Tapichalaca, Ecuador

Situated in the tropical Andes where deforestation is a significant threat, primarily from expansion of smallholder agriculture.

The reserve is an important site for orchid and bird conservation with over 800 plant species, 30 endemic orchids. It is home to the endangered Jocotoco Antpitta and the Tapichalaca Tree frog which is restricted to this reserve.

The reserve acts as link between the Podocarpus and Yacuri National Parks and coordinates protection of local forests that provide water catchment for lower elevation communities.