Jorge is a highly respected local resident in the Mache-Chindul Reserve and a core member of FCAT since 2003. Jorge is passionate about field biology and community conservation, with a broad expertise that includes radio-tracking, camera trapping and avian observation. His research focuses on the endangered long-wattled umbrellabird and the frugivory and dispersal of palm communities. Jorge has received the ‘Conservation Hero Award’ from Disney World Wildlife Conservation for his work with FCAT, and has disseminated the results of his research via peer-reviewed publication and presentations in international scientific meetings, including the ‘best presentation award’ at the IV meeting of the Ecuadorian Ornithological Society.