Galapagos Islands year 1991 WWF – Turtles, Penguins FDC set

Galapagos Islands year 1991 WWF – Turtles, Penguins FDC set

1991 stamp set from the Galapagos Islands, also part of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) series, featuring turtles and penguins.

In 1991, Ecuador issued a set of WWF stamps focusing on the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its incredible biodiversity. This particular set highlighted two of the archipelago’s most famous residents: Galapagos tortoises and Galapagos penguins.

1. Galapagos Tortoises: These are the largest living species of tortoise and one of the longest-lived vertebrates, with some individuals reaching over 100 years old. They’re famous for their role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. The stamps likely depicted one or more of the various subspecies found on different islands.
2. Galapagos Penguins: These are the only penguins that live north of the equator in the wild. They’re also one of the smallest penguin species. Their presence on the stamps highlights the unique climate of the Galapagos, influenced by cold ocean currents that allow these typically cold-weather birds to thrive near the equator.

The WWF stamp series is significant because:

• Conservation: It raises awareness about threatened species. Both the tortoises and penguins face challenges like habitat loss and climate change.
• Artwork: WWF stamps often feature beautiful, scientifically accurate illustrations by wildlife artists.
• Fundraising: Part of the stamp sales goes to WWF for conservation efforts.
• Education: These stamps teach people about unique ecosystems like the Galapagos.

The 1991 Galapagos set would have been particularly interesting because it showcases two very different animals (a reptile and a bird) that have both uniquely adapted to this remote island environment.