phase 14 084 science report final
TRANSCRIPT
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GVI Costa Rica
Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife
Research Expedition
Phase Report 081
11th January 21st March 2008
Phase Report 084
October 3rd - December 12th 2008
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GVI Costa Rica Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Research Expedition Report
Submitted in whole to:Global Vision International
The Canadian Organisation for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation
(COTERC)Steven Furino, Waterloo University, Canada
Submitted in part to:The Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica (MINAE)
Produced byDavid Jones Field Coordinator
Rebeca Chaverri - Country DirectorDiogo Verissimo Expedition Staff
Sara Calada Expedition StaffRichard Bull Expedition Staff
Wing Tsui Expedition StaffRichard Phillips Expedition Intern
And
Jess Daniels Expedition Member Emma Baker Expedition Member
Heather Colterman Expedition Member Victoria Sosaya Expedition Member
Sarah-Jayne Ostle Expedition Member Claudia Baxter Expedition Member
Daniel Jarvis Expedition Member Catherine Ryder Expedition Member
Kirstie Puskas Expedition Member Christian Styranka Expedition Member
Sarah Shotwell Expedition Member Gary Barber Expedition Member
Cody Glasbrenner Expedition Member Katie Wiese Expedition Member
Joanna Owen Expedition Member Michael Buckland Expedition Member
Elizabeth Page Expedition Member Jessica Welch Expedition Member
GVI Costa Rica Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife Research Expedition
Address: Estacin Biolgica Cao Palma, Tortuguero, Costa RicaTel: (+506) 2709 8052
Email: [email protected]
Web page:
http://www.gvi.co.uk
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com
mailto:[email protected]://www.gvi.co.uk/http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/http://www.gvi.co.uk/mailto:[email protected] -
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Table of Contents
1
General introduction.................................................................................................. 5
2 Jaguar Predation of Marine Turtles Study.................................................................62.1 Results .............................................................................................................. 62.2 Related links...................................................................................................... 7
3 Jaguar Camera Trapping Study ................................................................................ 73.1 Results .............................................................................................................. 83.2 Related links...................................................................................................... 9
4 Marine Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Programme .......................................... 94.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 104.2 Related links....................................................................................................12
5 Canal Bird Monitoring Programme.......................................................................... 125.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 135.2 Related links....................................................................................................156 Incidental Species Study.........................................................................................166.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 16
7 Meteorology and Environmental Study ................................................................... 187.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 18
8 Canal Boat Impact Study.........................................................................................198.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 20
9 English Language and Environmental Education Classes...................................... 229.1 Summary ......................................................................................................... 239.2 Related links....................................................................................................23
10 Activities and Final Summary..................................................................................24List of Tables
Table 2-1 Breakdown of main results for phase and season .......................................6Table 3-1 General data ................................................................................................8Table 3-2 Trapping site information .............................................................................8Table 3-3 Presence / absence of known species this phase .......................................8Table 4-1 Summary of Phase 083 results for Playa Norte and Nesting Season so far
...................................................................................................................................10 Table 5-1 General phase totals for all canals.............................................................13Table 5-2 Unusual recordings for phase per canal ....................................................14Table 5-3 Presence/absence of species for phase ....................................................14Table 5-4 Presence/absence of species per canal for phase ....................................15
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Table 6-1 Overview of incidental totals this phase.....................................................16Table 6-2 Most commonly recorded species by class for phase ...............................16
Table 6-3 Special Interest sightings for phase...........................................................17
Table 7-1 Weekly environmental averages for phase................................................18Table 7-2 Monthly environmental averages for year..................................................19Table 8-1 Boat use restriction on Cao Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica. ..................19Table 8-2 General Canal boat impact data for phase ................................................20Table 8-3 Average canal usage for phase by ACTo time restriction..........................20Table 8-4 Activity by usage type ................................................................................20List of Figures
Figure 3-1 Bairds Tapir................................................................................................9Figure 4-1 Nest Status as determined by morning census Jan September 2008...12Figure 6-1 Most commonly recorded species for phase (recorded 75% of days)....17Figure 6-2 Some incidental records for the phase: green iguana, Neotropical river
otter and eyelash palm pitviper ..................................................................................18Figure 8-1 Percentage canal usage tourist vs. non-tourist.........................................21Figure 8-2 Breakdown of canal usage by Tourist Lodge............................................21Figure 8-3 Total number of boat by time for phase....................................................22
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1 General introduction
In July 2005, GVI established the Costa Rica expedition based at Estacin BIolgica
Cao Palma (EBCP), Tortuguero.
