The Galapagos islands are famed for their unique plant and animal life. Several species of the islands' plants, birds, fish, and reptiles are not found elsewhere in the world. They include a species of flightless cormorant; the marine iguana, which feeds on seaweed; and the giant land tortoise, which is called galápago in Spanish. There are thousands of iguanas, a kind of giant lizard that feeds on cactus, as well as penguins, seals, sea lions, flamingos, and herons. There are also wild cattle, pigs, goats, and horses, the descendants of livestock brought by early settlers.
The famous British naturalist Charles Darwin studied the wildlife of the islands in 1835 during the voyage of the Beagle. His observations helped him formulate his theory of evolution.
The famous British naturalist Charles Darwin studied the wildlife of the islands in 1835 during the voyage of the Beagle. His observations helped him formulate his theory of evolution.
Galapagos giant tortoise