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  • Marine iguanas (Amblyrhyncus cristatus) and Galapagos sealions (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Punta Suarez, Española (Hood) Island, Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
Marine iguans are Endemic to Galapagos. They are the only true marine lizard in the world. On Hood Island they are more colourful than other islands.<br />
There are approximately 16,000 individual sealions in the archipelago and numbers are increasing. Males are much larger than females, weighing up to 250kg compared with 100kg in the females. They spend a large amount of time hauled up on sandy beaches. The males establish territories which are savegely defended from rivals. Young bachelors and unsuccessful bulls then leave the area and establish bachelor colonies on the outskirts of female haul-outs. Reproduction occures mainly in the Garua season between July and December and will vary from Island to Island. Sealions are highly thigmotactic (seeking body contact) and loaf around in piles on the beaches. They are extremely efficient hunters, preferring sardines to other fish, so spend a considerable time resting or at play. Underwater they are well streamlined, lithe and acrobatic.
    GC61_Marine_iguanas_&_sealions.tif
  • SS Mary Anne<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161216_SS_Mary_Anne_98.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
Pacific Ocean<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    20161216_Galapagos_Sealion_400.tif
  • Swallow-tailed gulls (Larus furcatus) at nest site.<br />
Española (Hood) Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS<br />
The world's only nocturnal and oceanic gull. At dusk it flies out to sea to feed. They rely on the bioluminescent light given off by squid - their favourite food - to find them. They breed either on the sand or on cliff edges. To prevent themselves crashing into the cliff walls on their return in darkness, they utter clicking vocalisations, thought to be a form of primitive echo-location, similar to that of bats. They have a less than annual breeding cycle so chicks can be seen at any time of year.
    GC520_Swallow-tailed_gulls.tif
  • Swallow-tailed Gull (Larus furcatus) on nest<br />
Punto Cevallos, Española (Hood) Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS<br />
The world's only nocturnal and oceanic gull. At dusk it flies out to sea to feed. They rely on the bioluminescent light given off by squid - their favourite food - to find them. They breed either on the sand or on cliff edges. To prevent themselves crashing into the cliff walls on their return in darkness, they utter clicking vocalisations, thought to be a form of primitive echo-location, similar to that of bats. They have a less than annual breeding cycle so chicks can be seen at any time of year.
    1G5377_Swallow-tailed_Gull.tif
  • Swallow-tailed gull (Larus furcatus)<br />
Española (Hood) Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS<br />
The world's only nocturnal and oceanic gull. At dusk it flies out to sea to feed. They rely on the bioluminescent light given off by squid - their favourite food - to find them. They breed either on the sand or on cliff edges. To prevent themselves crashing into the cliff walls on their return in darkness, they utter clicking vocalisations, thought to be a form of primitive echo-location, similar to that of bats. They have a less than annual breeding cycle so chicks can be seen at any time of year.<br />
[#Beginning of Shooting Data Section]<br />
Nikon D2X<br />
Focal Length: 300mm<br />
Optimize Image: <br />
Color Mode: Mode II (Adobe RGB)<br />
Long Exposure NR: Off<br />
High ISO NR: Off<br />
2007/07/26 08:27:17.7<br />
Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority<br />
White Balance: Cloudy<br />
Tone Comp.: Normal<br />
RAW (12-bit)<br />
Metering Mode: Multi-Pattern<br />
AF Mode: AF-C<br />
Hue Adjustment: 0°<br />
Image Size: Large (4288 x 2848)<br />
1/1600 sec - F/5<br />
Flash Sync Mode: Not Attached<br />
Saturation: Normal<br />
Color<br />
Exposure Comp.: -2.0 EV<br />
Sharpening: None<br />
Lens: 300mm F/2.8 D<br />
Sensitivity: ISO 200<br />
Auto Flash Comp: 0 EV<br />
Image Comment:                                     <br />
[#End of Shooting Data Section]
    GC26_Swallow-tailed_gull.tif
  • Purple surgeonfish (Acanthurus xanthopterus Valenciennes)<br />
off Gardner Bay, Española (Hood) Island, Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This species reach lengths of 61cm and are the largest surgeonfish in the Galapagos. Although they occur in lagoons they prefer seaward reefs where they are known at depths of 90meters. They aggregate into various-sized schools and graze on filamentous algae, on the filmy ooze of diatoms and detritus on sand.  They are not common in Galapagos although sporadically regionally abundant in certain localities such as Darwin Bay, Tower and Plazas.
