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Galapagos Research Paper

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The Galapagos in September

Charles Darwin first visited the Galapagos Islands in September, exploring the islands and discovering creatures that remain today; including giant tortoises and marine iguanas- while marveling at the volcanic landscapes and the diversity found within their borders.

True to form, the islands in September are alive with creatures great and small in the midst of transition. Giant tortoises on Santa Cruz make the journey back from the coast to the lush highlands of the island. Fur seals are beginning to breed, and female sea lions are giving birth, with males fiercely protecting their harems from other bulls.

It is a cool month to visit the archipelago, in both senses of the word. The chilly Humboldt Current mixes …show more content…
Pups are beginning to take to the water, found swimming when snorkeling. Take care not to get too close, as protective parents are quick to defend their young.

On land, sea birds are nesting and young fledglings are finding their wings. Blue-footed boobies and great and magnificent frigate birds are raising their young and mating. The height of their mating season has come and gone in the previous months, but the season lasts year round. Both boobies and frigate birds mating rituals are still in swing, observed along the inland paths on each island.

Our safari holidays visit these islands on day trips over the water, returning to the camp for drinks at sunset and a hearty dinner in the main lodge at the end of the day.

Santa Cruz Island

The giant Galapagos tortoises of Santa Cruz are returning to their homes in the highlands of the island, after migrating to the lowlands of the coast during the previous months to nest and lay their eggs. The short trek of less than four miles takes two to three weeks, slowly moving at a snail's pace

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