Q & A for July 6, 2006

Are there any endangered species in Ecuador? If so, what are they?

— a 7th grader from Wake County

Yes, Ecuador has endangered species — the Andean condor, the spectacled bear, the giant river otter, the manatee, the tapir, the jaguar and the jacurundi (to name a few). There are many others that are endangered due to deforestation.

What kind of houses do families live in?

— a college student from Carteret County

The houses in cities are made of either concrete or brick block. Some have tin roofs or ceramic tile roofs. Many houses have flat tops so you can add another floor. The houses in rural areas are made of either wood or bamboo with thatch roofs or brick block with tin roofs.

What is it like working with kids from other countries?

— a 7th grade student from Wake County

We worked with children from one of the classrooms we visited. The kids in Ecuador are just like you. They are well mannered and want to learn. Everyone is concerned about their education. Children travel far to attend school. We met adults in their 80’s who are just now learning to read and write.

How did the cloud forest get its name?

— a 7th grade student from Wake County

The cloud forest got its name because as precipitation moves inland from the coast, it rises and condenses into clouds. During the wet season at Bellavista (a cloud forest we visited) it can rain as much as three feet in one day.

<< Previous | 2006 Q & A | Next >>