24 different Andean bears and the ultimate sighting of a Mountain Tapir
Last January I guided a nature trip in Ecuador focused on the Spectacled bear. A few years ago, my survey recorded eight different Andean bears; this time we saw three times as many: twenty-four. Many other mammals also showed themselves at their best. In between sightings, everything was beautifully complemented by the birdlife of the subtropical rainforest and cloud forest, as well as the páramo habitat where we spent part of our time.
Despite the bad weather and the fact that I didn’t have a tripod with me, I still managed to turn the shaky footage I took into something recognizable, documenting an incredible sighting of a Mountain Tapir during the same trip. This animal is truly difficult to find due to several factors that often combine: the species’ low numbers, the animals’ mobility, the impenetrable habitat, and the challenging weather conditions.
The way we eventually obtained such a beautiful view of the species is something I will never forget. The tapir video footage and an atmospheric account of the sighting—along with the spectacular encounters with Spectacled bears and other wildlife we came across—has now been added as the latest news item on my personal website. Enjoy!
Cheers, Jan Kelchtermans – www.europesbig5.com
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blackwatch.
Wow the pictures of the tapir and the spectacled bear look so amazing.