Story perspectives

Conservationists Fight to Save Endangered Puffleg Hummingbird

1/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Yanacocha Reserve in Ecuador's Andes is a crucial habitat for the critically endangered Black-breasted puffleg hummingbird, with 150–200 individuals.
The Jocotoco Foundation established the reserve 25 years ago to protect the puffleg and a diverse high-altitude ecosystem.
Conservationist Paola Villalba notes high-altitude forests face threats from agriculture and grazing.
Shirley Farinango of the Birds and Conservation Foundation urges restoration to support puffleg survival at 3,000–3,500 meters.

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Story summary

The Yanacocha Reserve in Ecuador's Andes is a crucial habitat for the critically endangered Black-breasted puffleg hummingbird, with 150–200 individuals.
The Jocotoco Foundation established the reserve 25 years ago to protect the puffleg and a diverse high-altitude ecosystem.
Conservationist Paola Villalba notes high-altitude forests face threats from agriculture and grazing.
Shirley Farinango of the Birds and Conservation Foundation urges restoration to support puffleg survival at 3,000–3,500 meters.