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In
Ecuador the place for birding is the Galapagos
Islands. Here, 600 miles from the continent of South
America, birds have evolved in complete isolation. The number of
endemic (native) species of birds and animals is high considering
the relatively small size of the islands, and some islands hold
different species than others. This is where Charles Darwin formulated
his theory of evolution by studying 13 species of finches. Flamingos,
penguins and pelicans are among the aboriginal birds. It is truly
a place like no other.
On the mainland, Maquipucuna Reserve
in northwest Ecuador is also a birdwatcher's paradise. There are
more than 325 species of birds, including the Golden-headed Quetzal,
Crimson-rumped Toucanets, Broad-billed Marmot and an active "Cock
of the Rock" lek.
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