The biological station is located in the southern section of the Barra del Colorado
Wildlife Refuge (BCWR) directly to the north of Tortuguero National Park (TNP). The
area of operation for the expedition covers both TNP and the BCWR; both of which
are included in the Tortuguero Conservation Area (ACTo). The area consists of a
collection of waterways running through Caribbean lowland rainforest. The coastal
habitats are generally similar in type throughout the area of operation with small
variation in boarding habitats, width of the beach and quantity and type of debris
found on the beach. The forest habitats vary more considerably with several distinct
habitats being present. Altitudinal differences of a couple metres have a large effect
on both habitat and species composition in the area. Lower areas, such as those
found around the station, tend have large areas of flooded forest whereas the drier
areas associated to the National Park tend to only be submerged during times of
flooding.
The EBCP was purchased in 1991, by the Canadian Organization for Tropical
Education and Rainforest Conservation (COTERC). Prior to GVIs arrival a number of
studies had been undertaken, looking at various species and habitats but no longer
term monitoring projects had been possible. GVI Costa Ricas volunteer resource
made long-term studies possible and needs were assessed and partnerships
sourced. Currently, GVI Costa Rica is working closely with MINAE, COTERC and the
local community of San Francisco, as well as being a member of Alianza para Baulas
del Caribe (ABC) and Red de las Tortugas marinas.
This report is a quarterly review of the data collected in the fourth volunteer cycle of
2008 (Phase 084: October 3rd - December 12th). In addition to those listed, GVI
Costa Rica is also supplying resources and personnel to assist COTERC in a Large
Mammal Monitoring Programme inside the BCWR. Further details of GVI Costa Rica
research programmes and all protocols can be found at
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com.
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2 Jaguar Predation of Marine Turtles Study
GVI Costa Rica has been conducting this research by request of the Costa Rican
Ministry for the Environment and Energy (MINAE) since July 2005. The aim of this
project is to determine whether predation of marine turtles by jaguars (Panthera
onca) in TNP is having an impact on the marine turtle populations.
Data collection for this project involves documenting evidence of jaguar predation of
marine sea turtles. On a weekly basis, a survey team walk 14.5 miles on the beach
of TNP. Information is collected, such as, the number and location of predated
turtles and the presence / absence of turtle and jaguar tracks per half mile on the
beach. Other general information is also recorded, including weather and sand
conditions on the beach.
2.1 Results
Eight surveys were conducted this phase, covering 116 miles; making 246.5 miles for
the season (beginning July).
Table 2-1 Breakdown of main results for phase and season
Jag sightings 4
Number of full turtles tracks this phase: 2230
Number of full turtles tracks this season: 16310
Number of newly recorded dead turtles this phase 71
Number of dead turtles this year 198
Number of dead turtles this season (Jul Jun): 162
Area of highest turtle activity this phase 7
Area of highest jag activity this phase 9, 9.5, 12.5
Area of highest turtle predation this phase 16.5
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2.2 Related links
Sociedad Mesoamericana para la Biologa y la Conservacin: GVI
Costa Rica attended this year's conference in El Salvador, where we
presented results from the Jaguar Predation of Marine Turtles Study.
GVI Costa Rica wins prize at Central American Conservation
Congress: More information on the outcomes of the El Salvador conference.
29th Symposium on Sea Turtle Biology &
Conservation: Abstract accepted to the conference
in February, exploring the drivers behind the jaguar
predation of marine turtles phenomenon.
seaturtle.org - Image Library: GVI Costa Rica images of jaguar
predated turtles - free access for educational purposes.
