insect-eating species that roosts on mangroves and shrubs. It is found on Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, Isabela, Santiago, and Floreana. The Galápagos red bat (Lasiurus blossevillii brachyotis) inhabits Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal, where feeds near the ground on insects. Conservation and threats Most of the islands' land and marine area is permanently protected. Invasive species are considered the greatest current threat to the Galápagos' native animals and plants. Non-native species compete with native ones for habitat, and some prey on natives unadapted to predation. Non-native species have been introduced since the islands were first visited by humans, and the islands' growing human population and increasing movement of goods and people to the islands are introducing new non-native species at a high rate. Protected areas 97% of the islands' land area is in Galápagos National Park, which was created in 1959. Human settlements are limited to the remaining 3% of the islands, located on the four permanently inhabited islands. Access to the uninhabited islands is strictly controlled, and visitor numbers and itineraries are limited and planned by authorities. Approximately 170,000 people visit the islands each year. In 1986 the Galápagos Marine Reserve was created, with an area of 70,000 km2. In 1998 the marine reserve was enlarged to 133,000 km2. References Ecoregions of Ecuador Deserts and xeric shrublands Neotropical ecoregions Endemic Bird Areas