> Known for unusual wildlife, the Galápagos Islands are a province of whichcountry?And the answer: Ecuador. Located in the Pacific Ocean about 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador, the 19Galápagos Islands were formed by volcanic activity and are near the confluenceof three ocean currents. The islands are home to unusual plants and animals,such as the giant tortoise.Image: kids.britannica.comWith 97% of the land that comprises the Galápagosreserved as a national park, there's seemingly no limit to the abundant wildlifeand natural wonder within these islands. Otherwise known as the "EnchantedIsles," Galápagos National Park – established over 60 years ago throughpresidential decree – has taken the lead in facilitating important biologicalstudies, whose conclusions have helped guide conservation and protection effortsin the region. Photo credit: Diego Delso.And good thing, too: the wildlife which comprises theregion is some of the most unique in the world. In fact, the Galápagos Islandsare the only place in the Northern Hemisphere where you can see penguins intheir natural habitat. The Galápagos penguin is the second smallest species ofits kind and is typically observed on the western islands of Isabela andFernandina. Scientists believe this is possible due to the unique marine and aircurrents which meet in this region. Due to its proximity to the equator, Galápagos Islands enjoy around 12 hours ofdaily sunlight year round – there's no need for that pesky daylight savings!This also means that weather on the islands is temperate year round, providingplenty of time to see daytime and nocturnal animals. Luckily, the creaturesfound in the islands have very little fear of people due to the lack of naturalpredators. While visitors are recommended to stay at least 6 feet away fromwildlife at all times, sometimes the wildlife wants to get, well, a little bitcloser.Photo credit: galapagosinformation.com[https://galapagosinformation.com/blog/cruises-to-the-galapagos-islands-for-13-people-june-2023/].Learn more about the Galápagos Islands here [Galápagos].