Dr. Jordan Davis-Powell, the associate veterinarian at the Los Angeles Zoo, traveled to Ecuador’s Llanganates National Park in October 2022 with colleagues from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Smithsonian Zoo to study mountain tapirs. The animal is the largest native land mammal in South America and is critically endangered. The team’s goal was to focus on conservation planning objectives such as studying how tapirs use their native environment, what health challenges tapirs experience in human care, and the relationship between local citizens and the animals. Dr. Davis-Powell bonded with the local community and worked on building relationships that would help spread awareness and excitement about the mountain tapir. She fine-tuned her fieldwork skills collecting data on wild tapirs and comparing them with those of the tapirs under her care at the Los Angeles Zoo.
Field Notes: Ecuador with Dr. Jordan Davis-Powell
Ecuador is a beautiful country located in South America that has a rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. Recently, Dr. Jordan Davis-Powell had the opportunity to explore Ecuador and take note of its unique features. Dr. Davis-Powell is a professor of anthropology at a Top 100 university and specializes in cultural anthropology. In this field note, we will dive into Dr. Davis-Powell’s experience in Ecuador and what she uncovered about this charming country.
Heading 1: Arrival in Quito
Dr. Davis-Powell landed in Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, and was greeted with magnificent views of the Andes Mountains. As soon as she stepped out of the airport, she noticed the breathtaking architecture of the city’s historic center. Quito is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the world, and a stroll through the historic center is like walking through history. Dr. Davis-Powell was amazed by the fusion of Spanish colonial and indigenous style in the architecture.
Heading 2: Indigenous Markets
One of the highlights of Dr. Davis-Powell’s trip was exploring the bustling indigenous markets in Otavalo. The markets are a cultural experience where visitors can find handmade crafts, textiles, and locally grown produce. Dr. Davis-Powell was impressed by the variety of goods sold, and the sellers’ friendly nature that adds to the market’s charm.
Heading 3: Hiking the Quilotoa Loop
Dr. Davis-Powell’s adventure side kicked in when she decided to take on the Quilotoa Loop hike. The Quilotoa Loop is a popular trek for hikers and adventure seekers who want to experience the stunning landscape of the Andes Mountains. The hike takes visitors through small villages, over mountain passes, and ends at the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake. Dr. Davis-Powell enjoyed the hike, which allowed her to connect with the natural beauty of Ecuador.
Heading 4: Discovering Cuenca
Dr. Davis-Powell spent some time in Cuenca, a charming colonial city in southern Ecuador. The city is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a unique blend of European and indigenous culture. Dr. Davis-Powell was fascinated by the city’s cobblestone streets, vibrant architecture, and the friendliness of the locals. She found the locals’ pride in their cultural heritage inspiring and enjoyed learning about their daily lives.
Heading 5: The Amazon Rainforest
Dr. Davis-Powell’s trip to Ecuador wasn’t complete without a visit to the Amazon rainforest. The Amazon is the largest tropical rainforest in the world and home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. Dr. Davis-Powell went on a guided tour and was struck by the vastness of the rainforest. She learned about the indigenous tribes that call the Amazon their home and the importance of preserving the ecosystem.
In conclusion, Dr. Jordan Davis-Powell had an eye-opening experience in Ecuador that allowed her to connect with different cultures and natural wonders. She recommends anyone looking for a unique and enriching travel experience to visit Ecuador. The country boasts a mix of historical, cultural, and natural encounters that cater to a wide range of travelers.
