March Program Meeting

Birding in Ecuador, by Kevin Groeneweg

Kevin visited Southern Ecuador in February of 2026. He will share photos of some of the over 300 species seen during this two-week trip that targeted the endemics of the Tumbesian biodiversity region of South America. The Tumbesian region is a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot straddling the border of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Known for its highly restricted-range species, it contains 58 endemic bird species and unique ecosystems ranging from equatorial dry forests to pristine coastal mangrove swamps. Kevin will share photos of some of the over 300 species seen during this two-week trip, spending time in several of the special conservation areas sponsored by the Jocotoco Foundation, where sought-after species such as the Jocotoco Antpitta, El Oro Parakeet, and Ecuador’s newest endemic, the Blue-throated Hillstar, were found. This program pays tribute to Tom Ewert, who organized the trip and spent his last days birding in Ecuador.

Kevin’s first international birding trip was to Ecuador in 2005. His love of travel has since taken him and his wife Laura to many countries around the world in search of new and fascinating birds. Kevin has held various positions on the Wichita Audubon Society Board, including President, and currently serves as Treasurer. He also serves on the Board of the Kansas Ornithological Society. He has birded extensively in every county in Kansas, and has visited most of the major birding hotspots in the U.S.

This program pays tribute to Tom Ewert, who organized the trip and spent his last days birding in Ecuador.

NOTE: Our programs this year will be in the Cargill Learning Center at the Sedgwick County Zoo. We will also have dinner with our speaker before the program at Jason’s Deli, 7447 W 21st St N, at 5:30 pm.