3 Jaguar Camera Trapping Study
To complement the Predation study, GVI Costa Rica began using camera traps at
the end of 2006. The aim is identify and estimate the abundance of jaguars along the
beach of TNP. Surveys are conducted between one and three times a week by a
small research team. Camera traps are set up in the forest that borders the beach, in
locations where there is evidence of jaguar presence.
The infrared and heat sensitive cameras are checked by a field team on a regular
basis to ensure the cameras are working correctly and to retrieve any photographs
that have been taken. These photographs are developed and analysed by the team
back at the research station.
http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=44861061974&h=9vCIx&u=rzrthhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/11/gvi-costa-rica-wins-prize-at-central.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/11/gvi-costa-rica-wins-prize-at-central.htmlhttp://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=40300868257&h=J5q0I&u=MEvG7http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=40300868257&h=J5q0I&u=MEvG7http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=54682335488&h=HEbQv&u=vBLXKhttp://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=54682335488&h=HEbQv&u=vBLXKhttp://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=40300868257&h=J5q0I&u=MEvG7http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=40300868257&h=J5q0I&u=MEvG7http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/11/gvi-costa-rica-wins-prize-at-central.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/11/gvi-costa-rica-wins-prize-at-central.htmlhttp://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=44861061974&h=9vCIx&u=rzrth -
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3.1 Results
Table 3-1 General data
Number of cameras deployed in field
8
Number of trapping sites4
Table 3-2 Trapping site information
Cam site one Cam site two
Position (MM) 6 Position (MM) 16
Date set 15-Oct-08 Date set 18-Oct-08
Bait Sardines Bait Sardines
Dates checked29-Oct-08, 08-Nov-08, 08-
Dec-08 Dates checked02-Nov-08, 16-Nov-08, 02-
Dec-08Number of trappingnights 53
Number of trappingnights 45
New Results1x Red brocket deer, 3x
Tapir New Results2x Red brocket deer, 2x
Agouti
Cam site three Cam site four
Position (MM) 16 Position (MM) 7.5
Date set 18-Oct-08 Date set 29-Oct-08Bait Chicken stock Bait Chicken stock
Dates checked02-Nov-08, 16-Nov-08, 02-
Dec-08 Dates checked08-Nov-08, 22-Nov-08, 08-
Dec-08Number of trappingnights 45
Number of trappingnights 39
New Results None New Results None
Table 3-3 Presence / absence of known species this phase
SpeciesSite
One
Site TwoSite
Three
Site Four
Agouti (Dasyprocta punctata) 0 1 0 0
Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) 1 0 0 0Central American spider monkey(Ateles geoffroyi) 0 0 0 0Collared peccary (Tayassutajacu) 0 0 0 0Gray four-eyed opossum(Philander opossum) 0 0 0 0
Great curassow (Crax rubra) 0 0 0 0
Jaguar (Panthera onca) 0 0 0 0Mantled howler monkey (Alouattapalliata) 0 0 0 0
Margay (Leopardus wiedii) 0 0 0 0
Nine-banded armadillo (Dasypusnovemcinctus) 0 0 0 0
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Northern racoon (Procyon lotor) 0 0 0 0
Paca (Agouti paca) 0 0 0 0Red brocket deer (Mazamaamericana) 1 1 0 0
Tayra (Eira barbara) 0 0 0 0White-faced capuchin (Cebuscapucinus) 0 0 0 0White-lipped peccary (Tayassupecari) 0 0 0 0
White-nosed coati (Nasua narica) 0 0 0 0White-tailed deer (Odocoileusvirginianus) 0 0 0 0
Figure 3-1 Bairds Tapir
3.2 Related links
Guess the species: notes from the field.
http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=39758387678#/group.php?gid=397583876
78: View many of our camera trap images and much more.
