Meet Chicho, our passionate birdwatching guide in Mindo!
With over six years of experience and a love for the cloud forest, Chicho has identified over 400 bird species, including the stunning Cock-of-the-Rock and Highland Toucan. Join Chicho for an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature!
Get to know Chicho:
What inspired you to become a birdwatching guide?
I’m deeply inspired by the opportunity to observe so many wonders and colors in Mindo every day.
How long have you been guiding birdwatching tours in Mindo?
I’ve been guiding for about six years, but I keep discovering new things that motivate me to continue learning.
What do you enjoy most about birdwatching in the cloud forest?
What I enjoy most is starting each morning with the diversity of bird songs and colors, which bring a sense of peace within nature.
Do you have any childhood memories related to nature or birds that left a mark on you?
As a child, my first experience was observing a Cock-of-the-Rock, an emblematic bird with very striking colors. I remember seeing it through binoculars, which allowed me to appreciate it even more closely. Its songs, size, and colors left a lasting impression on me.
What is your favorite bird species to observe in Mindo, and why?
I have two favorites: the Cock-of-the-Rock and the Highland Toucan. Their songs and colors stand out in the forest, and having the privilege of finding them in Mindo is a blessing.
How many bird species have you identified in the area?
In my experience as a guide, I’ve been fortunate to find around 400 species, including birds and hummingbirds.
What is the most exciting or rare bird you’ve seen on a tour?
My best experience was guiding an American couple who were bird enthusiasts. In just two and a half days, we saw 284 species. They were so excited that they called me every night from Ecuador to say they couldn’t believe they had seen so much variety.
Can you share a memorable experience with a group of birdwatchers?
The experience with the American couple was very special. Their best memory and experience was visiting Mindo and meeting me as their guide.
What can visitors expect on a birdwatching tour with you?
People who join me will always find someone friendly, who makes them feel confident about spotting colorful bird varieties. In Mindo, we’re privileged to have so many species, and visitors always leave with beautiful memories.
What makes Mindo such a special place for birdwatching?
Mindo is special because, in a small area, we can observe a great variety of flora and fauna. In just one square meter, you can see up to six different bird species. That’s why Mindo is called the “Bird Capital.”
How do you help beginners or first-time birdwatchers enjoy the experience?
It’s always good to help and motivate people who are just starting out. Sharing respect for nature is the best thing one can do, as it offers us so much beauty.
What is the best time of year to visit Mindo for birdwatching?
The best times are from late January, when more birds gather. It’s the season when they come out with their chicks, and you can find them in greater numbers. It’s also easier to see them flying everywhere.
Do you have a favorite bird call or sound that you like to imitate?
My favorite call is that of the Highland Toucan. It’s a loud call that, when you hear it, seems to say, “Watch out, I’m here.” It has a lot of personality, and hearing it always makes me happy because it’s not very common.
What’s a fun fact about birds that surprises most people?
A fun fact that always surprises tourists is that in Mindo, we can always find wonders. There’s no tourist who doesn’t discover something interesting.
If you could be a bird, which one would you choose and why?
If I were a bird, I’d be a Highland Toucan. Its call and colors are special. It’s a calm toucan, but when it sings, it commands a lot of personality. I’ve been lucky enough to see up to 17 Highland Toucans in a single tree.
Why is bird conservation important to you?
It’s important because birds are part of the natural wealth we have. Going out to observe them is like finding the “green gold” of nature.
How do your tours help protect Mindo’s biodiversity?
My tours help convey respect for nature and showcase the beauty that surrounds us. This motivates people to value and protect biodiversity.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start birdwatching?
My advice is to do it with passion. There’s nothing better than going out to discover so much beauty in nature. Be prepared to see how special birds, mountains, and rivers are.