Galapagos Wildlife/3 Bradt

by Horwell, David; Oxford, Pete

• ISBN13: 9781841623603
• ISBN10: 1841623601
• Edition: 3rd
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2011-11-22
• Publisher: Bradt Travel Guides

Summary

Traveling to the Galapagos to discover the unique flora and fauna that so captivated Darwin and the many that followed him is a rite of passage for serious wildlife enthusiasts. Written by two expert naturalists who are passionate about the Galapagos, this guide is packed with entertaining descriptions, while full-color photography aids in identifying key species both on land and below water. [HelenC1] Now with more detailed descriptions of island landing sites, more photos, and updated information on conservation efforts, Bradt's Galapagos Wildlifeis the perfect companion for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. For those looking to explore it also includes unique island trail plans.

Author Biography

David Horwell, a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, is a tour operator, photographer and writer specializing in the Galápagos. Pete Oxford is a professional naturalist, based in Ecuador, who leads trips to the islands.

Table of Contents

An Introduction to the Galápagos Habitats Plants Invertebrates Reptiles Birds Mammals The Seashore Underwater Island Landings and Visitor Sites Conservation Glossary Further Reading Index

Excerpts

Punta Suarez

From the moment the dinghy heads to the rocky point you are spell-bound by surfing young sea lions, and a reception committee of their parents barking on the tiny beach. A promontory of wave-rounded boulders protects the landing from some of the biggest waves in the archipelago. Large marine iguanas lie motionless like sentinels upon the rocks - here more colorful than elsewhere with hues of red and green. First you walk South through dense saltbush then... the trail continues on through a colony of Nazca boobies at the western edge of the island. The trail dips down to an eroded pebble beach; tread carefully as marine iguanas nest here! A pair of oystercatchers can usually be heard as you step into their domain. All along the coast the distinctive red-billed tropic birds utter their screeching alarm call, and if you are lucky can spot them entering a cave where they nest. Boobies will keep a watchful eye for a Galápagos hawk that will pick off any chicks left unguarded. The lava lizards are bigger here than other islands, especially the black-spotted males and the mockingbirds also differ with longer bills and aggressive behaviour, e.g. perching on tourists’ hats.