most rewarding aspect for him is witnessing the steady growth of each one firsthand Cristian’s dedication is visible at the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center on Isabela Island. Established in 1995 the center serves as an important sanctuary for the island’s threatened tortoises These improve the tortoises’ lives while allowing staff to provide more effective and less disruptive care demonstrating their renewed commitment to the tortoises’ well-being The story of Cristian Gil – another of our tortoise experts – is also an inspiring one He grew up on the flanks of Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela Island surrounded by the archipelago’s incredible biodiversity and witnessed firsthand the plight of the volcano’s giant tortoises whose population has collapsed from being its largest to now its smallest This passion for conserving his homeland inspired Cristian to pursue a degree in environmental science and eventually join our team at Galápagos Conservancy The human touch behind our thriving breeding centers exemplified by Walter’s dedication to Santa Cruz and Cristian’s commitment to Isabela is made possible by this successful collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate we can ensure that this success story continues It’s the power of working together that makes it all possible an iconic group of species that plays a key role in the dynamics of the archipelago’s terrestrial ecosystems These state-of-the-art devices provide essential data that informs our conservation and management efforts transforming our ability to both protect these majestic creatures and understand their natural history Satellite animal trackers have significantly changed how we monitor endangered species Compact (2×2 inches) and lightweight (7 ounces) these devices can be attached to the shells of adult tortoises without affecting their well-being The devices have a global positioning system (GPS) chip that records a tortoise’s position every six hours and then sends the coordinates via satellite enabling us to track tortoise movements in real time and gather detailed data on their behavior and migration patterns A prime example of how this technology has been applied in our conservation program is the case of Diego, the famous giant tortoise. Since his release back to the wild on Espanola Island in June 2020 after over 80 years in captivity the GPS tracker attached to Diego’s shell has enabled our scientists to monitor his adaptation and ensure his well-being without disturbing his natural activities Diego’s story exemplifies how satellite trackers deepen our understanding of the status and fate of individual animals This advanced technology optimizes monitoring by minimizing the need for our researcher’s physical presence in sensitive habitats, ensuring that the animals and their habitats remain undisturbed.  As environmental conditions shift, this technology not only aids in crafting evidence-based strategies for conservation but also allows for timely adjustments, ensuring that strategies remain robust, responsive, and effective. Satellite animal trackers have become essential tools in helping us understand the lives of giant tortoises living in the vast, remote and hard-to-reach areas that present enormous logistical obstacles to reach and perform on-the-ground monitoring. The isolated nature of these ecosystems demands ongoing effort and meticulous planning to ensure their protection. The future of conservation in the Galápagos depends on both the continued integration of advanced technologies and the strong support of our donors and supporters. Your commitment is crucial to protecting this unique archipelago and ensuring that the legacy of the Galápagos giant tortoises endures for generations to come. In our next article in the series, we will explore the benefits of using aerial drones to advance conservation in Galápagos. These devices are revolutionizing monitoring in hard-to-reach areas, offering new opportunities for the protection of the archipelago’s unique biodiversity. Drones are revolutionizing Galápagos conservation, enabling precise monitoring, protecting species, and studying remote ecosystems. Trail cameras provide vital insights into Galápagos wildlife, helping protect endangered species and monitor invasive threats. Galápagos Conservancy donors are the driving force behind our efforts to conserve this magical place. Join the fight to save it by becoming a member. Follow Galápagos Conservancy on social media to get the latest conservation updates and alerts in real time. Galápagos Conservancy, Inc.® is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with EIN Tax ID # 13-3281486. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law in your country. Food and Drug Administration's approval of its experimental rheumatoid arthritis treatment.