Galapagos Islands Trip

Exploring the

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands have long been a focus of scientific research, most famously by Charles Darwin, who wrote On the Origin of Species based on his observations there. Two groups of Magnificat students and faculty were able to join this tradition of scientific inquiry in June and August through field expeditions with Ecology Project International. The 12-day trips centered on island ecology, with students collecting conservation data on giant tortoises as they explored secluded islands and observed unique biodiversity.

Snorkeling for a marine organism survey

Performing a microplastic beach study at Tortuga Bay Inn the Galapagos National Park and observing marine iguanas and sea lions

Photos courtesy of science faculty members Beth McBride and Heidi Paul.

Exploring a lava tube in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island

Helping with a park clean up

Sharing results from their own research projects