Photos: Orchids and birds of Mindo, Ecuador
The hills and forest of Ecuador feature some of the most diverse species of orchids on the planet, including the Elleanthus orchid. (Chris Kraul / For The Times)
The Pleurothallis is a stunning orchid. (Chris Kraul / For The Times)
The Tillandsia cyanea, a bromeliad, is a dewy delight. (Chris Kraul / For The Times)
Deep purple nightshade dot the Ecuadorean forest. (Chris Kraul / For The Times)
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Hugolino Oñate, the guide-owner of the Cabañas Armonía hostel, uses a high-powered scope for orchid sighting and viewing. A good guide is essential to a successful trip because he or she will see and hear things, particularly in dense, foggy forests, that inexperienced interlopers would miss. (Chris Kraul / For The Times)
The Dracula vampira orchid offers a hint of mystery. (Chris Kraul / For The Times)