($1 = 0.9678 euros)Reporting by Alban Kacher in Gdansk; editing by Milla Nissi Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab , opens new tab Browse an unrivalled portfolio of real-time and historical market data and insights from worldwide sources and experts. , opens new tabScreen for heightened risk individual and entities globally to help uncover hidden risks in business relationships and human networks. © 2025 Reuters. All rights reserved And there are also several ways to do these activities—so it’s important to strategize when to go in order to decide how to spend your time and money on your trip a company that has led culinary and adventure tours to Central and South America for more than 30 years “The Galapagos is truly a year-round destination and the best time to visit depends on the experience you are looking for,” Gillmore says “A traveler's goals play a factor in terms of experiences and if you want to go on a cruise or stay at a lodge.” we discuss with travel experts the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands and what to do to get the best of the destination The Galapagos is an outdoor destination—visitors are typically on boats, in the water, or hiking—so good weather is important. Luckily, because the archipelago is near the equator, the weather is almost always hot and sunny, although this means sometimes heat can be a problem, and sun protection is important There are rainy and dry seasons, but the differences between them are not drastic. “Late December through mid-May is the hot and sunny time of year; it’s also officially the rainy season Any rain you do encounter can be a welcome break from the intense heat,” Gillmore says “The moisture also brings color to the vegetation which is a nice addition to the island landscapes.” Both Gillmore and Damon name May as their preferred time in the Galapagos. “That’s when the water is warm, the vegetation colorful, and the skies start to cloud a bit to temper the heat of the sun,” Gillmore says. “May is nice for hiking and exploring the islands on foot also for calmer seas with warmer ocean temperatures that are good for swimming and snorkeling Green sea turtles are nesting and it’s a good time for snorkeling and diving,” Damon adds you’ll still be spending at least part of some days aboard a boat “Most tour operators in the Galapagos work with set pricing, which usually have surcharges for the holiday season,” says Damon. “Other than this, rates are usually the same throughout the year.” However, if you’re able to travel last-minute, Damon says it’s sometimes possible to find discounts a few weeks before departure but you likely won’t get a tailored itinerary or specific vessel the best deals are usually found in September brings more visitors to the warm and sunny Galapagos Since the Galapagos Islands are near the equator the weather is almost always warm and sunny Amazingly, wildlife sightings are not only possible but typical throughout the year in the Galapagos, including many of the only-in-the-Galapagos species many visitors come to spot. “There is constant wildlife activity,” says Damon The Galapagos has the highest concentration of endemic land species meaning animals and birds that you can only see in the Galapagos And visitors are generally able to get very close to the wildlife Damon adds that the cooler season is better for observing penguins and whales and is especially good for observing the blue-footed boobies’ mating displays One week is an ideal amount of time for exploring the Galapagos Seven nights on a boat will typically include visits to six to eight islands and because the Galapagos is “such an epic destination that is a bit of a trek to reach I don’t recommend fewer than five nights in total which can also be a combination of land and sea.” You may not realize it, but it is possible to visit the Galapagos without going on a cruise. When I visited in 2023, I stayed at Pikaia Lodge so not having to sleep on a ship was the right choice for me (Although I didn’t make it to the farther flung islands that take several days of sailing to reach.) A main difference is that Galapagos cruises offer structured itineraries that allow seeing more islands and visitor sites, says Damon: “Cruise ships are not required to travel back to the same location every night so they are able to reach islands located farther from the main population centers and, with that, entirely new ecosystems.” On the other hand, land-based trips give you a different experience “You’re more in control of what you see and where you go oftentimes allowing you to build your own itinerary as you see fit You also have more interaction with the local island culture on a land-based trip.” If giant land tortoises are on your list, consider spending some time on Santa Cruz Island. “While it’s possible to find giant tortoises in various locations around the archipelago, the best place to see them in the wild is in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island,” explains Gillmore. “Visit a reserve or stay at a lodge in tortoise territory to maximize your opportunities.” The Galapagos are mostly all about animals, all the time—whether on land or in the water. You’ll see animals in guided land hikes, on beaches, in the sky, and by snorkeling or diving in the water. A