Thursday, August 15, 2024 The Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are renowned for their unique and endemic species, such as giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, coexisting with humans in a delicate balance. However, the islands are now facing significant challenges due to a rise in tourism and a growing population, which are straining the fragile ecosystem. Biologist Carolina Proaño, who works in the humid highlands of the Galápagos, has been tirelessly working to save the critically endangered Galápagos petrel, a seabird that nests in the ground.
On her family farm on Santa Cruz Island, Proaño has designated a protected area for the petrels and uses various methods to attract them, including playing recordings of their calls. Despite her efforts, she recently discovered two adult petrels dead near their nests, victims of stray dogs—a growing problem on the islands, introduced by humans. Proaño’s experience highlights the broader issue of invasive species, which have become more prevalent as the human population increases.
These species, including pets like dogs and cats that are often abandoned, pose a significant threat to native wildlife by preying on birds and their eggs. In addition to deliberate introductions, unintentional arrivals of insects and parasites via cargo ships have further complicated the islands’ biosecurity. The parasitic fly Philornis downsi has had a particularly devastating impact on local bird populations, laying it.