The common cactus finch is most commonly found on the Galapagos islands. It lives on all the islands with the exception of Fernandina island, Española island, Genoveva island, Darwin island and Wolf islands. It is most likely to be found in dry shrubland and woodland.
Adaptation
They have adapted to their environments by developing a short pointed beak to break through the outer skin of cacti to get to the inner pulp, which they then eat. They also have long beaks, which enable them to eat the pollen of flowers.
Natural Selection
In contrast, there is also a warbler finch that has a completely different diet that consists of fruit and small insects. However, the common cactus finches diet consists of prickly pear cactus pulp and flowers. If the insects that the warbler finch eats suddenly go extinct, then the cactus finch will have a better chance of survival. However, if the prickly pear cactus went extinct, then the warbler finch would have a better chance at survival, yet another example of the theory of evolution.
Research
Darwin has studied a variety of finches on the Galapagos, giving them the title Darwin’s finches. Jhon Gould assisted Darwin in cataloging them.
Evolutionary Process
As the world around them is changing, they have to move inland to avoid the trash on the shore. Where food was plentiful, they would probably be found as long as it was inland. They are now found all over the Galapagos, with the exception of Fernandina Island, Española Island, and Genoveva Islands.
About the Author
Maria Kalen is an 8-year-old girl who lives in Werribee, Victoria, Australia. From a young age, she has always loved telling stories, whether it’s sharing imaginative tales with her friends or creating epic adventures with her favorite toys.
When she’s not busy writing, Kalen, as she is affectionately called, enjoys exploring nature while going for weekend park runs and cycling. She also loves playing with her two younger sisters, whom she often includes in her imaginative play.
In school, Kalen is known for her enthusiasm and creativity. She excels in subjects like English and math. Outside of school, Kalen loves visiting the local library, different parks, and play centers.