It all began during the pandemic. At that time, we would come to our small farms to work our fields and grow crops that could help us get through those difficult years. We started by cultivating cassava, beans, vegetables, and other produce for our own consumption. It was during this time that we began to notice the Marvelous Spatuletail hummingbird.

We would see it at certain times of the day, although it was not easy to spot. Its visits were quite occasional. Over time, we realized that this hummingbird was beginning to visit us more frequently. This sparked our interest, and we decided to take the next step: to start reforesting the area and creating a suitable habitat for the species.

To help support its diet, we began planting flowers native to the area, especially species found in the Amazonas region. We also supplemented its food sources with feeders filled with nectar. But there is one plant that plays a particularly special role. We know it as moscal, although locally it is also called olchoc. It is native to this area, and its flowers are one of the Marvelous Spatuletail’s favorite sources of food.

That is why, for us, protecting this plant is essential. Without it, this hummingbird would not have the same chances of remaining here. What began as a necessity eventually became a way to protect and restore the habitat of one of the most remarkable birds found in this part of Amazonas and in the world.