4 Marine Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Programme
This programme has been managed by GVI Costa Rica since 2007 and is carried out
in partnership with COTERC. The aim is to develop a more detailed understanding of
and promote the conservation of the nesting marine turtles that utilise our local
beach, Playa Norte. Playa Norte (north of the beach at Tortuguero) receives up to
four species of endangered and critically endangered marine turtles: green (Chelonia
mydas), leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata)and
the occasional loggerhead(Caretta caretta).
The beach is monitored by teams to record the spatial and seasonal distribution of
nests, the level of illegal poaching, hatchling emergence and hatchling success rates.
Information on the re-emergence of turtles to the nesting beach and / or migration
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/12/guess-species.htmlhttp://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=39758387678#/group.php?gid=39758387678http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=39758387678#/group.php?gid=39758387678http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=39758387678#/group.php?gid=39758387678http://www.facebook.com/posted.php?id=39758387678#/group.php?gid=39758387678http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/12/guess-species.html -
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between beaches is also collected and recorded. Human Impact data are recorded
to determine if this has any impact on the nesting patterns of the turtles.
There are a number of different elements within this project, depending on the stage
of the season. During the nesting season, the beach is monitored each night in order
to record details of the nesting turtles and nests (including the location of the nest
and number of eggs) and to tag the female nesting turtles. A morning census is
conducted each day to determine the status of the recent nests and record any new
tracks of nesting turtles. The beach is cleaned at the relevant locations and times to
promote increased hatching success.
Hatchling tracks are monitored and recorded and nest excavations are carried out
(once the nest has hatched or is past the date it was due to hatch) to determine thesuccess rate of the nest and record any relevant evidence on why eggs have not
hatched.
4.1 Results
During phase 084, 63 morning surveys and 36 night surveys were completed. A total
of 3120 miles were walked on morning surveys and night surveys together this
season for a total of 2464 hours of survey.
This phase we have recorded the presence of green and hawksbill turtles nesting on
Playa Norte. For the season, we have also recorded leatherback turtles.
Table 4-1 Summary of Phase 083 results for Playa Norte and Nesting Season so far
Status of nests found this phase 72% Natural; 14% Unknown; 14% Poached
Status of nests found this season 80% Natural; 9% Unknown; 11% Poached
Number of nests recorded this phase Dc: 0; Cm: 43; Ei: 2; Cc: 0
Number of nests recorded this season Dc: 90; Cm: 436; Ei: 27; Cc: 0
Area of highest nesting this phase 7/8
Area of highest nesting this season 5/8
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Number of relocations this phase Dc: 0; Ei: 0
Number of relocations this season Dc: 9; Ei: 0
Hour with the most encountered turtles this phase 23H00 - 00h00
Hour with the most encountered turtles this season 23h00 - 00h00
Number of REC this phase Dc: 0; Cm: 9; Ei: 1; Cc: 0
Number of REM this phase Dc: 0; Cm: 10; Ei: 0; Cc: 0
Number renesting turtles this phase Dc: 0; Cm:4 ; Ei: 0; Cc: 0
Area of highest HLF this phase 3
Number of hatched nests this season Dc: 15; Cm: 114; Ei: 4; Cc: 0
Number of hatchlings this phase Dc: 0 ; Cm: 10139; Ei:0 ; Cc: 0
Number of hatchlings this season Dc: 1360; Cm: 11689; Ei: 492; Cc: 0
Status of excavated nests this phase79% Natural; 8% Partially Poached 10% Poached; 2% Predated;
1% Unknown
Status of excavated nests this season80% Natural; 2% Predated 11% Poached; 6% Partially Poached;
1% Unknown
Percentage success rate for normal nests thisseason Dc: 66 % ; Cm: 86% ; Ei: 66% ; Cc: 0%
Percentage success rate for relocated neststhis season Dc: 41%; Cm: ; Ei: ; Cc:
Number of LIF records this season 14
Number of DEC records this season 5
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Figure 4-1 Nest Status as determined by morning census Jan September 2008
Nest Status as determined by morning census Jan September 2008
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
Natural
Poached
Unknown
Drop Page Fields Here
Count of Nest Status
Nest Status Drop Series Fields Here
Full 2008 season reports for leatherbacks, greens and hawksbills will be available in
2009.
