The harpy eagle returns to Yasuní

For the second year in a row, a ‘harpy eagle’ has returned to nest in the Kichwa Añangu community's protected territory deep within Ecuador's Yasuní National Park.

This is more than just a remarkable wildlife sighting. It is evidence that long-term conservation efforts are creating conditions that allow one of the Amazon's most iconic and threatened birds of prey to return, reproduce, and thrive.

Harpy eagles rely on vast stretches of intact rainforest, towering emergent trees, and healthy ecosystems. Their return reflects years of community-led conservation efforts that balance forest protection with responsible tourism. The nesting site is located within the Añangu territory, home to the Napo Wildlife Center, a lodge owned and operated by the Kichwa Añangu community.

To celebrate this milestone, our partners at the Napo Wildlife Center shared a short video documenting the harpy eagle's return, its nesting site, and the ongoing conservation efforts protecting this extraordinary corner of the Amazon.

For travelers passionate about wildlife, birdwatching, photography, or conservation, this is a rare opportunity to experience one of the world's richest ecosystems alongside the people who have protected it for generations. Guided by local naturalists, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the Amazon's biodiversity and support a tourism model that helps safeguard it for the future.

Watch the harpy eagle's return to Yasuní:

*Video provided by Napo Wildlife Center

Interested in creating more nature-focused journeys in Ecuador? Reach out to our team to learn more about wildlife, birding, and conservation experiences across the country.