January 29th, 2011
I have realized how enjoyable and how informative it is to read other people's threads, so I thought I would start my own!
A little bit about me though first! I am a 22 year old Canadian who just finished my degree in Ecology. I have actually only been into birds for about 2 years, but only started to seriously bird in the last year.
Anyways, about my trip! I had two months between living in Halifax, Nova Scotia and starting a job in Texas working on Black-capped Vireo project. I had really wanted to get some experience mist-netting, so I thought I would try to apply for some volunteer positions that I found posted online. Argh, no luck!
I didn't give up, but I did broaden my horizons, and started emailing any organization that I felt strongly about. On a leap of faith, I booked a flight to Ecuador. When I got here, I had some friends help me out, and then ta-da, I landed myself in Los Yapas Botanical Garden.
Hmmh, well that's not birds! But I did start my own project monitoring the bird biodiversity here. You see, this park's aim is to restore the forest to hopefully it's primary state. They know this is a monumental task, but they mainly want to provide a sanctuary for the biodiversity in the area, whether it be plants or birds!
So here I am, on day 12 of my 55 day trip! I have been keeping a good bird journal, so I will do individual posts for each day, rather than just list what I have seen!
Hi, Nicole - Looking forward to your adventures in Ecuador. Where in Ecuador is Los Yapas?
Some very good Texas species you have listed. Were they recently seen?
Steve