Refugio de vida silvestre Isla Santa Clara, Wildlife sanctuary on a coastal island in El Oro Province, Ecuador.
Refugio de vida silvestre Isla Santa Clara is a protected area comprising Santa Clara Island and nearby smaller islands in the Gulf of Guayaquil. The landscape features rocky outcrops, sandy coves, and dense mangrove areas that shelter a diverse range of marine and bird species.
The island shows signs of early settlement from the pre-colonial period, with archaeological evidence linking it to inhabitants from nearby Isla Puna. During Spanish colonial times, it served as a defensive position to guard the gulf.
The sanctuary functions as a working research station where scientists study seabird behavior and marine life up close. It has become a place where conservation efforts are visible in daily operations, allowing visitors to experience the importance of ocean protection.
The island is reachable by boat from Puerto Bolivar, with the journey taking around two hours and depending on sea conditions. Bring sun protection, water, and sturdy footwear, as weather can change quickly on the water and the terrain is uneven.
The island hosts tens of thousands of seabirds from multiple species, including frigatebirds, pelicans, and blue-footed boobies in their natural behavior. This bird concentration is so important that the area earned international wetland recognition more than 20 years ago.
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