The highest rates of endemic species are found in the eastern and southern islands. This is due to the fact that they are the first islands on the path of the prevailing winds and currents which flow from the southeast. This means that creatures have been established here for longer, giving them time to evolve into new forms. Amongst the endemic species unique to Española we can find the mockingbirds, lava lizards and the Española ground finch. The island is also home to the only tropical albatross in the world: the waved albatross. The white coralline beaches and bays of the island make the perfect habitat for one of the most charismatic species of the islands, the Galapagos sea lion.