Rainforest Canopies and Wildlife in Ecuador

ITINERARY

Research Summary

Santa Lucia Reserve, Northwest Ecuador — The Ecuadorian Andes is one of the world's most exceptional biodiversity hotspots. Unfortunately, populations of many species has been dramatically reduced due to habitat loss and hunting. 

Dr. Mika Peck and colleagues monitor populations of large mammals and tropical birds in the reserve. These animals act as “umbrella species” whose protection will also support countless other animals and plants. The data collected here will help show whether existing reserves and corridors are sufficient to protect the wealth of wildlife in Ecuador's forests in the face of climate change.

The Reserve is home to tremendous biodiversity, including more than 390 species of birds, thousands of plant species, and an estimated 45 mammal species. In this stunning cloud forest, you'll hike the mountainous terrain with a different assignment each day.

You’ll help survey key bird and large mammal species (the latter primarily through camera trapping) to determine abundance and distribution. This data will provide reserve managers with information to create conservation plans in the hope of connecting with and extending the habitat corridor which stretches from Ecuador into Colombia.

You’ll help to set up camera traps, conduct daily bird surveys, and explore the unique invertebrate and amphibian communities that make their home in the bromeliads. You will also help identify and photograph tracks and measure and count trees and identify species of orchids and other plants.

In your free time, you can enjoy games of soccer or volleyball, take part in fiestas and dances in nearby towns, or hike to gorgeous waterfalls.

About the Research Area

The Santa Lucia Reserve, protected forest in 1988, covers an area of 713 hectares of cloudforest and ranges from an altitude of 4,600 to 8,500 ft. The base station at 6,200 ft has a pleasant daily temperature of 75-85 degree Fahrenheit, although afternoons and evenings can be chilly. Mammal species include four cat species (jaguarundi, ocelot, Andean cat, and puma), coatimundis, and spectacled bear.

Among the tropical birds that make their home here are hummingbirds, tanagers, Red-billed parrots, Toucan barbets, and many more. Native plants include an huge variety of orchids, bromeliads, and other epiphytes.

Accommodations

Volunteers stay at the Santa Lucia Lodge, which offers shared rooms, both conventional and compost toilets, and hot showers with spectacular forest views. In the evenings, the lodge is lit by generator.

Cuisine

Lodge staff prepare traditional Ecuadorian and international meals, using organic produce from the garden. Volunteers are welcome to lend a hand in the garden and kitchen.