Wings of Hope: Pioneering the Future for the Blue-throated Hillstar

In the high alpine meadows of the Andean páramo, the Blue-throated Hillstar (Oreotrochilus cyanolaemus) was first discovered in 2017. It was new to science.

This hummingbird, distinctive for the intense, iridescent blue plumage of its throat, only inhabits this small area located in the Andean region of southern Ecuador at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, approximately 10,000 feet. Its total population was estimated to be tiny, 80 to 100 individuals, and it was listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

We acted quickly and created the Cerro de Arcos Reserve in 2020 to protect this beautiful hummingbird teetering on the brink of extinction.

Significant steps in the conservation of the Blue-throated Hillstar

Cerro de Arcos has grown steadily and now covers over 1,500 acres (607 hectares). Its growth is essential to protect the Blue-throated Hillstar from loss of habitat from threats such as slash-and-burn farming, overgrazing, and pine plantations, in addition to other factors such as mining, which affect approximately 25% of its habitat.

From Science to Action

Collaborating with scientists from the Universidad del Azuay , we conducted joint research to gather crucial data on the Blue-throated Hillstar. This research has allowed us to determine where it lives, how it breeds, and what it feeds on. We have implemented more effective, science-based methods and actions to ensure its survival.

Between February and June 2023, we carried out eight expeditions. We found that females of this species nest in small caves over five meters (16 feet) high within the arches of the characteristic rock formations in the area, showing a unique ability to reuse old nests. During the expedition, we found seven nest sites. From these, only four nests were successful, resulting in eight fledglings.

We are working with the Universidad del Azuay and the Universidad San Francisco de Quito to develop a conservation action plan for these threatened birds.

Regenerating the habitat of the Blue-throated Hillstar

The ecosystem of the Cerro de Arcos Reserve is characterized by extensive grasslands and the presence of native plants such as Puya hamata (Bromeliaceae), a visually striking bromeliad with the ability to withstand fire, and Chuquiragua (Chuquiragua jussieui), known as the "flower of the Andes'' for its intense orange color. Nectar from the flowers of these plants is the main food source for the Blue-throated Hillstar.

As part of our reforestation program in Cerro de Arcos, we have planted more than 4,000 Chuquiraguas within the reserve and near the Guambusari community, which actively supports the conservation of the alpine meadow habitat of the Blue-throated Hillstar called paramo.

We also conducted a native plant survey to guide our reforestation efforts, ensuring a mix of species that will provide year-round food for the hummingbirds.

The dedicated work of the Jocotoco team, coupled with the support of allies and the critical contribution of donors such as the American Bird Conservancy , Rainforest Trust , and the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund , is essential to preventing the extinction of the Blue-throated Hillstar.

Every nest we protect, every acre we add to the reserve, and every piece of data we collect in the field proves that when an enduring commitment to nature moves us, life persists in the face of challenges.

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