Baltra Island, also known as South Seymour, is home to one of two airports connecting the Galapagos with mainland Ecuador. During World War II, the United States occupied this area and, because of its flat topography, found it a perfect spot to build an air force base. Saltbush, prickly pear cactuses, and palo santo trees dominate the arid landscape. Though Galapagos land animals are sparse, the grasslands of Baltra do provide a habitat for several species of birds, like small ground finches, noddy terns, and large brown pelicans.