Which bird species do you think is the biggest attraction to visitors of your lodge (please only name one species)?
The Inca Jay (Cyanocorax yncas) is the main attraction, commonly seen from the lodge cabins within the dry forest habitat.
What is the name of your lodge, and since when has your lodge been operating?
The lodge is called Urraca Lodge, located within the Jorupe Reserve in dry forest at 500 meters above sea level, near Macará. The lodge’s infrastructure is designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and was created in 2009.
How best to travel to your lodge?
From Macará, take the road heading east from the northern part of the city, toward Sozoranga. The reserve is located 10 km along the main paved road. The entrance to the lodge is on the left (there is a large metal sign). Once you enter the reserve, continue for two more kilometers along the road until you reach Urraca Lodge. If the gate is closed, one of our park rangers will be able to assist you.
What kind of services – except for accommodation and food – does your lodge offer to visiting birders?
Urraca Lodge provides well-maintained dry forest trails that allow guests to explore diverse habitats rich in birdlife. Birders can enjoy direct observations from the comfort of their rooms thanks to the lodge’s strategic location within the forest. Additionally, experienced local guides are available to lead personalized birding tours, helping visitors spot elusive and endemic species while sharing valuable insights about the ecosystem and conservation efforts.
What makes your lodge special?
Urraca Lodge is uniquely situated in the Tumbes dry forest, a threatened ecosystem with high levels of endemism. The lodge’s bright and spacious cabins are surrounded by giant ceibo trees, offering guests an immersive experience in this rare and beautiful habitat. This combination of unique environment and comfortable accommodations makes Urraca Lodge a standout destination for birders and nature lovers.
What are the 10 – 20 most interesting birds that your lodge offers good chances to see?
Birders at Urraca Lodge have excellent chances to see the Inca Jay (Urraca Andina) along with several Tumbesian endemics such as the Blackish-headed Spinetail, Henna-hooded Foliage-gleaner, White-headed Brush-Finch, Tumbes Hummingbird, and Baird’s Flycatcher, Slaty Becard, Loja Tyranulet, Watkins Antpitta, and Western Peruvian Screech Owl, and other unique tropical species characteristic of this rich and threatened region.
White-tailed Jay (Andres Vasquez)
What is the best time to visit your lodge, and why?
The best time to visit Urraca Lodge is during spring and summer, when the dry season conditions make birdwatching easier, despite occasional rains.
Is your lodge involved in conservation efforts? If yes, please describe them.
Urraca Lodge plays an important role in the protection of the threatened Tumbes dry forest, a unique and highly endangered ecosystem. The lodge supports environmental education programs aimed at raising awareness among local communities and visitors about the importance of conserving this habitat. Additionally, it actively promotes reforestation and habitat restoration projects to help regenerate native flora and improve conditions for the diverse wildlife that depend on this fragile ecosystem. These combined efforts contribute significantly to long-term conservation goals in the region.
What other suggestions can you give to birders interested in visiting your lodge?
We recommend bringing lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera, especially to capture sightings of colorful tanagers and endemic species unique to the region.
Henna-hooded Foliage-gleaner
Do you have activities for non-birders? If so, please describe.
Yes, non-birders can enjoy guided interpretive hikes that showcase the region’s unique flora and arid landscapes, offering a deeper appreciation of the ecosystem beyond birdwatching.
If any reader of 10,000 Birds is interested in staying at your lodge, how can they best contact you?
For reservations or more information, please contact us at:
Email: info@jocotoursecuador.com
Phone: +593 99 244 0038
Website: https://jocotoursecuador.com
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