Galapagos: A Natural History Guide

by Pierre Constant

Since its creation in 1968, the Galápagos National Park has been considered by UNESCO as one of the jewels of the planet. Long regarded as a mysterious and desolate archipelago, this wildlife paradise is a true showcase of evolution in action. In recent years, the newly developed Marine Reserve fulfills the ultimate purpose of the National Park Service―protection and conservation of the region, following decades of abuse by illegal fishing.

This guide describes the rich human history, the geology and origin of the islands, the "El Nino" phenomenon, the amazing natural history, villages and visitors' sites, and provides insights into the regions' fascinating residents―sea birds, endemic land birds, prehistoric reptiles, playful sea lions and the incomparably enchanting underwater world. 180 color photos, 70 maps

Genres: Nonfiction, Reference, Science

316 pages, Paperback

First published December 15, 1998

Reviews

[Catherine Woodman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book that I have read in preparation for a trip to the island archipelago, and here is what I thought. The geology of the islands, which is purportedly the thing that interested Darwin most about them, is detailed in both understandable writing as well as pictures (there are photographs as well as simple line drawings that spell it all out quite clearly. I skipped Earth Sciences in high school and never doubled back to study it at all, so if I can understand it, pretty much anyone can follow it). The other thing that stands out in the comprehensive cataloging of the flora and fauna is the extensive photographs, which help a visual person manage the large amount of data in your head. The background on why these things are significant is scanter than in other volumes on the same subject, but overall, it adds to what I have already read, and I would recommend it, especially to certain kinds of learners and those with specific interests in the Galapagos.

[June · Rating 3 out of 5]

Older edition though, wish I’d have read it before decided to go down there. Beautiful photos of wild life and free-hand drawings uncommon in any current guide books.
I found a few incoherences.

[Gary Ganong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thorough explanation of the geology, flora and fauna of the Galapagos Islands.

[Johanna DeBiase · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a bit dry, but a great book if you are interested in natural history of the Galapagos. It covers everything.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative. worth reading before going to Galapagos.