National Parks in Galapagos
Galapagos National Parks occupy most of the land and are considered a haven for nature lovers. The island is also considered a hot property for exotic animals and birds. The animals which are housed in the safe confines of the National Parks in Galapagos are considered unique and exclusive in nature.
An Area Dedicated To Wildlife
The Galapagos National Parks are stated to control over 75% of the total land in the island territory. It is also said that inhabitants occupy only three percent and are lodged in Santa Cruiz, San Christobal, Floreana and Isabela. National Parks in Galapagos took birth in the year 1959. The national park had its first superintendent in the year 1971. He was assisted in his mission by two officers and six range attendants. The Santa Cruz Island also managed to get its first management team in the year 1973. It was a systematic set up which comprised of a proctor, two officers and over forty park rangers to overlook the conservation process.
A Major Development
UNESCO declared the Galapagos Islands as Natural Heritage For Humanity in the year 1979, which allowed the park superintendent to exercise complete control over the Galapagos National Parks and safeguard its flora and fauna from any external disturbance. The first marine reserve was created in the year 1986 and was called Galapagos Marine Reserve. In the same year, the Galapagos Nation Park was included in the list of Biosphere reserves. The park is known for its scientific worth and needs to be kept free from human habitation.
Sad News And Strict Measures
In the year 2008, it was discovered by the park superintendent that over sixty sea lions had been slaughtered by poachers at Pinta. In the year 2001, the poachers had killed 35 sea lions in Galapagos National Park. This incident led to the induction of the basic park rules, which were supposed to be followed by all visiting tourists and enforced by the park authorities.
Do’s And Don’t’s In The Park Premises
The National Park in Galapagos has a few rules and regulations which are considered imperative for both the game rangers as well as the visiting tourists. According to the rule book, no plant, animal or natural object can be displaced from its original location. You cannot take a live animal or plant in and out of the sanctuary, nor can you touch or fondle the animal. You cannot feed, startle or chase an animal. You cannot dirty the park by throwing food and cannot deface the natural rocks by etching your name. Any souvenirs made from plants or animals are supposed to be avoided and you cannot enter the park unless accompanied by a licensed park ranger.
A Parting Suggestion From Galapagos National Park
You also need to display a conservationist approach and ensure that the park is kept neat and clean. At the same time, it needs to be noted that all your visits need to be restricted to officially approved areas only.
