From the mist-shrouded cloud forests of the western Andes to the windswept páramo and snow-capped volcanoes of the high mountains, Ecuador reveals an extraordinary diversity of landscapes and life. Descending the eastern slopes, lush montane forests gradually give way to the vast tropical rainforests of the Amazon Basin, each region supporting its own remarkable communities of birds, plants, and other wildlife. This archive brings together my stories, field observations, and photographic encounters from across Ecuador, celebrating not only its astonishing biodiversity but also the memorable experiences, unexpected discoveries, and people encountered along the way. Together, these journeys offer a glimpse into one of the most biologically rich and geographically fascinating countries on Earth.
Stories from all Regions of Ecuador
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EB21 – The Amazon Ignites: A Scarlet Macaw Spectacle at the Clay Licks
Brilliant Scarlet Macaws descend upon a Yasuní clay lick, transforming an extraordinary display of color into a deeper appreciation of the Amazon’s ecological rhythms.
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EB20 – Yasuni’s Colorful Chaos at the Parrot Licks
Two remarkable Yasuní clay licks attract colorful parrots, parakeets, and Scarlet Macaws, while the surrounding rainforest reveals butterflies, unusual reptiles, and fascinating plants.
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EB19 – Day Three Opens with a Riverbound Trip to El Retiro
A dawn journey from Sani Lodge to the riverside community of El Retiro reveals colorful macaws, Orange-winged Amazons, and remarkable Amazonian birdlife.
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EB18 – First Encounters in the Amazon: A Bird‑Filled Afternoon
Colorful tanagers, a brilliant Violaceous Jay, and golden reflections on the lagoon bring a memorable first afternoon at Sani Lodge to a magical close.
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EB17 – Feathers from the Past: The Remarkable Hoatzin of Ecuador
With its prehistoric appearance, unusual digestive system, and awkward flight, the remarkable Hoatzin offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolutionary mysteries of Amazonian birds.
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EB16 – The Mama Lucy and Canoe Transit to Sani Birding Lodge
A journey along the Napo River brings rare Pied Plovers, a dramatic tropical downpour, and the unforgettable excitement of finally arriving at Sani Lodge.
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EB15 – Puembo Garden Surprises Before Taking Off for Coca
A final morning of birding at Puembo Garden gives way to an exciting flight over the Andes and a river journey into the Amazon.
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EB14 – The Official Launch of the Eagle-eye Tour
As evening settled over Ecuador, our Eagle-eye photography group gathered around Mercedes’ dinner table for introductions, shared stories, and a delicious home-cooked meal. With new friendships forming and rain falling softly outside, our eleven-day birding adventure was officially underway.
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EB13 – When Color Takes Center Stage: Male and Female Red-headed Barbets Steal the Show
An afternoon in Ecuador’s western Andean cloud forest brought a memorable encounter with a pair of Red-headed Barbets. The male’s brilliant crimson plumage contrasted beautifully with the female’s subtler colors, offering a fascinating glimpse of sexual dimorphism and an unforgettable…
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EB12 – More Feathered Encounters at Mirador Guaycapi
An extraordinary afternoon at Mirador y Restaurante Guaycapi brought a dazzling parade of Ecuador’s tropical birds. From colorful tanagers and shimmering hummingbirds to a striking White-whiskered Hermit, each new arrival offered another photographic opportunity. The spectacular Blue-necked Tanager was a…
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EB11 – Feathers, Food, and Forest Views at Mirador Guaycapi
The open-air terrace at Mirador y Restaurante Guaycapi offered a spectacular introduction to Ecuador’s western Andean birdlife. Brilliantly colored euphonias and tanagers crowded the fruit feeders, while shimmering hummingbirds, including the Fawn-breasted Brilliant, Andean Emerald, and Purple-throated Woodstar, provided an…
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EB10 – Down the Alambi Valley for Lunch at the Mirador y Restaurante Guaycapi
Descending from the high páramo of Zuro Loma into Ecuador’s lush Chocó cloud forest, we followed the winding Alambi River through a dramatic change in elevation and habitat. A memorable encounter with a White-capped Dipper highlighted our journey before we…