Galapagos Volcano Erupts, Threatens Rare Iguanas

Officials hope unique pink iguanas 'will not be affected'
By Arden Dier,  Newser Staff
Posted May 26, 2015 7:00 AM CDT
Galapagos Volcano Erupts, Threatens Rare Iguanas
Wolf volcano erupts at Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Monday, May 25, 2015.   (Diego Paredes Photo via AP)

Wolf Volcano on the Galapagos Islands rumbled to life yesterday for the first time in 33 years, sending smoke billowing into the air and lava spewing down onto Isabela Island. As the nearest inhabitants live about 70 miles away from the volcano, there is no risk to humans, reports AFP. However, Galapagos National Park officials fear for wildlife, including "the world's only population" of pink iguanas. On the bright side, lava is flowing in the opposite direction of the iguanas' habitat, "which raises hopes that they will not be affected," park officials say. Still, lava is expected to reach the ocean, which could affect marine life, Reuters reports. (More Galapagos Islands stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X