For those interested in gaining experience with tropical herpetology and Eleutherdactylus frogs:
In May 2014, I will be conducting a herpetological survey in Hormiga Valley, Patillas, Puerto Rico, along with six undergraduate students from various Puerto Rican universities looking to gain field experience in herpetology. This survey is part of a larger project that is being funded in-part by the Mohammad bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, and focuses on determining the range of five target species: Eleutherodactylus locustus (IUCN: Critically-endangered) Eleutherodactylus wightmanae (IUCN: Endangered) Eleutherodactylus cooki (IUCN: Vulnerable) Eleutherodactylus portoricencis (IUCN: Endangered) Eleutherodactylus richmondi (IUCN: Critically-endangered) All species have been confirmed present in Hormiga during a preliminary survey, but little is known about the populations of these and other amphibians in the area. During the survey, we will use several methods to capture, identify, and release amphibians, including: Pitfall traps Daytime leaf-litter surveys Nighttime visual-encounter transect surveys My goals during the survey are to obtain a baseline range (utilizing GPS) that show where in the valley each target species is found; data on habitat/microhabitat utilization; data on behavior. The data collected from this survey will be shared with the local office of the US Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as the Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources and the Environment so that they may utilize it in future conservation efforts. I have a minimum of three and maximum of six spots open for students from non-Puerto Rican universities who are interesting in helping with this survey. Puerto Rico is a US Territory, and thus easy for US citizens to travel to(you don't need a passport). The forests are safe compared to other tropical forests (no deadly snakes, no large predators), and thus are perfect for people who are interested in, but have no experience with, tropical forest ecosystems. This would be a good opportunity for undergraduates wanting to gain field experience. In addition, we'll end the trip with a day in Old San Juan so you can get some cultural immersion while you are in Puerto Rico. SCHEDULE: May 23rd- Arrival day, bus picks you up at airport at 3:00pm for transport to project site, orientation, stay overnight at the homestead. May 24th- May 28th- Survey of Hormiga Valley, camping in tents. Work will be both day and night, with afternoon break time to rest. May 28th- Return to homestead in the evening, discussions of findings, celebrate with a hot meal! May 29th- Depart for Old San Juan, dinner at Cafe Puerto Rico, stay overnight in hostel May 30th- Departure day, cab takes you from hostel to SJU airport COST: $1,000.00- This amount includes transport to the project site from the airport, transport from the project site to Old San Juan, and cab fare from the hostel to the airport on the morning of departure. This also includes all food at the homestead and in the field, as well as a food budget on the day out in Old San Juan. Lastly, this covers the cost of the hostel on the night in Old San Juan, and the cost of accommodations for the two nights at the homestead (21st and 27th). The cost DOES NOT INCLUDE souvenirs/personal spendig on the day out, alcohol on the day out, flight to and from Puerto Rico. To book your spot on this trip, you must pay a 50% deposit that is non- refundable if you decide to cancel. The remaining 50% must be paid no later than May 10th. In the event that the minimum people do not sign up for the trip, then all deposits will be refunded. Requirements: Must be at least 18 years old. Must be physically fit- Hormiga Valley is difficult to navigate Must be able to provide three references. Must be able to follow instructions, not only for the integrity of the survey, but for safety- certain spots in Hormiga Valley must be navigated carefully due to risk of falling. Must be able to maintain a good attitude and work ethic in adverse conditions; we will be conducting the survey during the rainy season, so be prepared to work in downpours. Must have travel insurance, or proof of insurance that will cover you while in Puerto Rico. If you are interested, please send a CV, three letters of reference (from professors, teachers, or supervisors) and short email introducing yourself and what you hope to gain from this trip to: Norman Greenhawk [email protected] Also, please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have.
