Grupos uno y dos/Groups 1+2: Mica Mae, Ciara, Alexia, Elyse, Amyre, Bailey

Hello from Chamela, day 4!

This morning was quiet, with many of us sleeping right up until breakfast at 7:30 am, after which our first full day of data collection began. Over the past few days, each group has created their own ecological hypothesis that is testable based on resources here at Chamela. The data we collect will be used to create our final research reports for this class. Some subjects of research include lizards, birds, and cacti.

In Group 1, we are testing how the different environments (dry top land vs arroyo) affects leaf morphology, specifically testing the length and width of the leaves of the species Bonellia Macrocarpa. In Group 2, we are testing the hypothesis that water availability fundamentally changes forest structures, altering both tree density and trunk diameter. Our data collection involved marking off 5 by 5 meter quadrats in the forest, and counting and measuring stems.

Though our projects were quite different, they both led us to the same place at the same time; we met up at the arroyo, mid-morning, and spotted some coatis watching us from overhead. We joined forces to make the hike back to campus. A few of us recovered from the journey with a much needed nap.

By 12:30 pm the temperature was at its peak, about 30 degrees C, and we were ready for a break in the AC. We gathered into the classroom to listen to Clarisa and Alexia present their seminars on Mesoamerican crops, and wetland diversity, respectively.

After that, we enjoyed some lunch, and had some down time until the temperature got cooler. Most of us headed back out on the trails around 5-6pm to collect more data. Just before heading out, Ciara spotted a wonderful photoshoot in progress: Steve, Javier, and David all posing in matching cowboy hats.

At 7pm we gathered once again, this time to listen to some species presentations. Jade and Bailey did a fantastic job, but the real highlight of the evening was Steve announcing that tomorrow will be a beach day! After a lot of hard work in the heat, we are ready to relax in the sun.

As one final treat before bed, David spotted a Mexican Burrowing Python. A couple of us got to hold him, and many of us got pictures. It was really special since this was the first time this species of snake had been spotted on this course!

And with that, it’s bedtime. Adios!