4.2 Related links
Red para la conservacin de la tortugas marinas de Costa Rica
www.redtortugasmarinascr.org
Alianza para las baulas del Caribe (ABC) / Caribbean Leatherback Alliance
www.latinamericanseaturtles.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=78&
Itemid=143
5 Canal Bird Monitoring Programme
The partnership with Steven Furino of Waterloo University, Canada has been
established since GVI Costa Ricas arrival in 2005, the current protocols have been
in place since January 2007. The aim is to provide evidence to help develop an
understanding of how resident and migratory bird species use lowland wet forests
and, in particular, the canals that are associated with these forests.
http://www.redtortugasmarinascr.org/http://www.latinamericanseaturtles.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=78&Itemid=143http://www.latinamericanseaturtles.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=78&Itemid=143http://www.latinamericanseaturtles.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=78&Itemid=143http://www.latinamericanseaturtles.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=78&Itemid=143http://www.redtortugasmarinascr.org/ -
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We are responsible for collecting population data on resident and migratory birds on
canals in the TNP and the BCWR. In order to do this we monitor and record the bird
species found on three different canal at weekly intervals. Thirty target species of
birds have been identified and standard research methods are employed, such as
standard point counts and area search survey techniques, to ensure the data can be
used alongside that collected in other locations by other research teams. Surveys are
usually carried out first thing in the morning and involve a team of five or six canoeing
through the relevant area, recording any sightings and sounds of the target species.
5.1 Results
Table 5-1 General phase totals for all canals
Canal Number of surveys
Cao Palma 7
Cao Chiquero 7
Cao Harold 7
Number of species recorded Phase Total
Cao Palma 14
AQTs 14
Cao Chiquero 8
Cao Harold 15
All canal 22
Number of individuals recorded Phase Total
Cao Palma 133
AQTs 636
Cao Chiquero 56
Cao Harold 133
Total 958
Most commonly recorded species this phase
Cao Palma Yellow-crowned night-heron
AQTs Little blue heron
Cao Chiquero Little blue heron
Cao Harold Green heron
Overall Little blue heron
Canal Number of hours on survey
Cao Palma 24hr 57min
Cao Chiquero 16hr 32min
Cao Harold 26hr 50min
Total number of hours on survey 68hr 19min
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Table 5-2 Unusual recordings for phase per canal
Canal Unusual sightings recorded
Cao PalmaGray-necked wood-rail, Little blue heron, Rufescent tiger-heron, Snowyegret
AQTs ----------
Cao Chiquero Northern jacana, Snowy egret
Cao Harold White-throated crake
Table 5-3 Presence/absence of species for phase
Key
Uncommonly recorded
Uncommonly recorded on indicated canal
Study Species 1/0
Agami heron (Agamia agami) 0
Amazon kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona) 1
American pygmy kingfisher (Chloroceryle aenea) 1
Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga) 1
Bare-throated tiger-heron (Tigrisoma mexicanum) 1
Belted kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon) 1
Boat-billed heron (Cochlearius cochlearius) 1
Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) 1
Great blue heron (Ardea herodias) 0
Great egret (Casmerodius albus) 1
Green heron (Butorides s. virescens) 1
Green ibis (Mesembrinibis cayennensis) 1
Green kingfisher (Chloroceryle americana) 1
Green-and-Rufus kingfisher (Chloroceryle inda) 1
Gray-necked wood-rail (Aramides cajanea) 1
Least bittern (Ixobrychus exilis) 0
Limpkin (Aramus guarauna) 0