    IS467_Purple_surgeonfish.tif
  • SS Mary Anne<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161202_SS_Mary_Anne_104.tif
  • Lava Lizard female (Microlophus delanonis)<br />
Española Island,<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS
    20161202_Lava_Lizard_female_5.tif
  • SS Mary Anne<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161216_SS_Mary_Anne_144.tif
  • SS Mary Anne<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161216_SS_Mary_Anne_171.tif
  • Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis urinator)<br />
Española Island<br />
Galapagos<br />
Ecuador,  South America
    20161216_Brown_Pelican_65.tif
  • Sunstar (Heliaster sp.)<br />
Española Island<br />
Galapagos<br />
Pacific Ocean<br />
Ecuador, South America
    20161216_Sunstar_6.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
Pacific Ocean<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    20161216_Galapagos_Sealion_382.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
Pacific Ocean<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    20161216_Galapagos_Sealion_401.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
Pacific Ocean<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    20161216_Galapagos_Sealion_398.jpg
  • Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis urinator)<br />
Española Island<br />
Galapagos<br />
Ecuador,  South America
    20161216_Brown_Pelican_63.jpg
  • Galapagos sealions (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Gardner Bay, Española (Hood) Island. Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    SC2336 Galapagos sealions.jpg
  • Galapagos sealions (Zalophus wollebaeki) Mother and pup<br />
Española (Hood) Island. Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    SC1958 Galapagos sealions.jpg
  • SC1958 Galapagos sealions.tif
  • Waved Albatross pair (Phoebastria irrorata) change over for egg incubating<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G5654_Waved_Albatross_change_over.tif
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata)<br />
Punta Suarez <br />
Española Island<br />
Galapagos<br />
Ecuador, South America<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
critically threatened
    20161216_Waved_albatross_41.tif
  • Nazca booby (Sula granti)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161216_Nazca_booby_60.tif
  • Nazca booby (Sula granti)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161216_Nazca_booby_51.jpg
  • Waved Albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) Courtship<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G5051 Waved Albatross Courtship.jpg
  • Waved Albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) Chick being harrassed by Nazca boobies, (formerly Masked booby) (Sula granti)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    4GL63_Waved_Albatross_Chick_&_Nazca_...tif
  • Waved Albatross pair (Phoebastria irrorata) change over for egg incubating<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G5647_Waved_Albatross_change_over.tif
  • Nazca booby (Sula granti)<br />
Española Island<br />
GALAPAGOS,  Ecuador, South America
    20161216_Nazca_booby_71.tif
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata)<br />
Punta Suarez <br />
Española Island<br />
Galapagos<br />
Ecuador, South America<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
critically threatened
    20161216_Waved_albatross_55.jpg
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) flight<br />
Punta Suarez <br />
Española Island<br />
Galapagos<br />
Ecuador, South America<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
critically threatened
    20161202_Waved_albatross_in_flight_4...jpg
  • Waved Albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) Courtship<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G5602 Waved Albatross Courtship.jpg
  • Waved Albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) with egg.<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G6007_Waved_Albatross_&_egg.jpg
  • Lava Lizard female (Microlophus delanonis)<br />
Punta Suarez, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    1G2140_Lava_Lizard.jpg
  • Waved Albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) in long grass<br />
Punta Suarez, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G4450_Waved_Albatross.jpg
  • Waved Albatross (Phoebastria irrorata)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. <br />
CRITICALLY ENDANGERED<br />
However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate for life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    1G5403 Waved Albatross.jpg
  • Medium Ground Finch (Geospiza fortis) <br />
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO THE ISLANDS<br />
RANGE: Found on all islands in the Galapagos except Tower, Española, Darwin and Worf.<br />
It prefers the lowlands and transitional zones although it can be found feeding in the farm zones.<br />
Feeds on fallen fruit and poison apple, tree flowers, leaf buds, young green leaves, caterpillars, seeds and small insects. Some individuals have been seen cleaning parasites from the skin of giant tortoises on Alcedo Volcano on Isabela Island and on Marine Iguanas on Plazas Island.
    1G2006_Medium_Ground_Finch.tif
  • Galapagos Giant Tortoise - Saddleback form (Geochelone elephantophus hoodensis)<br />
Charles Darwin Research Station. Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This species is from Española or Hood Island. They have a very pronounced saddleback carapace. This is one fo the conservation sucess stories. In 1964 the entire population consisted of 3 males and 12 females. They were taken to the Charlse Darwin Research Station in 1965 and were the first tortoises to be bred in captivity. By 2000 the 1,000 young tortoise had been released back on Espaõla.