good guide will take you to known animal hangouts. But to be honest, almost anyone can stumble upon some giant land tortoises My highlights were snorkeling with Galapagos penguins and observing the mating dance of frigate birds “If you are hoping to travel over festive season plan to book a year or more in advance as those weeks fill very early,” Gillmore adds six to eight months should ensure your choice of accommodation.” It’s also important to note that independent exploration in Galapagos National Park—which encompasses 97% of the Galapagos archipelago—is prohibited So if you want to see the full breadth of wildlife plan on going on a tour with a naturalist guide (all of whom must be permanent residents of the Galapagos Islands) you’ll be relegated to the non-park areas of the human-populated islands of Santa Cruz which probably isn’t the reason you're coming to the archipelago Want to be the first to know? Sign up to our newsletters for travel inspiration and tips Stop Counting the Countries You Visit How Safe Is Flying Today The Best Places to See the Northern Lights Worldwide The Best Flights I've Booked With Points and Miles—And How You Can Too As Costa Rica works to create regulations for its “Bicentennial Marine Management Area,” Dr Sylvia Earle has offered her support to Turtle Island Restoration Network’s a new campaign push to encourage the Costa Rican government to include a no-fishing zone along the proposed Cocos-Galapagos Swimway The Swimway lies withing the larger 106,285.56 km2 Bicentennial Management area which is expected to have varying levels of protection and is likely to allow some kinds of fishing in some zones within in it The Cocos-Galapagos Swimway proposal, supported by hundreds of scientists and environmental organizations was first proposed years ago by Turtle Island and allies more than 10 years and officially became a Sylvia Earle – Mission Blue Hope Spot in 2020, read the press release more here In 2022, Ecuador announced a 60,000 square kilometers (23,166 square miles) expansion of the Galápagos Marine Reserve which includes a no-fishing zone most the Ecuadorean portion of the Swimway but to date Costa Rica has not acted on creating its side of a no-fishing swimway Sylvia Earle for lending her support and encouraging other scientists to sign on and are optimistic this new campaign will convince Costa Rica to do its part to make this superhighway for endangered sea turtles and sharks a reality Such an action is an important part of protection and recovery of species like the Pacific leatherback sea turtle and hammerhead sharks,” said Todd Steiner Founder of Turtle Island Restoration Network and the Cocos-Galapagos Swimway Mission Blue Hope Spot Champion Other individuals and organizations helping  at ther ourset to encourage scientists to become signatories of the  letter include: If you are a scientist and willing to sign on in support, please contact Elizabeth Purcell at elizabeth@tirn.net or fill out the form linked below. Stay up to date with the Cocos-Galapagos Swimway campaign with us on social media, you can dive into the issue and how to act by visiting the campaign webpage here Sign up here! A round-the-world endeavor to sustain the legacy of Charles Darwin brings his great-great-granddaughter to the archipelago to visit with Galapagos Science Center researchers on the pier at San Cristóbal Island in the Galápagos and a family of sea lions playfully swim together jumping in the air and providing free entertainment for tourists and locals alike and passengers will disembark from the two-hour As the ferry docks, a special passenger disembarks — Sarah Darwin, the British botanist, conservationist, author, and scientific researcher who is also the great-great-granddaughter of Charles Darwin It’s her first time returning to San Cristóbal in 24 years Though it’s been decades since Darwin —  a researcher at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin — has set foot on the archipelago, she’s found ways to stay involved in research there, like providing a welcome video for the World Summit on Island Sustainability reminiscent of the style of ship Darwin would have sailed on With plans to stop in the Galápagos in May 2024, Sarah Darwin took the opportunity to meet the crew of DARWIN200 at their stop in the islands to learn about current research conducted by the Galapagos Science Center (GSC) a joint effort between the UNC-Chapel Hill’s Center for Galapagos Studies and the Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) in Ecuador and a trip to Darwin’s Cove — where Charles Darwin landed during his travels One of the goals of the DARWIN200 project is to connect young global conservationists to inspiring research projects where they can study a threatened habitat or an animal or plant that Charles Darwin studied during his famous voyage USFQ researcher Pieter van ’t Hof and his team’s work is a perfect example of the action Sarah Darwin hopes to see  Van ’t Hof’s group teamed up with her and a DARWIN200 leader to search for endemic and introduced tomatoes similar to work