The highest rates of endemic species are found in the eastern and southern islands. This is due to the fact that they are the first islands on the path of the prevailing winds and currents which flow from the southeast. This means that creatures have been established here for longer, giving them time to evolve into new forms. Amongst the endemic species unique to Española we can find the mockingbirds, lava lizards and the Española ground finch. The island is also home to the only tropical albatross in the world: the waved albatross. The white coralline beaches and bays of the island make the perfect habitat for one of the most charismatic species of the islands, the Galapagos sea lion.
6/12/2025
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National Geographic Endeavour II
Bartolomé and Sombrero Chino Islands
Warm ocean air and a colorful sunrise met us as we approached Bartolomé. Guests traveled by foot or Zodiac to experience the compacted ash landscape. On our first snorkeling excursion, we swam with diving penguins and sea creatures like whitetip and blacktip sharks, rays, and parrotfish. On the next snorkeling opportunity, we enjoyed seeing even more fish and sea stars! After lunch, we were back on the Zodiac for a third snorkeling opportunity. We dove in by Sombrero Chino. We spotted whitetip sharks, a school of fish, sea lions, pufferfish, and more. We ended the day by circumnavigating Sombrero Chino on Zodiac. We spotted more penguins. The community spirit that has developed over the week was evident as a Zodiac of guests serenaded Sarah on her birthday! Traveling to the Galapagos has made the world feel small. We have found common ground with guests and staff and made connections between our actions back home and the conservation of this beautiful archipelago. Written by Sarah Magnano and Robin Lockwood, Grosvenor Teacher Fellows
