{"id":1473,"date":"2025-10-08T13:45:04","date_gmt":"2025-10-08T13:45:04","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.kiwaniscluboflombard.org\/?p=1473"},"modified":"2025-10-13T11:57:45","modified_gmt":"2025-10-13T11:57:45","slug":"the-enchanted-islands-extraordinary-galapagos-encounters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.kiwaniscluboflombard.org\/index.php\/2025\/10\/08\/the-enchanted-islands-extraordinary-galapagos-encounters\/","title":{"rendered":"The Enchanted Islands: Extraordinary Galapagos Encounters"},"content":{"rendered":"

By Alyssa Corasanti, WWF<\/em><\/p>\n

The Galapagos Islands, situated in the Pacific Ocean, are renowned for their diverse ecosystem. The islands, many of them perfectly preserved and nearly untouched by human development, are a haven for wildlife and a slice of heaven for adventurers looking to disconnect from the \u201creal world\u201d and immerse themselves in the natural world.<\/p>\n

As I think back on my once-in-a-lifetime adventure<\/a> through the archipelago, I recall some of my favorite encounters throughout the Galapagos that underscore what makes this magical place live up to its nickname: the Enchanted Islands.<\/p>\n

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Swimming with Galapagos Sea Lions<\/h2>\n

We first met the sea lions<\/a> on the beaches of North Seymour, where we embarked on what looked to be a pile of rocks. These rocks, however, upon closer inspection, were sea lions curled up in the sun and unbothered as we excitedly gathered around and exclaimed how adorable they were.<\/p>\n

At first sight, it appears that Galapagos sea lions are abundant on the islands. The social species can be seen in large groups cuddled up along the shore on almost every beach. Despite seeing groups of sea lions at every turn, we learned that populations declined dramatically through the 80s and 90s due to climate change.<\/p>\n

We had many sea lion interactions during our adventure, but one of the most magical moments was during our first snorkel off Isla Lobos. The inquisitive animals are known to play with snorkelers, but the opportunity to experience their playful personalities first-hand was an unforgettable moment.<\/p>\n

Just as you would start swimming forward, a sea lion would sneak up and swim head-on toward you, only to turn at the last moment and swirl around you. It was hilarious, a bit scary, and an experience we talked about for the rest of our trip.<\/p>\n

\"Sea<\/p>\n

\u00a9 Alyssa Corasanti \/ WWF-US<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Hiking with Blue-Footed Boobies<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

Half of the world\u2019s breeding population of the blue-footed booby<\/a> calls the Galapagos home and it\u2019s hard to miss them once you get to the islands. They\u2019re incredibly easy to spot with their trademark bright-blue webbed feet and clumsy waddle as they tramp up and down the beach.<\/p>\n

As we hiked along the coast of North Seymour, we had our first sighting: a mama with her newly hatched babies. The chicks were still growing feathers and let out little squawks as we walked by.<\/p>\n

\"Baby<\/p>\n

\u00a9 Alyssa Corasanti \/ WWF-US<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Further down the path, loud caws and a scuffle caught our attention. Two male blue-footed boobies were dancing around a female, stomping their feet and stretching their wings, occasionally bucking at each other and colliding their beaks. Despite the attempts to impress her with their stunning blue feet and coordinated dance, the female flew away.<\/p>\n

We were fortunate to get these little glimpses into their life, but we also learned these seabirds were just as curious about us as we were about them. On several occasions, we had to slink by them as they fearlessly strolled up to our group to observe us.<\/p>\n

The mutual interest forged a connection between us and the blue-footed boobies, highlighting the importance of responsible ecotourism<\/a> and the need to prioritize the conservation of their natural habitats to ensure a sustainable coexistence.<\/p>\n

\"Two<\/p>\n

\u00a9 Alyssa Corasanti \/ WWF-US<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Cruising with Dolphins<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n

We marveled at the playfulness and careful coordination of the dolphins as they kept a perfect cadence to sail along with us. The collective celebration and joy shared among the passengers during these spontaneous encounters further enriched our adventure. These majestic moments highlighted the diversity of the ecosystem, unveiling delightful surprises at every turn.<\/p>\n

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Sailing toward our next destination, we heard a loud bell clanging and a crew member shouting, \u201cdelfin!\u201d We rushed to the bow and peered over to see four bottlenose dolphins<\/a> gliding alongside our boat.<\/p>\n