2023 was a landmark year for the Galapagos Islands, renowned for their giant tortoises and other unique species. The long-standing conservation group, the Galapagos Conservancy, native to the islands, recently released its annual report showcasing impressive achievements. Notably, over 500 giant tortoises from five different species were reintroduced to their natural habitats.
A critical insight revealed that a highly endangered albatross species uses the feeding sites of giant tortoises as take-off and landing zones. This discovery of interdependence has bolstered the Conservancy's confidence in restoring both species to stable, thriving populations.
These accomplishments highlight the significant impact of donations to local wildlife organizations. These successes were made possible by over $6 million in contributions from supporters.
The report details various reintroduction efforts: 30 Chelonoidis chatamensis tortoises were returned to San Cristobal, 97 tortoises to Santa Cruz, and 350 tortoises (214 C. guntheri and 136 C. vicina) to Isabella. Additionally, in March, 86 juvenile Chelonoidis hoodensis tortoises were repatriated to Española, boosting their population to 3,000, a remarkable recovery from just 14 in the 1960s.
On Española, the endemic waved albatross was observed using 50 new take-off and landing sites. These large birds, with an 8-foot wingspan, require ample space to take off and land. Biologists found that areas with giant tortoises were used as runways for the albatross. The tortoises, being the largest herbivores in the ecosystem, clear spaces with their feeding habits, similar to how bison and elephants do in other regions.
“This discovery underscores the interconnectedness of the Galápagos ecosystem,” the report authors wrote. “This newly acquired knowledge allows us to strengthen the synergies between our conservation strategies.”
Of the $6.1 million received from donations and other activities, 77% was spent on conservation programs. Ambitious plans for the year included drafting plans for the restoration of the Pinta tortoise, preparing tortoises for reintroduction to Floreana island, and restoring the habitat for the Galapagos petrels on Santa Cruz.
Since its founding in 1985, the Galapagos Conservancy has consistently worked towards restoring the islands to their pre-Columbian state. Here’s hoping 2024 will be just as fruitful.
