I fell in love with Ecuador, especially the Tandayapa Valley, where there is a movement by conservationists to purchase precious primary Cloud Forest in order to protect it from logging and grazing practices. I found several parcels of land for sale that would form 2 units of a 1000-acre reserve. This reserve abuts other private forest reserves measuring about 10,000-acres. The land price is a great value, and I am working to raise the funds (using a unique financing concept of selling shares to Reserve members who would receive member benefits far more valuable than their share cost). If you are interested in helping create the Reserva Ecologica del Quetzal by purchasing shares or otherwise, or if you would like more information, please email me at quetzal65@comcast.net.

Shown below, the Crested Quetzal is one of the most sought birds in Ecuador by hordes of visiting birders, and can be seen here in the Tandayapa Valley along with 300 other species of birds, many of which are exquisite (including 35 species of hummingbirds and 40 species of tanagers) or exotic (Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, Plate-billed Mountain Toucan) or ordinarily impossible to find (Powerful Woodpecker, Tanager Finch and various Antpittas). These birds and other wildlife (e.g. Spectacled Bear) will attract nature lovers to the Reserve. The Reserve sets itself apart from other nearby ecotourism attractions by featuring Visitor Centers, focusing on Quetzals (2 species occur there), having access to both low and high elevations within the Cloud Forest ecosystem, and providing fully equipped, comfortable cabins. Its location close to a main highway to/from Quito make it an ideal location to base a 1-2 week birding expedition.