    1G1334_Galapagos_Giant_Tortoise.tif
  • Blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii excisa)<br />
Española or Hood Island Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    GC461_Blue-footed_booby.tif
  • Galapagos sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki) underwater<br />
Española or Hood Island, Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
There are approximately 16,000 individuals in the archipelago and numbers are increasing. Males are much larger than females, weighing up to 250kg compared with 100kg in the females. They spend a large amount of time hauled up on sandy beaches. The males establish territories which are savegely defended from rivals. Young bachelors and unsuccessful bulls then leave the area and establish bachelor colonies on the outskirts of female haul-outs. Reproduction occures mainly in the Garua season between July and December and will vary from Island to Island. Sealions are highly thigmotactic (seeking body contact) and loaf around in piles on the beaches. They are extremely efficient hunters, preferring sardines to other fish, so spend a considerable time resting or at play. Underwater they are well streamlined, lithe and acrobatic.
    GC838_Galapagos_Sealion.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Gardner Bay, Española or Hood Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America
    20161216_Galapagos_Sealions_61.tif
  • Great frigatebird (Fregata minor) - male with inflated pouch<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS  ECUADOR South America<br />
RANGE: They breed in the w, e and central Pacific and Revillagigedo, Cocos and Galapagos Islands. Also on Trindade Island, Martin Vaz Island and range to Brazil. In the w Indian Ocean on Aldabra and adjacent islands as well as Christmas Island. In the S. China Sea on Paracel Island.<br />
This is one of 2 species found in Galapagos. They have the largest wingspan-to-bodyweight ratio of any bird making them highly manoeuvrable and acrobatic. These seabirds range long distances to feed, scooping fish off the surface as they can not land at sea.
    1G6342 Great frigatebird male.jpg
  • Blue-footed booby courtship (Sula nebouxii excisa)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    1G5017 Blue-footed booby courtship.jpg
  • Galapagos Hawks (Buteo galapagoensis) Male brought in Lava Lizard (Microlophus albemarlensis) to female on the nest. There is a chick in the nest (unseen) which is why they are bringing food to the nest.<br />
Española or James Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This is one of the world's rarest raptors with around 800 individuals living around the islands. Although they are commonly seen they are a vulnerable species. TheY scavenge on dead carcasses as well as hunt iguanas, snakes, rats, birds etc.<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
VULNERABLE SPECIES
    1G8204_Galapagos_Hawks_&_Lava_Lizard.jpg
  • Warbler Finch (Certhidea olivacea)<br />
Española (Hood) Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
Smallest of Darwin's Finches.
    1PL339_Warbler_Finch.tif
  • Galapagos Hawks (Buteo galapagoensis) Male brought in Lava Lizard (Microlophus albemarlensis) to female on the nest. There is a chick in the nest (unseen) which is why they are bringing food to the nest.<br />
Española or James Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This is one of the world's rarest raptors with around 800 individuals living around the islands. Although they are commonly seen they are a vulnerable species. TheY scavenge on dead carcasses as well as hunt iguanas, snakes, rats, birds etc.<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
VULNERABLE SPECIES
    1G8210_Galapagos_Hawks_&_Lava_Lizard.tif
  • Galapagos Hawk (Buteo galapagoensis) with Chick in nest<br />
Española or James Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This is one of the world's rarest raptors with around 800 individuals living around the islands. Although they are commonly seen they are a vulnerable species. TheY scavenge on dead carcasses as well as hunt iguanas, snakes, rats, birds etc.<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
VULNERABLE SPECIES
    1G8199_Galapagos_Hawk_&_Chick.tif
  • Galapagos Hawk (Buteo galapagoensis) with Chick in nest<br />
Española or James Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This is one of the world's rarest raptors with around 800 individuals living around the islands. Although they are commonly seen they are a vulnerable species. TheY scavenge on dead carcasses as well as hunt iguanas, snakes, rats, birds etc.<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
VULNERABLE SPECIES
    1G8300_Galapagos_Hawk_&_Chick.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
There are approximately 16,000 individuals in the archipelago and numbers are increasing. Males are much larger than females, weighing up to 250kg compared with 100kg in the females. They spend a large amount of time hauled up on sandy beaches. The males establish territories which are savegely defended from rivals. Young bachelors and unsuccessful bulls then leave the area and establish bachelor colonies on the outskirts of female haul-outs. Reproduction occures mainly in the Garua season between July and December and will vary from Island to Island. Sealions are highly thigmotactic (seeking body contact) and loaf around in piles on the beaches. They are extremely efficient hunters, preferring sardines to other fish, so spend a considerable time resting or at play. Underwater they are well streamlined, lithe and acrobatic.
