The Galapagos Islands consist of 15 main volcanic islands of which only one, the largest – Isabela Island, crosses the equator. Notably, Isabela Island's Wolf Volcano is located just above the equator. The Galapagos Islands were incorporated into Ecuador on February 12, 1832, by Juan José Flores, the first president of Ecuador.

Large tortoises of the Galapagos: The Galapagos Islands are home to 12 species of giant Galapagos tortoises. These tortoises can live for more than 100 years. They typically move very slowly due to the weight of their carapace. Some have long necks while others have short necks, making it easy to distinguish between each species.

Animals of the Galapagos: Other than tortoises, the Galapagos Islands are also home to sea lions, beaked terns, blue-footed gulls, fascinating sparrow birds, and penguins which are thought to have been introduced from outside the region. 

Charles Darwin published his theories on biological evolution and natural selection in 1859 based on fieldwork in the Galapagos Islands.


Now let's head downstairs.