Nazca boobies, Wolf Island, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands in the eastern Pacific are a paradise for wildlife. Its habitats range from arid regions to tropical rainforests. Because these islands are so isolated, many of the species that live here are not found anywhere else in the world. One species found in abundance is the Nazca booby, pictured here on Wolf Island. The name of these striking birds might raise a few eyebrows, but it actually comes from the Spanish word 'bobo', meaning clown, because of the birds' clumsy demeanor when they're walking.
The Galápagos archipelago, including the remote and rugged outpost of Wolf Island, provides an ideal habitat for these seabirds. The island's steep cliffs and rocky shores offer perfect nesting sites, while the surrounding waters teem with fish, providing ample food. Visiting the Galápagos offers an incredible opportunity to see these birds in their natural habitat, along with the chance to explore one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.
© Tui De Roy/Minden Pictures