NEOTROPICAL
Elfin Forest

The rainforest of the Neotropics covers a huge geographical area, from southern Brazil north to southern Mexico. Within that area, it also varies in form and species composition as it grows from sea-level in the lowlands of the Amazon, to the cloud forest in the Andes, and the seasonally dry forest of Central America and the Caribbean islands. At the very high altitudes a very different looking forest grows, a stunted 'elfin' forest.

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 At the very limit of rainforest growth in the mountains, the exposed trees can only grow in a short form. The higher altitude rainforest has a lot of lichens and moss covering the trees. The forest is misty and quiet. As one travels down in altitude, the trees grow taller, and the ease of birding peaks at the mid-altitude rainforest.  

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The most diverse family of plants in the world are the Orchids. with up to 35,000 species. Most tropical orchids are epiphytic (growing on other plants), with some being lithophytic (growing on rocks). The flowers of orchids are famous because they have varied colours, elaborate patterns and bizarre shapes. Part of their unusual shape is due to the uneven petal arrangement, which is known as zygomorphic, and there is frequently a twisting and elongation of the sepals and petals. The unusual flowers of many species have evolved specifically with particular species of insects, most commonly wasps. If pollinated, the flowers are followed by small, hard fruits that release lots of tiny seeds. In the tropical Americas, they seem to be easiest to see in the stunted high altitude cloud forest...

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The great range of moths in the Neotropical rainforests can be appreciated by checking out the lighter coloured walls that are lit up in lodges at night: or even better, hang up a white sheet and light it up... 

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The Hummingbirds are a huge family of over 335 species, with many different distinct genera. 

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The largest family of birds in the world is the Family Tyrannidae, the Tyrant Flycatchers.

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Species in the Thrush family the Turdidae are commonly seen.

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Tanagers are one of the most colourful and diverse group of birds in the Neotropical jungle. They are the second largest family of birds, with over 200 species. Many are colourful, and most are distinct enough to be easily recognisable. All the species in the Tanager are restricted to the Neotropics; many have small distributions.

Places to experience the South American Elfin Forest

 The Wayqecha Lodge is situated right in the Elfin forest.