Just when we thought we had seen all the beautiful birds imaginable we went to Mindo Cloud Forest. Situated 3 hours north west of Quito at 7,200 feet elevation we entered a mystical magical cloud forest full of all the birds that you only see in postcards. We had to pinch ourselves to be sure everything was real with all these postcard birds flying around us. Actually, they were not all that easy to spot with the density of the forest and the mists wafting in and out, but we managed (especially when they were at feeders!).
Brilliant hummingbirds of all sizes and adornments were everywhere, like this one with the fluffy snow shoes and tailored tail feather. Ever wonder how a toucan eats with that huge bill? So did we, but they are amazingly facile as they pick a berry and throw it back into their throats.
Yep, that thing Janet is holding is actually a huge earthworm, it really didn't like being picked up and photographed but we couldn't resist, we knew no one would ever believe we actually saw an earthworm this big!
While we were in Mindo enjoying the birds we also got the opportunity to get an inside view of an actual butterfly farm. Yes, another one of Claudia's wonderful cousins' has a butterfly farm there. We got a behind the scenes tour of how butterfly's are raised and the chrysalis are harvested to ship all over the world for zoos, shows and exhibits.
Nectar of the gods, you can see that they are what they drink!
It takes an entire huge nursery to support this delicate operation with individual netted condos for each type of butterfly larvae. Then the chrysalis is carefully harvested to be shipped to the lucky recipient of these beautiful delicate creatures.
I'm glad Patti is doing well
ReplyDeleteWhat a magical adventure you have both embarked upon. Good news that Patti is back in action! I so miss my Seastars lots.
ReplyDeleteEspectacular! Gracias! Jorge de Calle Kaupakalua
ReplyDeleteEspectacular amigas! Jorge de calle Kaupakalua
ReplyDeleteWell, that's good news now. Patti, were are so glad to read that you are better now!!!! And the Mindo experince must have been a very special experince. My God, I've never seen a big worm like that in my life!!!
ReplyDeleteWe miss you!!! Love, Peter + Christine
Wow, Pattie and Janet!!! As a birder, I envy you soooo much. So glad Patti is back up and running. What kind of bird eats that worm?
ReplyDeleteBest--Carolyn and Betsy
Girls! Your pictures are absolutely fantastic! We loved the one with Janet and the colossal earthworm.
ReplyDeleteWe are relieved that Patty is fully recovered. Ale & Laura
Am Happy that you're up and feeling better. I had the shingles shot several years ago...here's hoping it works! What fabulous photos, ladies! Would love to be there experiencing it with you. You'll have to do a Mac book when you get back. We love all of your adventures...Keep traveling ! Robert & Lyman
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