Unveiling the Secrets of the Galápagos Penguin: Science and Passion in Action
What drives a scientist to dedicate their life to conservation? The question is ambiguous, and the answer is complex. Some might say they were inspired by figures like David Attenborough, Jane Goodall, or Sylvia Earle; others may have had a family member who guided them along the way. In my case, it was something different: an innate curiosity about the wild world and, above all, an awareness of how fragile the environment is. I chose to become a scientist because I wanted to fight for and protect endangered species, and I realized that science was the best tool to achieve that.
From the early stages of my career, I have had the opportunity to work on various conservation projects. I started as part of a research team studying the spectacled bear in Ecuador, and in 2017, I joined the Charles Darwin Foundation (CDF) in the Galápagos Islands, where I worked on the conservation of the Mangrove Finch, and later on the Giant Tortoise Restoration Initiative. In 2021, I completed an internship in the Peruvian Amazon, focusing on wildlife rescue and management. Currently, I am a Research Assistant in the CDF’s Marine Bird Conservation Program, which focuses on endangered species such as the Galápagos Penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus). This project has allowed me to acquire knowledge in scientific research and the development of conservation programs based on robust data, using science as a tool for species and ecosystem preservation.
Marlón Ramón
Leslie León/CDF
Science in Action: The Marine Bird Conservation Project
This project is as broad as it is fascinating, and its main challenge is to understand the population status of species such as the vibrant blue-footed boobies (Sula nebouxii), the majestic waved albatross (Phoebastria irrorata), the enigmatic flightless cormorant (Phalacrocorax harrisi), and, of course, the penguins. To do so, we focus on studying their population trends, survival rates, reproductive success, and more. Each data point we collect is a key piece in designing effective conservation strategies. But it’s not just about numbers and statistics; we aim to uncover how each of these species plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance.
To achieve this, we conduct scientific expeditions to their habitats to assess the factors impacting their populations. One of the key methods in our research is individual marking using plastic or metal rings and microchips (PIT-tags) for each individual. These microchips contain a unique identification number implanted subcutaneously, which does not affect the bird’s quality of life and provides valuable data on behavior, survival, and movement—essential information for designing long-term conservation strategies.
One of my most impactful expeditions was to the western part of the archipelago, where I had the opportunity to closely observe penguins. What fascinated me the most was discovering the unique spot patterns on their bellies, which differ from individual to individual. During our second trip, as part of the comprehensive marine bird census in the archipelago, I attempted to apply this knowledge and realized that these patterns could serve as an alternative method for identifying them individually. This technique could be a useful way to reduce stress on the animals compared to the PIT-tag implantation
Galápagos Penguin Curiosities: How Do We Identify Them?
Galápagos penguins have unique patterns on their pectoral and ventral plumage, similar to human fingerprints. These spots, composed of black feathers on their white chest, vary in shape, size, and position, making them key for precise identification. In a recent study conducted by CDF scientists (Reyes et al. 2024), a specialized software called the Interactive Individual Identification System (I3S) was used to analyze 402 photos of 285 penguins taken over several years. They discovered that in 70% of cases, they could correctly identify a penguin by comparing just two previous photos!
Unfortunately, the study was not without challenges. When analyzing the images, researchers found significant variations in spot patterns over the years. Juvenile penguins, with more clustered and less defined spots, saw these patterns separate as they grew, with the distance between spots increasing in adulthood, which reduced the matching accuracy and made identification more difficult over time. This highlighted that while photography can be a powerful tool, it has limitations when tracking a penguin throughout different life stages.
In addition to expanding their database with unique images and patterns, the team explored the connections between different colonies. To their surprise, they discovered that some penguins migrated between islands and nesting areas and that their plumage patterns were a key tool for tracking their movements. This finding was not just a scientific curiosity—it also provided an opportunity to better understand the behavior of these birds and their adaptation to environmental changes.
Identifying penguins by their plumage offers a less invasive and potentially effective alternative for short-term monitoring. However, improvements are still needed in individual identification accuracy, the number of photographs taken per penguin and colony, the cleaning of body areas for photography, and image capture conditions. This method could complement the use of microchips or markers in case of failure, though their loss is rare.
Carlos Espinosa/CDF
Why Is It Important to Protect Galápagos Penguins?
Ranked as the second smallest penguin species on the planet and with a population of fewer than 2,000 individuals, the Galápagos penguin is one of the rarest species. This makes their conservation crucial, as they serve as indicator and sentinel species—monitoring their population health provides insights into the overall condition of the surrounding marine environment.
Their population has drastically declined due to factors such as climate change, bycatch in fisheries, and the introduction of invasive species. Each penguin we identify and monitor is one step closer to protecting the entire species. Moreover, these animals symbolize both the fragility and beauty of Galápagos—a reminder that we must act now to preserve this paradise before it becomes just a memory.
As part of the Marine Bird Conservation Program, we not only collect key data for the conservation of Galápagos penguins, but we also strengthen our connection with their environment. Our work combines science and commitment to ensure their survival, reminding us that with effort, conservation can make a difference.
Tara Cango
A Lifelong Commitment
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of being part of teams dedicated to conservation, and every day in Galápagos reaffirms my decision to be a scientist. Here, surrounded by nature and wildlife, I find the motivation to keep moving forward, overcoming challenges, and continuously discovering new things. I am exactly where I want to be—every effort and sacrifice contributes to the protection of this unique ecosystem. Working with penguins and other marine birds has not only propelled my professional growth but has also strengthened my commitment to conservation. Galápagos is more than just a workplace; it is my home and a constant reminder that every action counts.
And You, What Will You Do to Protect This Natural Treasure?