Speakers: Scott Stoner and Denise Hackert-Stoner

Straddling the Equator 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, these volcanic islands offer the nature lover a variety of unique species in the beautiful and pristine habitats that support them. Darwin’s observations there in 1835 became the basis for his theory of natural selection.

We’ll explore how a single species of finch, arriving 2 million years ago, rapidly evolved into approximately 18 species. We’ll also see and try not to step on the fascinating marine and land iguanas as we ‘visit’ colonies of nesting albatrosses, frigatebirds and boobies, and view uncommon species such as Galapagos Rail and Paint-billed Crake.

We’ll explain why these tropical islands actually support a population of penguins!

Finally, we’ll discuss the iconic giant Galapagos tortoises, learn their sad history and promising future on their home, Las Islas Encantadas.