Little blue heron (Egretta caerulea) 1
Neotropical cormorant (Phalacrocorax olivaceus) 0
Northern jacana (Jacana spinosa) 1
Purple gallinule (Porphyrula martinica) 0
Reddish egret (Egretta rufescens) 0
Ringed kingfisher (Ceryle torquata) 1
Rufescent tiger-heron (Tigrisoma lineatum) 1
Snowy egret (Egretta thula) 1
Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias) 0
Sungrebe (Heliornis fulica) 1
Tricoloured heron (Egretta tricolour) 0White-throated crake (Laterallus albigularis) 1
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Yellow-crowned night heron (Nyctanassa violacea) 1
Total Species 21
Table 5-4 Presence/absence of species per canal for phase
Palma 1/0 AQTs 1/0 Chiquero 1/0 Harold 1/0
Agami heron 0 Agami heron 0 Agami heron 0 Agami heron 0
Amazon kingfisher 1 Amazon kingfisher 1 Amazon kingfisher 0 Amazon kingfisher 1American pygmykingfisher 1
American pygmykingfisher 0
American pygmykingfisher 0
American pygmykingfisher 0
Anhinga 0 Anhinga 1 Anhinga 1 Anhinga 1Bare-throatedtiger-heron 1
Bare-throatedtiger-heron 1
Bare-throated tiger-heron 1
Bare-throatedtiger-heron 1
Belted kingfisher 0 Belted kingfisher 1 Belted kingfisher 0 Belted kingfisher 0
Boat-billed heron 0 Boat-billed heron 0 Boat-billed heron 0 Boat-billed heron 1
Cattle egret 0 Cattle egret 1 Cattle egret 0 Cattle egret 0
Great blue heron 0 Great blue heron 0 Great blue heron 0 Great blue heron 0
Great egret 1 Great egret 1 Great egret 0 Great egret 1
Green heron 1 Green heron 1 Green heron 1 Green heron 1
Green ibis 1 Green ibis 1 Green ibis 0 Green ibis 1
Green kingfisher 1 Green kingfisher 1 Green kingfisher 1 Green kingfisher 1Green-and-rufuskingfisher 1
Green-and-rufuskingfisher 0
Green-and-rufuskingfisher 0
Green-and-rufuskingfisher 1
Gray-neckedwood-rail 1
Gray-neckedwood-rail 0
Gray-necked wood-rail 0
Gray-neckedwood-rail 0
Least bittern 0 Least bittern 0 Least bittern 0 Least bittern 0
Limpkin 0 Limpkin 0 Limpkin 0 Limpkin 0
Little blue heron 1 Little blue heron 1 Little blue heron 1 Little blue heron 1Neotropicalcormorant 0
Neotropicalcormorant 0
Neotropicalcormorant 0
Neotropicalcormorant 0
Northern jacana 0 Northern jacana 1 Northern jacana 1 Northern jacana 0
Purple gallinule 0 Purple gallinule 0 Purple gallinule 0 Purple gallinule 0
Reddish egret 0 Reddish egret 0 Reddish egret 0 Reddish egret 0
Ringed kingfisher 1 Ringed kingfisher 1 Ringed kingfisher 0 Ringed kingfisher 1Rufescent tiger-heron 1
Rufescent tiger-heron 0
Rufescent tiger-heron 0
Rufescent tiger-heron 0
Snowy egret 1 Snowy egret 1 Snowy egret 1 Snowy egret 1
Sunbittern 0 Sunbittern 0 Sunbittern 0 Sunbittern 0
Sungrebe 0 Sungrebe 1 Sungrebe 1 Sungrebe 1
Tricoloured heron 0 Tricoloured heron 0 Tricoloured heron 0 Tricoloured heron 0White-throatedcrake 0
White-throatedcrake 0
White-throatedcrake 0
White-throatedcrake 1
Yellow-crownednight heron 1
Yellow-crownednight heron 0
Yellow-crownednight heron 0
Yellow-crownednight heron 1
Total Species 14 Total Species 14 Total Species 8 Total Species 15
5.2 Related links
Rufescents Return: Notes from the field - seasonal update
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/10/rufescents-return.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/10/rufescents-return.html -
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6 Incidental Species Study
GVI Costa Rica has been recording incidental sightings of animals at EBCP since
January 2007. The aim of the study is to maintain a formal, accurate record of the
daily occurrences of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians sighted within the
property boundaries of the station. By keeping a daily record of the occurrence of
species, we can determine which species are seen most frequently and determine if
there any changes in the frequency of sightings of certain species over time.
