Conserve the Cloud Forest
with Fundación Paz de las Aves
Preserving Our Future
Founded in 2023, Fundación Paz de las Aves protects and conserves the cloud forest habitat of over 554 bird species in northwestern Ecuador. Our mission centers on creating effective habitat management and restoration programs that preserve primary and secondary forests in the greater Mindo region. We hope to build on the Paz legacy and encourage other farmers in Mindo and beyond to protect their native forests.
Protecting Ecuador’s Ancient Forests
Our mission begins with preserving Ecuador’s primary and secondary forests—vital habitats that sustain biodiversity and act as carbon sinks, benefiting the planet. Without these forests, our antpittas cannot survive.
Reforesting and Reclaiming Pasturelands
Through reforestation and targeted restoration on former cattle pastures, we aim to restore critical habitats, improve biodiversity, and expand the range of forest for all endangered species, not only our precious antpittas.
Engaging Communities in Conservation
We collaborate with farmers, neighbors, communities, and birdwatchers to foster a shared commitment to sustainable land use and wildlife protection. Our success depends on your involvement.
A Foundation for the Future
The idea of forming a foundation to protect antpitta habitat was born during the 2022 GoFundMe campaign in which over 1300 clients and friends of Refugio Paz de las Aves donated to help save the family’s property. While no donor asked the family to form a foundation in order to receive a donation, many suggested that it might be a solution to long term conservation of the property.
After a lot of hard work and many days waiting on government agencies, Fundación Paz de las Aves was officially recognized by Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition on September 25, 2023.
An All Volunteer Organization
As a fully volunteer-driven foundation, our members are dedicated to advancing the Paz legacy through partnerships in reforestation and collaboration with conservation-minded donors who share our vision of acquiring and preserving additional land. This support not only strengthens our efforts to protect Ecuador’s cloud forests but also enables the Paz family to focus on growing their ecotourism business while we take on the vital work of conservation.
Join Our Cause
Today, we invite you to join this labor of love. By getting involved, you help us continue to protect these habitats, expand our conservation efforts, and inspire future generations. Whether through a donation, volunteer work, or simply sharing our mission, your support directly impacts Ecuador’s cloud forests and the remarkable wildlife within.
Donate
To donate, use the buttons on our website or visit our fundraising platform on GiveButter, hosted by our partner in the United States, the newly founded Antpitta Habitat Alliance. Any donation is impactful, but recurring donations allow us to plan ahead.
Volunteer
Fundación Paz de las Aves has a small but passionate team. We’re looking for additional volunteers who want to support our mission, either in Ecuador or remotely. From social media and fundraising to performing research and reaching out to potential partners, your help can make a real impact on conserving Ecuador’s cloud forests. Join us to be part of a growing legacy in conservation!
Testimonials for the Conservation Work of Paz de las Aves
If you would like to add your name to this list of people praising the work at Paz de las Aves, reach out!
Rebecca Brunner, Donor
As a conservation biologist, I can’t tell you how impactful this project will be (and already has been!) for protecting biodiversity. The dedication and passion of Angel and Rodrigo is palpable when you meet them, and that is perhaps the most important element of this project: the power of Ecuadorians to protect their own land for future generations of people and of wildlife. Thank you for all your truly inspiring work!
Nightcliff Lions Club, Donor
Nightcliff Lions supports grassroots conservation. Two of its members visited this property and were impressed by the conservation work of Angel and his family. Keep up the good work.
Shereen Chang, Donor
We visited the Paz Bird Refuge in 2015 and had a wonderful time, seeing antpittas, hummingbirds, cock-of-the-rock and many other birds. The relationship Angel has built with these shy birds is remarkable and unique. It’s important that this habitat and bird sanctuary be conserved.
