Freddy Villamar: Protector of the Galapagos against invasive species
"I'm from the Galapagos. I was born in Puerto Ayora in 1980. My mom's family settled in the highlands of Santa Cruz in 1950, and my dad arrived in 1975," says Freddy.
Freddy has seen the archipelago change a lot over the years. "When I was ten, life here was very different. The population was much smaller. Now, more than 35,000 people live here. Some species have become extinct, and others are endangered because of invasive species brought in by air or sea. We're facing many problems and threats that didn't exist before," says Freddy, who has dedicated himself to reversing these changes in the islands.
He started working in conservation at the age of 21 in the Galapagos National Park, helping to eradicate invasive species in Isabela and Santiago islands.
"We worked hard to get rid of goats and donkeys in very challenging circumstanceswe had to cross some pretty rough and tough terrain. It was difficult but rewarding, and it made me think about what I wanted to do next."
Over time, he gained more experience in eradicating introduced species. He's worked on almost all of the Galapagos islands and also on Isla de la Plata in Manabí, defending each place's unique ecology.
"I know Floreana like the back of my hand. I've flown all over the island and sailed all around its shores. We're working hard to ensure the results are long-lasting," Freddy says.
Being part of the team that has implemented crucial invasive species eradication efforts in Floreana, in collaboration with international teams, has marked a turning point in his career.
Freddy explains that advanced technologies, such as helicopters for bait dispersal, drones with thermal detections to monitor nocturnal movements of invasive species, and an extensive camera trap system, have all been employed. These technologies provide crucial data for post-eradication monitoring. He notes that it is a complex and labor-intensive process, but significant progress is being made in safeguarding wildlife and advancing Floreana's ecological restoration.
As he continues his work in Floreana, he's leaving a conservation legacy for the future.
"What we're doing in Floreana is a big step forward. I'm 40 years old. I have three daughters who are still quite young. I want to take care of the Galapagos for them, for our future, and for the next generations. I want them to be able to say with pride: "My dad was involved in the ecological restoration of Floreana to take care of Galapagos".
Freddy is already looking forward to a bright future for Floreana.
"I hope the native species we reintroduce to the island take hold, that the Floreana Mockingbird and the Little Vermilion Flycatcher return, that the finches and the tortoises adapt. Let's hope that Floreana can serve as an example, showing people that it's possible to restore the islands here, and across the globe."
Your support allows Freddy and many other conservation heroes to keep up their great work of breathing new life into Floreana. You can make a donation here.
