Galapagos rail returns: A triumph for fauna restoration efforts
The Galapagos rail has been spotted once again on Floreana Island in the Galapagos archipelago. This discovery is particularly 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 behaviour, has been observed on Floreana Island for the first time since Charles Darwin saw it there in 1835. This species, which inhabits only the Galapagos Islands, is especially 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 initiated on Floreana Island two years ago. Thanks to this effort, the Laterallus spilonota and other species, like the 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, away from human settlements. Scientists are now exploring whether the birds survived in hiding for 190 years or migrated from nearby islands. Plans are underway to introduce more of these birds and 11 other locally extinct species to help restore the ecosystem.
