Today, our guests explored Santa Cruz Island. After a delicious breakfast, we landed in Puerto Ayora, homeport of most tour boat operations in the Galapagos. Additionally, this town hosts the headquarters of the Galapagos National Park and of the Charles Darwin Research Station. Our guests learned about the iconic giant tortoise restoration project and hiked into giant tortoise territory.
Santa Cruz giant tortoises are an important part of the Galapagos Islands' natural history. These tortoises have adapted over time to the unique environment of the islands. They are known for their large and domed shells, which help them move across the dense forest. Santa Cruz tortoises are herbivores, mainly feeding on grasses, fruits, and cacti found across the island's varied landscapes.
These tortoises played a crucial role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. He observed how their different shell shapes and sizes varied from island to island, reflecting adaptations to local conditions. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitats and ensuring their survival against habitat loss and introduced species.