    1G5555_Galapagos_Sealion.tif
  • Blue-footed booby  (Sula nebouxii excisa)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    1G5027_Blue-footed_booby.tif
  • Blue-footed Booby Colony (Sula nebouxii excisa)<br />
Española (Hood) Island. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS,<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed Boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    1G2150_Blue-footed_Booby_Colony.tif
  • Medium Ground Finch (Geospiza fortis) in nest<br />
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO THE ISLANDS<br />
RANGE: Found on all islands in the Galapagos except Tower, Española, Darwin and Worf.<br />
It prefers the lowlands and transitional zones although it can be found feeding in the farm zones.<br />
Feeds on fallen fruit and poison apple, tree flowers, leaf buds, young green leaves, caterpillars, seeds and small insects. Some individuals have been seen cleaning parasites from the skin of giant tortoises on Alcedo Volcano on Isabela Island and on Marine Iguanas on Plazas Island.
    1G1673_Medium_Ground_Finch.tif
  • Galapagos Giant Tortoise - Saddleback form (Geochelone elephantophus hoodensis)<br />
Charles Darwin Research Station. Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS, ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This species is from Española or Hood Island. They have a very pronounced saddleback carapace. This is one fo the conservation sucess stories. In 1964 the entire population consisted of 3 males and 12 females. They were taken to the Charlse Darwin Research Station in 1965 and were the first tortoises to be bred in captivity. By 2000 the 1,000 young tortoise had been released back on Espaõla.
    1G1060_Galapagos_Giant_Tortoise.tif
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) chick<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate fore life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.
    GC481_Waved_albatross_chick.tif
  • Galapagos sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki) underwater<br />
Española or Hood Island, Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
There are approximately 16,000 individuals in the archipelago and numbers are increasing. Males are much larger than females, weighing up to 250kg compared with 100kg in the females. They spend a large amount of time hauled up on sandy beaches. The males establish territories which are savegely defended from rivals. Young bachelors and unsuccessful bulls then leave the area and establish bachelor colonies on the outskirts of female haul-outs. Reproduction occures mainly in the Garua season between July and December and will vary from Island to Island. Sealions are highly thigmotactic (seeking body contact) and loaf around in piles on the beaches. They are extremely efficient hunters, preferring sardines to other fish, so spend a considerable time resting or at play. Underwater they are well streamlined, lithe and acrobatic.
    GC824_Galapagos_Sealion.tif
  • Galapagos sealions (Zalophus wollebaeki) underwater<br />
Española or Hood Island, Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
There are approximately 16,000 individuals in the archipelago and numbers are increasing. Males are much larger than females, weighing up to 250kg compared with 100kg in the females. They spend a large amount of time hauled up on sandy beaches. The males establish territories which are savegely defended from rivals. Young bachelors and unsuccessful bulls then leave the area and establish bachelor colonies on the outskirts of female haul-outs. Reproduction occures mainly in the Garua season between July and December and will vary from Island to Island. Sealions are highly thigmotactic (seeking body contact) and loaf around in piles on the beaches. They are extremely efficient hunters, preferring sardines to other fish, so spend a considerable time resting or at play. Underwater they are well streamlined, lithe and acrobatic.
