Students and faculty spend spring break in Galapagos

Galapagos

Three faculty members and 13 students spent an adventure-packed week in the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), as part of a 5-credit study abroad course. Led by Dr. Joel Hagen, this course is a combination of an introduction to evolution and an advanced biology seminar course. What better way to learn about evolution than to visit the "birthplace" of the theory's development! Students and faculty visited five islands in the archipelago, and spent over a week hiking, snorkeling, and visiting research and education centers. Presentations highlighted management and conservation of these unique islands, home to a wealth of endemic species. Day trips focused on observing the habitats and behaviors of a number of charismatic species, including sea lions, magnificent frigatebirds, land and marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies [birds], and the famed Galapagos tortoises. Highlights included swims with sharks, rays, sea lions, seals, and sea turtles.

Mar 20, 2013
Karen Francl
540.831.6537
kfrancl@radford.edu