Bird watching, a development alternative for local communities in Ecuador.

Bird watching or also known as ornithological tourism consists of the search, observation, and identification of birds, as well as enjoying the nature found in their habitat. Fans of this activity travel from one place to another to study as many birds as possible. This type of tourism is not invasive or aggressive, which is why it is known as one of the most sustainable forms of ecotourism. 

Since the post-pandemic tourist reactivation, this activity has become a new tourist trend by offering the opportunity to enjoy and contemplate in open spaces surrounded by nature where endemic species predominate. Bird tourism has taken a role of great importance in Ecuador due to its biodiversity, which leads it to occupy the fourth place in the world with 1680 species of birds that represent 17% of the world total according to the Ecuadorian Committee of Ornithological Records (CERO). Additionally, Ecuador is ranked thirteenth among the countries with the highest endemism with a total number of 35 species, 6 of them in continental Ecuador and 29 in the Galapagos archipelago according to the Fieldbook of the Birds of Ecuador Guide, from Lelis Navarrete. In addition, the country has 133 species of hummingbirds, more than 120 tanagers and 300 regional endemic species. In fact, it is home to a great biodiversity of hummingbirds, which is why it has been classified as the "Country of Hummingbirds". A clear example is Oreotrochilus Chimborazo, that belong to the Trochilidae family. 

30 years ago, this activity has been carried out within the country allowing its practice in the four regions of the Coast, Sierra, Oriente and Galapagos. One of the chosen destinations is the city of Guayaquil, which has more than 80 species of birds and areas within the urban perimeter for their study and identification. In 2014, several specialists worked on the creation of the first Urban Birdwatching Route on the Malecón del Salado. 

Other places where you can do bird watching is Mindo, located in the northwest of the province of Pichincha, which is classified as a site of global importance for bird watching, registering 465 species. On the other hand, we have the Yasuní National Park, located in the provinces of Orellana, Pastaza, and Napo. This site has approximately 600 species of birds, among which is the Harpy Eagle. Another international site for bird watching is the Galapagos Islands, which have 45 endemic species. 

Currently, the participation of women in tourism activities in Ecuador has increased significantly. From its incorporation in the presentation of services to its involvement in ornithological experiences within the country. 

Due to the above, it is important to promote awareness campaigns so that tourists, citizens and the public can learn about this type of tourism and the existing biodiversity in our country. 

Writing and Translation: Abigail Aristega 

Edition: Doménica Barahona Canales