Reserva Ecológica Pajaro Brujo

Did you ever wonder what a “Pajaro Brujo” is? It translates to “Witch Bird” or more commonly “Dark-rumped Petrel”. This elusive seabird nests high in the volcanic highlands and is rarely seen. Here at the Reserva Ecológica Pajaro Brujo, we find not just the bird’s namesake, but an incredible array of Galapagos wildlife. The Reserva Ecológica Pajaro Brujo, established in 2005 by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), spans 84 hectares. It’s located in the Santa Rosa Parish on Santa Cruz Island, right next to Galapagos National Park. TNC purchased this land to protect the unique cloud forest. They aimed to preserve important habitat for iconic Galapagos species. The reserve is a testament to conservation efforts in the Galapagos. The Nature Conservancy originally established a trust fund to manage the Reserva Ecológica Pajaro Brujo. Fundación FUNDAR Galapagos was designated the beneficiary. They continue to manage the reserve to this day. TNC continues to monitor the reserve’s management plan. In 2017, TNC and Fundación FUNDAR Galapagos began exploring new ways to ensure the long-term protection of this ecological treasure. They updated the management plan, searching for local partnerships to secure the Reserva Ecológica Pajaro Brujo’s future. This reserve plays a crucial role in the delicate ecosystem of the Galapagos. It provides a sanctuary for species like the Galapagos tortoise and Darwin’s flycatcher. It also serves as a demonstration center for restoring these delicate ecosystems and implementing sustainable practices. The Reserva Ecológica Pajaro Brujo stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of collaboration. It embodies the ongoing commitment to preserving the Galapagos Islands for generations to come.