Know how the Galapagos finches from Charles Darwin's specimen collection helped him in the formulation of his theory of evolution, particularly the woodpecker finch

Although he didn't realize it at the time, the most important specimens that Charles Darwin brought back from the Galapagos were finches. Initially, he wasn't sure how they were related. But when, back in England, they were examined by the ornithologists John Gould, he reported that in fact, Darwin had bought back 13 different species of finch, all of which were unique to the Galapagos. This realization played a significant role in Darwin's formulation of his theory of evolution.

The most important differences between the finches came in their beaks. Some were large. Some were small. Each one was suited to the availability of particular foodstuffs. Eventually Darwin theorized that different species of finch had evolved on different islands, their distinctive beaks being an adaptation to distinct natural habitats or environmental niches.

In the years since Darwin's visit, many other scientists and ornithologists have come to the Galapagos to study its finches. In this experiment, researchers are observing the woodpecker finch, using this wooden box to stand in for a tree

The woodpecker finch is one of the only birds to use tools to help him find food. A stick or small twig enables it to dig deeper into tree bark for insect larvae. This skill enables it to survive in conditions which other birds would find difficult. In the dry season, it can gather up to 50% of its food in this way. Woodpecker finches are hungry birds, which in the wild need to eat every three hours. So they never turn down the chance of a free meal.