    GC783_Galapagos_Sealions.tif
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) courtship<br />
Española or Hood Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate fore life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.<br />
<br />
[#Beginning of Shooting Data Section]<br />
Nikon D2X<br />
Focal Length: 420mm<br />
Optimize Image: <br />
Color Mode: Mode II (Adobe RGB)<br />
Long Exposure NR: Off<br />
High ISO NR: On (Normal)<br />
2007/07/27 09:29:56.8<br />
Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority<br />
White Balance: Cloudy<br />
Tone Comp.: Normal<br />
RAW (12-bit)<br />
Metering Mode: Multi-Pattern<br />
AF Mode: AF-C<br />
Hue Adjustment: 0°<br />
Image Size: Large (4288 x 2848)<br />
1/1000 sec - F/4<br />
Flash Sync Mode: Not Attached<br />
Saturation: Normal<br />
Color<br />
Exposure Comp.: -1.7 EV<br />
Sharpening: None<br />
Lens: 300mm F/2.8 D<br />
Sensitivity: ISO 400<br />
Auto Flash Comp: 0 EV<br />
Image Comment:                                     <br />
[#End of Shooting Data Section]
    GC452_Waved_albatross.tif
  • Blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii excisa) feet<br />
Española or Hood Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    GC434_Blue-footed_booby_feet.tif
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata) preening<br />
Española or Hood Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate fore life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.<br />
<br />
[#Beginning of Shooting Data Section]<br />
Nikon D2X<br />
Focal Length: 420mm<br />
Optimize Image: <br />
Color Mode: Mode II (Adobe RGB)<br />
Long Exposure NR: Off<br />
High ISO NR: On (Normal)<br />
2007/07/27 09:53:52.6<br />
Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority<br />
White Balance: Cloudy<br />
Tone Comp.: Normal<br />
RAW (12-bit)<br />
Metering Mode: Multi-Pattern<br />
AF Mode: AF-C<br />
Hue Adjustment: 0°<br />
Image Size: Large (4288 x 2848)<br />
1/1600 sec - F/5.6<br />
Flash Sync Mode: Not Attached<br />
Saturation: Normal<br />
Color<br />
Exposure Comp.: -1.7 EV<br />
Sharpening: None<br />
Lens: 300mm F/2.8 D<br />
Sensitivity: ISO 400<br />
Auto Flash Comp: 0 EV<br />
Image Comment:                                     <br />
[#End of Shooting Data Section]
    GC159_Waved_albatross_preening.tif
  • Waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata)<br />
Española or Hood Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO GALAPAGOS. However a few pairs nest on Isla de la Plata near the Ecuadorian mainland. +-12,000 pairs breed on the Island of Española in Galapagos. They only come ashore between April and December to breed, otherwise they spend their entire life at sea. Once an albatross chick fledges and goes to sea it will remain there until it is 4 years old before returning to land to breed for the first time. Albatross mate fore life and live about 40 years. They form part of the family of tube-nosed birds.<br />
<br />
[#Beginning of Shooting Data Section]<br />
Nikon D2X<br />
Focal Length: 420mm<br />
Optimize Image: <br />
Color Mode: Mode II (Adobe RGB)<br />
Long Exposure NR: Off<br />
High ISO NR: On (Normal)<br />
2007/07/27 09:53:44.7<br />
Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority<br />
White Balance: Cloudy<br />
Tone Comp.: Normal<br />
RAW (12-bit)<br />
Metering Mode: Multi-Pattern<br />
AF Mode: AF-C<br />
Hue Adjustment: 0°<br />
Image Size: Large (4288 x 2848)<br />
1/2000 sec - F/5.6<br />
Flash Sync Mode: Not Attached<br />
Saturation: Normal<br />
Color<br />
Exposure Comp.: -1.7 EV<br />
Sharpening: None<br />
Lens: 300mm F/2.8 D<br />
Sensitivity: ISO 400<br />
Auto Flash Comp: 0 EV<br />
Image Comment:                                     <br />
[#End of Shooting Data Section]
    GC137_Waved_albatross.tif
  • Swallow-tailed Gull<br />
Creagrus furcatus<br />
Española (Hood) Island<br />
Galapagos Islands, ECUADOR.  South America<br />
Range: Galapagos and winters off Coast of Chile and Colombia
    D1X_4367_Swallow-tailed_Gull.tif
  • Galapagos Sea Lion & Tourist (Julie Stewart)<br />
Zalophus californianus wollebacki<br />
Gardner Bay, Española (Hood) Island<br />
Galapagos Islands, ECUADOR.  South America
    D1X_4450_Sea_Lion.tif
  • Galapagos Sea Lions & Tourists (Julie Mezainis & Julie Stewart)<br />
Zalophus californianus wollebacki<br />
Gardner Bay, Española (Hood) Island<br />
Galapagos Islands, ECUADOR.  South America
    D1X_4409_Sea_Lions_&_Tourists.tif
  • American Oystercatcher<br />
Haematopus palliatus<br />
Punta Suarez, Española (Hood) Island<br />
Galapagos Islands, ECUADOR.  South America
    D1X_4157_Oystercatcher.tif
  • Blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii excisa) feet<br />
Española or Hood Island<br />
Galapagos Islands<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    GC434 Blue-footed booby feet.tif
  • Galapagos Sealion (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Gardner Bay, Española or Hood Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
Zach Montes
    20161216_Galapagos_Sealion_&_Zach_Mo...jpg
  • Blue-footed booby (Sula nebouxii excisa) <br />
Punta Suarez, Española or Hood Island Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    1G5723_Blue-footed_booby.jpg
  • Blue-footed booby  (Sula nebouxii excisa)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    1G5018_Blue-footed_booby.jpg
  • Nazca Boobies, (formerly Masked booby) (Sula granti) Mutual Preening<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
They are intermediate between the blue-footed and red-footed booby. They are also plunge-divers but feed further afield than the blue-foots in the inter-island area. They have fewer large colonies but are widespread throughout the archipelago. Sexes are simular and like the blue-foots, nest on the ground. Usually their nests are near cliff edges. Although they lay 2 eggs they only ever raise one chick. The healthier chick pushed the other out of the guano ring - representing the nest. The parents ignore the battle known as 'obligate sibling murder' and leave the chick to its fate.
