Galapagos rail returns to Floreana after nearly 200 years
The Galapagos rail was spotted again on Floreana Island in the Galapagos archipelago. This discovery is extremely valuable, as this species was believed to be locally extinct. Why has this delicate creature returned?
The Galapagos rail (Laterallus spilonota), a bird known for its elusive behavior, was observed again on Floreana Island for the first time since Charles Darwin saw it there in 1835. This species, which inhabits only the Galapagos Islands, is particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Success of the fauna restoration project
According to islandconservation.org, a project aimed at removing invasive species, such as rats and feral cats that threatened local birds, was started on Floreana Island two years ago. Thanks to this, the Laterallus spilonota and other species, like cactus finches, have begun to return to the island.
Paula Castaño from Island Conservation highlighted that the resurgence of the Galapagos rail, Laterallus spilonota, demonstrates a global pattern—eliminating invasive species allows native wildlife to recover remarkably.
New discoveries and future plans
The presence of Laterallus spilonota has been recorded in three locations on Floreana Island, far from human settlements. Scientists are now investigating whether the birds survived in hiding for 190 years or came from nearby islands. Plans are in place to introduce more of these birds and 11 other locally extinct species to help restore the ecosystem.
