Learn About Evolution in the Galapagos Before It’s Too Late

Charles Darwin developed his theory of natural selection and evolution while exploring the Galapagos Islands in 1835. While examining various specimens, Darwin was unaware at the time that his findings would later form his theory of evolution. It was while examining his findings and notes on different species from the various islands that he retrospectively found different birds and tortoises were in fact transmutations of the same species, and not, as he initially thought, entirely different varieties of a species.

Darwin’s discoveries completely altered the way we view the world as well as our understanding of ourselves. He explained in The Origins of the Species the mechanisms of evolutionary change and the importance of the interrelatedness of these species.

Unfortunately, the Galapagos Islands Darwin visited, filled with vibrant wildlife, are decaying. The cause is predominantly down to human interference. People have, intentionally or unintentionally, brought feral cats, goats and other animals and plants with diseases unnatural to the islands which is having a detrimental impact on the wildlife. Guava and avocado are among the most damaging plants now manifested on the island, killing off many of the same specimens Darwin analyzed.

If you have a thirst for exploration and wonder, the Galapagos Islands are some of the most beautiful places you can visit. Although not cheap, it’s certainly worth the trip for any nature enthusiast, so get out there, act responsibly and enjoy the beauty that inspired the discovery of our origins.