
Espanola Island, Galapagos

- © Joseph Sina
Espanola Island, also know as Hood, is one of the oldest Galapagos Islands and also one of the most secluded. As a result of its isolation, wildlife on Española has adapted to its habitat in unique ways. The subspecies of marine iguana found on the island is the only one that changes color during breeding season. The Hood Mockingbird is larger than other mockingbirds found in the Galapagos and is the only carnivorous one of the species.
Punta Suarez, on the western tip of the island, is one of the top sites to view wildlife in the Galapagos. Its cliffs provide the nesting grounds for most of the world’s Waved Albatrosses. Several other species of seabirds, including Galapagos doves and hawks also nest here. From Punta Suarez, a trail leads to the amazing beach lining Gardner Bay on the eastern shore. A primary nesting site for marine turtles, the beach also is a favorite site for a colony of Galapagos sea lions.
Small inlets nearby provide a protected home for colorful tropical fish, turtles and sharks and are an ideal location for sea kayaking.
You may also be interested in…
- Recent genetic tests performed on two groups of about giant tortoises living on the island of Santa Cruz has revealed the existence of a brand new species. Previously, scientists believed that tortoi...
- Iguanas are a common and generally welcome site in the Galapagos Islands. In fact, the archipelago is literally crawling with them in some places. But last month, a very unusual iguana sighting ra...
- Birdwatching in the Galapagos Islands just got a little easier and more fun thanks to a new free app. BirdsEye Galapagos will help visitors identify and learn about birds and allow them to contribute ...
Fast Fact
A Galapagos tortoise can weigh nearly 600lbs.RELATED VIDEO