    1G5086_Nazca_Boobies.jpg
  • Blue-footed booby courtship (Sula nebouxii excisa)<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
By far the least common of the three booby species in Galapagos but the Blue-footed boobies are the most commanly seen as their small colonies are spread throughout the archipelago. They nest close to shore on flat areas. The nests are relatively closely spaced, but consist of nothing more than a shallow scrape in the ground. They have less than an annual breeding cycle and different colonies can be found breeding around the archipelago throughout the year. Their courtship antics are entertaining. In trying to attract a mate the male actually dances. If a female is attracted to him she will join him and together they will dance the 'booby two step'. Sexes are differentiated by the eyes. Males appear to have smaller pupils than females. (females have a darkly stained iris giving the impression of a larger pupil) The female is also larger and her voice is distinct - a honk while the male whistles. They are inshore feeders and are able to dive in shallow water. As they feed close to shore it is feasible for the parent birds to return with food sufficient for three chicks so in a good year they may raise up to three.
    1G5019_Blue-footed_booby_courtship.jpg
  • Great frigatebird (Fregata minor) - male with inflated pouch<br />
Punta Cevallos, Española or Hood Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS  ECUADOR South America<br />
RANGE: They breed in the w, e and central Pacific and Revillagigedo, Cocos and Galapagos Islands. Also on Trindade Island, Martin Vaz Island and range to Brazil. In the w Indian Ocean on Aldabra and adjacent islands as well as Christmas Island. In the S. China Sea on Paracel Island.<br />
This is one of 2 species found in Galapagos. They have the largest wingspan-to-bodyweight ratio of any bird making them highly manoeuvrable and acrobatic. These seabirds range long distances to feed, scooping fish off the surface as they can not land at sea.
    1G4667_Great_frigatebird_male.jpg
  • Medium Ground Finch (Geospiza fortis) <br />
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
ENDEMIC TO THE ISLANDS<br />
RANGE: Found on all islands in the Galapagos except Tower, Española, Darwin and Worf.<br />
It prefers the lowlands and transitional zones although it can be found feeding in the farm zones.<br />
Feeds on fallen fruit and poison apple, tree flowers, leaf buds, young green leaves, caterpillars, seeds and small insects. Some individuals have been seen cleaning parasites from the skin of giant tortoises on Alcedo Volcano on Isabela Island and on Marine Iguanas on Plazas Island.
    2G2090_Medium_Ground_Finch.jpg
  • Galapagos Hawks (Buteo galapagoensis) Male brought in Lava Lizard (Microlophus albemarlensis) to female on the nest. There is a chick in the nest (unseen) which is why they are bringing food to the nest.<br />
Española or James Island<br />
GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
This is one of the world's rarest raptors with around 800 individuals living around the islands. Although they are commonly seen they are a vulnerable species. TheY scavenge on dead carcasses as well as hunt iguanas, snakes, rats, birds etc.<br />
ENDEMIC<br />
VULNERABLE SPECIES
    1G8204_Galapagos_Hawks_&_Lava_Lizard.jpg
  • Galapagos Sealions (Zalophus wollebaeki)<br />
Gardner Bay, Española or Hood Island, GALAPAGOS ISLANDS<br />
ECUADOR.  South America<br />
Endemic
    20141220_Galapagos_Sealions_354.jpg
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