Area of Study: Turtles

Fernando de Noronha, an island with incredibly fragile ecosystems, has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. Over hundreds of thousands of years, the island evolved in perfect harmony. However, the arrival of humans and the invasive species they brought with them have disrupted this delicate balance. The introduction of rats in the 16th century is a prime example. In the case of Fernando de Noronha, rats have been linked to the decline of many endemic species, including the loss of native bird populations and small mammals, some of which may have been driven to extinction. Rats also prey on the eggs and chicks of native birds, further exacerbating their decline. In an attempt to control the rat population, the Teju lizard was introduced to the island as a natural predator. Ironically, the Teju failed in its role and became an invasive species itself. Rather than controlling the rat population, the Teju now competes with native species for resources, preys on the eggs of endemic birds, and disrupts sea turtle nesting sites, putting both bird and turtle populations at further risk. In this project, the team conducts fieldwork joining the team of ICMBio to address the growing problem of invasive species on Fernando de Noronha. By setting traps in new locations, the team has achieved promising results. The project follows the entire process of invasive species population control, from start to finish, gathering critical data that can guide future conservation efforts. With the information gathered, the team aims to help preserve the island’s unique ecosystems, protect endemic species, and mitigate the long-term ecological damage caused by invasive species, all while aiding in the island’s ongoing recovery from historical human impact. Gabriel Leralta Garcia was born on the small island of La Gomera, a paradise surrounded by nature. He has studied to be a senior technician in physical activity and sports, allowing him to work with children and teach values through sports. Passionate about the environment, Gabriel also studied renewable energies, aiming to contribute to solving the world’s climate issues. He has volunteered for various environmental projects, including bird and bat censuses, eradication programs for invasive species, and conservation of endangered endemic species across national and natural parks (WWF, SEO Spanish Society of Ornithology). He was part of the research team involved in the La Palma volcano study in 2021 and has worked on various archaeological and environmental projects, including as a forest ranger in a national park. His passion for the environment and its preservation motivated his participation in the Darwin200 program.