Sarah did in the islands decades ago “The opportunity to have Sarah Darwin join the fieldwork days in Santa Cruz in search of these tomatoes in their natural habitats has been a cherished experience of our research team,” van ’t Hof says  “Knowing that Charles collected the Galápagos tomatoes for taxonomy purposes 200 years ago and that Sarah sampled them for genetic analyses 20 years ago discovering a new tomato species has given a special dimension to our 2024 expedition.” the group collected samples to study the microbial communities surrounding the roots and leaves of these tomatoes that help them to survive the harsh environment of the islands “Science builds upon earlier discoveries and keeps evolving and embracing technological advances,” van ’t Hof says “Being with Sarah on a common quest made us realize how important our scientific multidisciplinary collaborations are curiosity and spirit to discover will always remain.” Darwin’s next stop was touring GSC with Laboratories Manager Cristina Vintimilla where she learned about research projects exploring how humans and the environment intersect Darwin took particular interest in the Biobank project which preserves the genetic resources of existing biodiversity and provides opportunities to study different aspects of evolutionary biology USFQ researcher and professor Maria de Lourdes Torres was excited to reunite with Darwin and share specifics about the Biobank and the many projects in the Microbiology and Genetics Lab and we discovered that we were both working with the endemic tomatoes of Galápagos so it was a pleasure to meet her again and be able to talk about the importance of conserving these species and ecosystems,” de Lourdes Torres says “Sarah was delighted to learn about our biobank initiative and with her visit we strengthened our relationship for the good of science and education in these magical islands.” Darwin also learned more about GSC’s work with the local community including the many projects utilizing citizen science “Sarah’s visit served as a powerful motivator for all team members to continue their efforts towards the conservation and sustainability of the Galápagos Islands,” Vintimilla says Sarah emphasized the importance of our work with the local community through citizen science where everyone has the opportunity to feel involved and be a part of our research projects.” Darwin delivered an inspiring talk to over 100 guests including researchers She spoke about how nature was Charles Darwin’s inspiration and passion and how everyone should remember that all living things are related She emphasized the importance of forming local knowledge-based communities and praised GSC for its engagement with the people of San Cristóbal “It is incredibly important to listen to and learn the needs from local people so that we can all work together,” Darwin says “We need to imagine a future where all people are involved with protecting nature I’m not suggesting that we go back to nature but that we go forward with nature where all decisions we make as communities have nature at is heart.” The talk marked the concluding event for DARWIN200 before the vintage ship set sail for Rapa Nui retracing the voyage of Charles Darwin’s vessel But Sarah Darwin had more experiences awaiting her in the Galápagos Darwin experienced first-hand one of the many initiatives connecting the local community to science She joined the club locally known as Chicas con Agallas The Gills Club provides local girls aged 8-12 with an experiential adventure to learn about science Led by GSC researcher and Biobank Manager Diana Pazmiño Gills Club members visit local beaches while learning about the scientific method They do all this with local and international female scientists that also serve as role models “Having Sarah join our fieldtrip made the experience even more memorable,” Pazmiño says it is extremely important that the girls find inspiration from female scientists Sarah was kind enough to gift the club with a couple of her Galápagos field guides — which she contributed to the illustrations of the flora and fauna — and we used these straight away to identify birds and plants in Isla Lobos.” As Darwin’s busy 36 hours in the islands end, she makes a visit to Mirador Cerro Tijeretas the spot where her great-great-grandfather first landed on San Cristóbal it’s known by locals as the perfect place to swim and snorkel alongside curious sea lions and to watch playful frigate birds “The spot is like a postcard for humans respecting nature and coexisting beautifully,” Darwin says She takes out her copy of “On the Origin of Species,” and reads a passage aloud at the cove having been originally breathed into a few forms or into one,” she reads whilst this planet has gone cycling on according to the fixed law of gravity from so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been it is reminder that all living things —even generations apart — are not only connected “And of course there is nowhere in the world where evolution is more beautiful than the Galápagos Islands,” Darwin says