Galapagos Volcano Erupts, But Rare Pink Iguanas Safe for Now
The towering Wolf volcano on Isabela Island—the largest in the Galapagos—has erupted, sending plumes of smoke and ash thousands of metres into the sky. Fortunately, the rare pink iguanas living on its slopes appear unharmed.
Wolf Volcano: A Deadly Spectacle Far From Humans
Wolf is the highest volcano in the Galapagos, situated some 100 kilometres (62 miles) from the nearest human settlement. On Friday, the Galapagos National Park reported the volcano was spewing ash northward over uninhabited areas, posing no immediate risk to people.
- Eight park rangers and scientists quickly checked the situation on the volcano’s slopes.
- They found the pink iguanas’ habitat safely distant from the eruption and impact zone.
- No extra protection measures are deemed necessary at this time.
Pink Iguanas: Galapagos’ Rarest Reptile
The pink iguana, first identified in 1986 and recognised as a distinct species in 2009, is one of the most vulnerable creatures on these volcanic islands. Just 211 were recorded on Isabela as of last August, confined to a tiny 25 sq km patch on Wolf’s slopes.
These elusive reptiles join the famous Galapagos giant tortoises and yellow iguanas in an archipelago famed for its unique wildlife and Charles Darwin’s groundbreaking evolutionary studies.
Galapagos: Nature’s Marvels Under Protection
Located about 1,000 km (600 miles) off Ecuador’s coast, the Galapagos Islands are a protected sanctuary for extraordinary flora and fauna. Conservation groups like the UK-based Galapagos Conservation Trust work tirelessly to preserve these irreplaceable species.
The latest volcanic activity is a stark reminder of the natural drama shaping this extraordinary wildlife haven—yet, for now, the pink iguanas remain safe on their volcanic home.
