The idea behind the ‘Big 15’ concept is to showcase how important and valuable the Galapagos Islands wildlife truly is. Though there are different opinions on which animals should be included in this by no means comprehensive list, it’s a great starting point for learning about the island’s wild side.
Located in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, this archipelago is renowned for its unique biodiversity. See which iconic animals make the cut, and be inspired to make your personal wish list for a Galapagos wildlife safari!
These gentle giants are perhaps the most famous residents of the Galápagos Islands. They can live for well over 100 years and weigh up to 64 stone!
These seabirds are known for their bright blue feet, which they use in elaborate courtship displays. They are excellent divers and feed primarily on fish.
These apex predators are the largest birds of prey in the Galápagos Islands. They primarily feed on small animals such as iguanas and rodents, but they have been known to attack young seabirds as well.
The only lizard in the world that forages in the sea, the marine iguana is known for its black coloration and its ability to dive deep underwater to feed on algae.
Unlike their marine cousins, these iguanas are terrestrial and can be found basking in the sun on rocky outcrops throughout the islands.
These turtles are known for their distinctive green coloration and can be found feeding on seagrass beds throughout the islands.
Similar to sea lions, these seals can be found basking on the rocky shores of the islands. They are smaller and furrier than sea lions and are primarily nocturnal hunters.
The only penguin species found north of the equator, the Galápagos penguin, is the smallest penguin species and is well adapted to the warm waters of the islands.
These playful creatures can be found lounging on beaches throughout the islands. They are excellent swimmers and often interact with snorkelers and divers.
Frigatebirds are fascinating seabirds with distinctive long, narrow wings and deeply forked tails. They have black plumage with a slight greenish sheen, and the males have a striking red throat pouch called a gular sac, which they inflate during courtship displays.
These colorful crabs are commonly found along the rocky shores of the Galápagos. They are agile climbers and feed on algae and small invertebrates.
As its name suggests, this cormorant has lost the ability to fly. Instead, it has evolved powerful swimming abilities, allowing it to dive deep in search of fish.
Also known as the American flamingo, this bird is a distinctive species of flamingo found in the Galapagos Islands, particularly on the islands of Floreana and Isabela. They are one of six species of flamingos and are known for their vibrant pink plumage, long necks, and characteristic downward-bending bills.
Endemic to the islands, these birds are known for their diverse range of vocalisations and their habit of imitating the calls of other species.
The Waved Albatross is a large seabird with a wingspan of about 7 to 8 feet, with their breeding colonies primarily located on Española Island. They have a white head and body with black wings and back. Their wings feature a distinctive wavy pattern, hence their name.
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