Almost 25 years ago, Dr. Robert Ridgely, together with a scientific team, heard a call that he didn't recognize. What he heard is now known as the Jocotoco Antpitta (Grallaria ridgelyi). This discovery would end up being one of the biggest ornithological discoveries of the 20th century. Quickly after the discovery the team realized this bird had a small range and could easily go extinct without proper protection, leading to the first land purchase and creation of Fundación Jocotoco.

This discovery ignited a conservation movement. What started with protecting a bird has lead to protecting over 60k acres throughout Ecuador. Out of the 60k acres, 8995 acres make up the Tapichalaca reserve which connects two national parks. To date the reserve has recorded 351 species of birds, at least 55 plant species are endemic to the slopes of Cerro Tapichalaca, and it is the second most important place for the conservation of orchids in Ecuador, only second to the much larger neighboring Podocarpus National Park. Some experts believe it holds some of the highest floral diversity in the world. 

The success of Tapichalaca didn’t go unnoticed. The town of Palanda just south of the reserve came to Fundación Jocotoco and asked if it was possible to join forces. Palanda knew the importance of the area and wanted to create a buffer zone that would help protect the national parks and secure the town’s watershed. This was a testament to all the hard work that has been done over the last twenty years.

In order to strengthen the corridor between the two national parks, Jocotoco is looking to purchase another 1,100 acres. Help us achieve this goal by donating today. Your donation will be matched 1:1. Help us keep the momentum going, donate today.