Responsible exploration is at the heart of the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions mission, and you can travel with peace of mind in the Galápagos knowing that every voyage gives back to this awe-inspiring archipelago. With the help of guests, more than $10 million has been donated to protect, conserve and strengthen Galápagos habitats and communities. Plus, a percentage of sales in the onboard Global Gallery goes to the Lindblad Expeditions Artisan Fund, supporting artisan communities worldwide. Below, learn more about four key projects supported by expeditions, from protecting endangered native species on Floreana Island to strengthening education in local schools.
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Populations of land birds, like this yellow warbler, are threatened by an introduced parasitic fly. Photo: Agustin Gutierrez
In 2023, support from the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund (LEX-NG Fund) helped the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) conduct critical research to safeguard the unique ecosystems and native and endemic species of the Galápagos Islands. Contributions from travelers supported National Geographic Explorer Dr. Charlotte Causton’s work to eradicate the invasive avian vampire fly (Philornis downsi), whose larvae feed on the blood of critically endangered mangrove finch hatchlings and other bird species.
Her team tested two new methods for protecting threatened hatchlings, and both methods were found to be effective. These encouraging results will inform future efforts to protect Galápagos’ vibrant and unique landbird population. The LEX-NG Fund additionally supported CDF projects focused on enhancing ecological restoration of the threatened Scalesia Forest and on mitigating the risks of marine invasive species.
Fundación de Conservación Jocotoco & Island Conservation
A researcher from Fundación de Conservación Jocotoco measures ground readings in Galápagos. Photo: Juan Pablo Mayorga Villacis
Fundación de Conservación Jocotoco and Island Conservation’s Floreana Island Ecological Restoration Project is working with local communities to manage and remove invasive species from Floreana Island so endangered native species can thrive.
After years of extensive preparations—including working with communities to garner their support; developing plans to ensure the safety of livelihoods, livestock and native species; and completing an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment—the team began treatments to remove invasive rodents, a critical step in restoring the island’s ecological balance.
The team is using 75 camera traps equipped with artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities to improve the monitoring and control of these non-native species. Contributions from travelers on the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet will ultimately help 12 endemic species to reclaim their habitat.
Fundación Scalesia
Students at the Tomás de Berlanga School learn about conservation thanks to Fundación Scalesia and traveler contributions. Photo: Juan Pablo Mayorga
With support from guests, Fundación Scalesia and the Tomás de Berlanga (TdB) School are working to strengthen education and sustainability throughout Galápagos, providing educators with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the classroom and inspire their students to become stewards of the environment.
Traveler contributions helped Fundación Scalesia implement two 50-hour, in-person Teacher Institutes for all Pre-K to 12th grade teachers and school leaders in the Islands in 2023 and allowed TdB to extend meaningful educational opportunities to students. “With support from travelers, we were able to provide professional mentorship for teachers and provide scholarships for students to access high quality bilingual education in Galápagos. Thank you for inspiring us!” says Johanna Carrion, Executive Director for Fundación Scalesia.
Wildaid
WildAid supports boat patrols in the Galápagos Marine Preserve. Photo: Israel Rodriguez
The Galápagos Islands and their surrounding waters are home to nearly 3,000 marine species and one of the densest shark populations in the world. WildAid advances sustainable management and protection of the Galápagos Marine Reserve (GMR) by addressing gaps in fishing regulations and providing law enforcement support. Thanks to traveler donations to the LEX-NG Fund, in 2023 WildAid improved video surveillance of areas within the reserve and began a technical analysis of GMR’s legal framework.
Their project is advancing necessary legislative changes to ensure the long-term sustainability of the artisanal fishing sector in Galápagos. “Through your generosity, local park rangers are able to monitor and protect Galápagos National Park’s waters, ensuring the ecosystem’s future viability for all,” says Meaghan Brosnan, National Geographic Explorer and WildAid’s Chief Operating Officer. WildAid’s Marine Program, of which this work is a part, was also awarded the prestigious 2023 Earthshot Prize in the Revive Our Oceans category.
