There are 58 resident bird species on the Galapagos, nearly half of which are endemic . In addition to the resident species there are up to 30 migrant species, of which half a dozen are frequently seen and the rest are occasionally recorded. |
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Galapagos is a bird kingdom. Darwin described 26 endemic species of finch, now collectively known as 'Darwin's finches'. The largest bird in the islands is the waved albatross, which can stay out at sea for long periods of time.
They nest only on the island of Española, which is where you can witness their remarkable courtship 'dance'.
Blue-footed boobies by contrast seem to be perched on the rocks of every island.
But they too have a courtship ritual, and the collective dancing of a booby colony makes for a spectacular display.
The frigate bird, easily recognized by its forked tail, can soar for hours without flapping their wings.
One of the largest nesting colonies is on Genovesa, where in spring male frigate birds puff up huge, red throat pouches to attract females.
The birds on the islands are so plentiful, even the most casual visitor is certain to see 20 to 30 different species in the course of a week. |
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