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The Galápagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, about 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador in South America. They are part of the country’s Galápagos Province. The archipelago consists of 18 main islands, 3 smaller islands, and more than 100 islets and rocks. The islands are spread out over a distance of approximately 220 kilometers. The Galápagos Islands are known for their unique wildlife and natural beauty, including the famous giant tortoises and marine iguanas. They are a popular destination for tourists and scientists interested in studying the diverse ecosystem of the islands.
Welcome aboard the S.S. Wonderopolis as we embark on a journey to the Galápagos Islands. Today, we are thrilled to explore this unique place teeming with wildlife!
But where exactly are we going? The Galápagos Islands are located near the equator in the Pacific Ocean. They are part of Ecuador and lie approximately 600 miles west of the country’s coastline. These islands are designated as a national park and a marine reserve.
The Galápagos Islands form an archipelago, which means they are a cluster or group of islands. There are 15 main islands, 3 smaller islands, and over 100 rocks and tiny islands in this group. In total, there is approximately 3,000 square miles of land. These islands are spread across 17,000 square miles of ocean!
Compared to many other places on Earth, the Galápagos Islands are relatively young. In fact, the youngest islands in the group are still being formed by active volcanoes.
About 25,000 people reside in the Galápagos Islands. However, they are not the only inhabitants. These islands are renowned for their diverse wildlife.
The Galápagos Islands are home to numerous unique species. This is largely due to the limited presence of natural predators and humans. What kinds of animals can you find on these islands? Some examples include marine iguanas, land iguanas, lava lizards, geckos, and snakes!
Various species of birds also inhabit the islands. One well-known example is Darwin’s finches, which are named after the famous scientist Charles Darwin. He extensively studied the wildlife in these islands. There are also special types of hawks, doves, flycatchers, rails, and mockingbirds that can only be found here.
The Galápagos Islands are also home to fascinating sea birds such as the flightless cormorant, the waved albatross, and the blue-footed booby. It is worth noting that the islands host the only penguin species that lives in tropical waters.
Sea lions, fur seals, dolphins, and whales are among the other marine animals that inhabit these islands. However, the most famous resident is undoubtedly the giant tortoise. In fact, the islands were named after this magnificent creature. “Galápago” means tortoise in Spanish.
Giant Galápagos tortoises are the largest tortoises in the world. The largest one ever recorded measured over five feet in length and weighed over 500 pounds! These giants can live for over 100 years.
Unfortunately, they are also endangered. Scientists have been working tirelessly to protect the giant tortoises. While some subspecies have made a recovery, these animals are still at risk. The current population of wild tortoises remains uncertain.
Do you happen to know anyone who lives in the Galápagos Islands? Have you ever had the opportunity to visit? If not, these islands offer breathtaking scenery and are definitely worth a visit. Lucky tourists may even catch a glimpse of the giant tortoise!
Give It a Try
Ready to explore the Galápagos Islands? If you can’t hop on a ship headed for the Pacific Ocean, grab your computer and go online instead!
Explore the Galápagos Islands through this photo gallery and discover the unique wildlife and stunning places found throughout the islands. Do you dream of visiting this chain of islands one day? Discuss your thoughts with a friend or family member.
Take some time to learn about the Galápagos tortoise. Draw a picture depicting what this animal looks like. Afterwards, write down the three most fascinating facts you have learned about the tortoise on the back of your picture.
Imagine that you are planning a family vacation to the Galápagos Islands. However, you can only bring five items with you. What will you choose to pack for your trip? Create a list and explain to a friend or family member why you have decided to bring each item.
Sources of Wonder:
– http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gal%C3%A1pagos_Islands (accessed 08 June 2020)
– http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/animals/creaturefeature/galapagos-tortoise/ (accessed 08 June 2020)
– https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/reptiles/g/galapagos-tortoise/ (accessed 08 June 2020)
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