Q & A
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
What are two of the most beautiful animals you have seen? Which animals have you found to be the most interesting? From the UNC Hospital School in Orange County
There is so much beauty here in Ecuador that it is hard to narrow it down to two animals. Many of us have fallen in love with the tiny Buff-tailed Coronet Hummingbirds because of their funny landing behavior and bright colors. Some of us would say that the Turquoise Jay is their favorite while others would list the Alpaca, Plate-Billed Toucan or the Burrowing Owl. There are hundreds of gorgeous moths and butterflies here as well. While we were at the Marianita farm today we saw a beautiful Blue Morpho butterfly soaring through the coffee bushes. Everywhere you look there are colors!.....and dogs! From the large city of Quito, to the more rural villages scattering the mountains and coastal areas, dogs roam the streets and hang out on neighbor’s porches. Practically every hotel where we stayed had these faithful companions to entertain and protect.
Where can the Blue Footed Booby be found? A teacher at Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools in Orange County
The Blue Footed Booby has a wide range and can be found in all costal areas around South America north to Baja California. During our day-trip to the Isla de la Plata on June 25, we were extremely excited to see the Blue Footed Booby’s mating behavior and dancing display that can go on for days prior to nesting.
What types of plants were in the medicinal plant garden you visited and how are they used? A teacher at UNC Hospital School in Orange County
There are many different plants found in Ecuador that can be used to treat various illnesses. During our visit to the medicinal plant garden, we saw many plants that can be used to treat common sicknesses: violets for cough, mint for stomach distress, Moyuyo berries, aka “glueberries,” used for glue and hair gel, torondil for stomach distress and sedating, and rose petals for baths and skin conditioning.
What crafts do they make in Montecristi other than Panama hats? A 6th grade student from UNC Hospital School in Orange County
Montecristi is known as the home of the Panama hat, but they also have a wide variety of other artisans which display their wares in local market places. There are examples of intricate weaving patterns which are showcased in clothing, hammocks, handbags and shawls. Tagua nut carvings and pottery were also in evidence along with jewelry made of various different natural materials, including semiprecious stones, berries and wood. The people of Ecuador are very creative and seem to be able to make the most beautiful, useful items out of the most amazing natural materials.
What kind of fish do they use for breeding? A 4th grade student from UNC Hospital School in Orange County
At the farm of Elsa and Pablo, “Naranjita” near Jipijapa, we saw a project that uses the Talapia fish as a source of income and sustenance for the community. These fish, although non-indigenous to Ecuador, are easily transported to these isolated areas and can be grown and harvested by the people. These tasty fish can be found in restaurants around North Carolina as well as in other locations around the US.
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