Today we were on Santa Cruz Island, the second largest island in the archipelago and the home of “Fausto Llerena” giant tortoise breeding center. We landed in the main dock in town and took buses to the entrance of the breeding center. Along the way we observed some land birds such as Galapagos mockingbirds, ground and cactus finches, warblers, and Galapagos flycatchers. This area is very lush and green and has a great variety of plants like the giant prickly pear cactus, candelabra cactus and mangroves.
As we arrived to the breeding center we found Galapagos giant tortoises in different life stages and learned about the great efforts done to rescue and restore these animals to their natural habitat. We also found Galapagos land iguanas that had their breeding project in captivity. This species currently has a different restoration program in semi-captivity that suits their territorial behavior.
Later on the morning we headed towards the town of Puerto Ayora where we walked along its colorful streets and had a great time looking at the fishermen’s dock and their fresh fish and the many birds and sea lions looking for free fish scraps. We also had time to contribute to the economy of this town, and went shopping at the local shops.
At the end of the morning we went to the highlands. Some of our guests had a chance to explore a local school while others went to a local farm by bike or by a local bus. Today we had lunch in a typical restaurant in the highlands, surrounded by tall trees and colorful gardens. After lunch we left the restaurant and headed towards another local farm which lies next to the giant tortoise’s reserve.
This afternoon we devoted our time looking for wild Galapagos giant tortoises, and we were marveled by the many tortoises we found; several were seen feeding, resting or walking around this farm. Galapagos giant tortoises migrate to the higher areas of the island looking for food and water. The migration path for tortoises usually goes through the local farms which is the best chance for us to find these giant reptiles.
After this great experience with tortoises we returned to town and returned aboard. Some scientists from the Charles Darwin Research Station visited our ship and told us more about their current research in Galapagos.
Our day ended on Santa Cruz Island with the visit of local musicians and dancers that entertained us with their music and colorful costumes.
