Almost everyone knows today that the strange creatures of Galapagos and their adaptations what inspire Charles Darwin to come with the Theory of Evolution. Located on one of the most active volcanic regions on the earth, the Galapagos archipelago has formed because of numerous volcanic eruptions and is known throughout the world for numerous natural treasures. One of the most fascinating things about this wonderful archipelago is that a vast majority of these species which inspire Charles Darwin are still living, soaring, crawling, and slithering on this wonderful archipelago. If you love to explore something unique and fascinating in your every trip, planning for Galapagos travel is one of the best options for you. There are many things in Galapagos which can blow your mind. Continue reading to know about the 4 strange animal adaptations which you have not seen before.
1. A Finch That Drinks Blood
The Galapagos archipelago is the habitat of more than thirteen species of finches. Each of the finch species evolved from the same ancestor to survive in different ecological niches. While all finches alike but they can be easily distinguished by their size, shape, beak and food source. For instance, finches having thick beaks usually eat seeds and nuts wherein finches having probing beaks usually eat insects. In Galapagos, you can also find finches that drink blood too. Popularly known as vampire finches, such species of finches use their sharp and point berks to drink the blood of other birds like blue-footed boobies.
2. A Finch That Builds and Utilizes Tools for Preying
If exploring vampire finches not seem too much surprising for you, how about the finches that makes and uses tools? Woodpecker finches made and use wooden tools to locate and drive out insects from the bark of the tree or even for impaling them. In several researches, it has been also concluded that half of the finches utilize some types of tools for preying insects. So, it would not be wrong to say that woodpecker finches are bona fide tool makers as well.
3. A Reptile That Gets Shorter
Marine Iguana is one of the major centers of attraction of Galapagos because of numerous reasons. It is the only one kind of lizard which can dive underwater. Having a short and incredibly strong tail, marine iguana can dive up to forty feet under the sea water. Besides, this unique species can also shorten its body length during the lean times.
4. A Cormorant That “Flies” Underwater
The flightless cormorant is another major center of attraction which you can explore during your Galapagos travel. Founded mainly around the Isabela and Fernandina islands, flightless cormorant is the only species of cormorant which cannot fly. The dense body, webbed feet, small wings, and powerful legs of this unique species enable it to plunge to the sea floor for hunting fish.
Apart from the above-mentioned wonders, there are many more natural treasures which you can explore during your Galapagos travel. If you are considering for Galapagos travel, it is advised to do a complete study about the major center of attractions of this wonderful archipelago to plan a surprising and enjoyable trip for you and your loved ones.
