Mainland Ecuador's spectacular wildlife makes it a magnet for nature tourists, but until now there hasn't been a go-to, all-in-one guide geared to the general reader. With this handy and accessible guide, visitors now have everything they need to identify and enjoy the majority of birds and animals they are likely to see. Written and illustrated by two of Ecuador's most experienced nature guides and photographers, Wildlife of Ecuador covers more than 350 birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. It features over 400 stunning colour photographs and includes a range map for each species, as well as a brief account of the country's natural history and biogeography. With its extensive coverage, attractive and easy-to-use layout, beautiful photographs, and nontechnical text, this is an essential guide for anyone who wants to explore the natural wonders of Ecuador.
Preface 7
Acknowledgments 9
Plan of the Book 10
Biogeography of Ecuador 12
Diversity and Its Causes 12
The Andes 13
The Equator 14
Marine Currents 15
Habitats and Bioregions 17
Species Accounts
Amphibians 19
Reptiles 42
Birds 72
Mammals 218
Bibliography and References 270
Appendix: Map of Main Roads and National Protected Areas of Ecuador 272
List of Photographers 274
Index of Common Names 275
Index of Scientific Names 281
Andrés Vásquez Noboa works as a guide for Tandayapa Bird Lodge and Tropical Birding Tours in his native Ecuador, as well as in Peru, Brazil, and Argentina. An active promoter of birding and conservation, he has cowritten six previous books on the wildlife of mainland Ecuador and Galápagos.
Pablo Cervantes Daza works as a nature and photography guide for Tropical Birding Tours and for Capturing Nature Tours, leading tours and workshops in his native Ecuador, as well as in Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, South Africa, and Madagascar.