Island Facts
The Galapagos are located off the coast of which country?
Ecuador
Which bird species did Charles Darwin study, especially in regard to their beak size?
Finches
Since the islands were isolated from each other, ____________________.
...species adapted differently on each island.
Isolated
Separate or apart from something else; remote
Big
Ex: Enormous, massive, colossal, giant
The Galapagos sit on a line that circle Earth. What is the name of this line?
Equator
Which reptiles adapted differently on Santa Cruz Island vs Isabela Island, and can live over 100 years?
Giant tortoises
Giant tortoises love to eat prickly pear cactus. As a result, ____________________.
...the cactus grew taller, and formed a bark-like covering around its base.
Evolution
The process of changing and adapting to an environment over time
Small
Ex: Tiny, microscopic, miniature, pocket-size
What geological feature(s) emerged from the ocean and formed the islands?
Volcanoes
Which plant grew taller on Isabela Island to avoid being eaten by giant tortoises?
Prickly pear cactus
The prickly pear cactus grew taller. In response, the giant tortoises ____________________.
...adapted by forming a notch in their shells so that their necks could reach higher up to eat the cactus pads.
Conserve
To preserve or protect something from harm, loss, or waste
Special
Ex: Unique, extraordinary, uncommon, notable
Isabela
How did iguanas arrive to the Galapagos?
Floating on logs or rafts of debris from South America
A drought (time passing with no rain) occurred, making the seeds tougher. Therefore, ____________________.
...finches with large beaks prospered, and they became more common.
Deliberately
On purpose
Popular
Ex: Well-known, famous, legendary, prominent
Approximately what percentage of the islands are protected as national park land?
97%
Why did species on the islands evolve in unique ways?
The islands are isolated and have different environments
A rainy season occurred, making the seeds softer. Therefore, ____________________.
...finches with smaller beaks prospered, and their offspring became more common.
Archipelago
Many islands close to each other (e.g. Japan, Hawaii, Galapagos, Bahamas)
Beautiful
Ex: Stunning, gorgeous, breathtaking, magnificent