6.1 Results
Table 6-1 Overview of incidental totals this phase
Number of species recorded this phase 141
Total number of records this phase 1613
Table 6-2 Most commonly recorded species by class for phase
Birds Mammals Amphibians Reptiles
SpeciesDays
recorded(%)
SpeciesDays
recorded(%)
SpeciesDays
recorded(%)
SpeciesDays
recorded(%)
Great
kiskadee
(Pitangus
sulphuratus) 90
Brazilian long-
nosed bat
(Rhynchonycteris
naso) 88
Strawberry
poison frog
(Dendrobates
pumilio) 81
Green
iguana
(Iguana
Iguana) 77
White-
collared
manakin
(Manacus
candei) 90
Mantled howler
monkey
(Alouatta
palliata) 88
Marine toad
(Bufo
marinus) 30
Yellow-
headed
gecko
(Gonatodes
albogularis) 71
Olive-
backed
euphonia
(Euphonia
gouldi) 78
Central
American
spider monkey
(Ateles geoffroyi) 28
Smoki jungle
frog
(Leptodactylus
pentadactylus) 17
Green
basilisk
(Basiliscus
plumifrons) 61
Montezuma
oropendola
(Psarocolius
montezuma) 77
White-faced
capuchin
(Cebus
capucinus) 22
Green
climbing toad
(Bufo
coniferus) 3
Spectacled
Caiman
(Caiman
crocodilus) 48
Violet-
crowned
Woodnymph
(Thalurania
colombica) 75
Neotropical
River Otter
(Lutra
longicaudis) 6
Red-eyed
tree frog
(Agalychnis
callidryas) 3
Central
American
Whiptail
(Ameiva
festiva) 42
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Figure 6-1 Most commonly recorded species for phase (recorded 75% of days)
50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66 68 70
Great Kiskadee
White-collared Manakin
Brazillian Long-nosed Bat
Mantled Howler Monkey
Strawberry Poison-dart Frog
Olive-backed Euphonia
Green Iguana
Montezuma Oropendola
Violet-crowned Woodnymph
Table 6-3 Special Interest sightings for phase
Species Number of records
American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) 1
Boat-billed Heron (Cochlearius cochlearius) 1
Central American Coral Snake (Micrurus alleni) 1
Eyelash Palm Pitviper(Bothriechis schlegelii) 4
Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops asper) 1
Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) 1
Great Green Macaw (Ara ambigua) 2
Mexican prehensile-tailed porcupine (Coendu mexicanus) 1
Spectacled Owl (Pulsatrix perspicillataI) 1
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Figure 6-2 Some incidental records for the phase: green iguana, Neotropical river otter and
eyelash palm pitviper
7 Meteorology and Environmental Study
COTERC have been recording weather information at the Biological Station to
varying degrees since 1991. Since January 2007, GVI Costa Rica has been assisting
COTERC in the collection and compilation of a set data into the climatological and
environmental conditions experienced at EBCP each day.
7.1 Results
Table 7-1 Weekly environmental averages for phase
WeekAv daily
Rainfall (mm)Total Rainfall
Max Temp(6PM)
Min Temp(6AM)
Average Humidity(%)
Average CanalDepth (cm)
one 2.8 19.8 32 22 88 85
two 5.3 36.9 34 23 86 85
three 1.7 11.7 33 23 82 81four 6.5 45.7 32 23 88 94
five 18.7 86 30 20 90 99
six 15.6 109.5 32 22 89 99
seven 42.9 300.4 30 16 87 110
eight 52.3 366.6 27 19 89 168
nine 31.7 221.8 32 21 89 167
ten 57.2 400.3 32 21 85 138
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Table 7-2 Monthly environmental averages for year
MonthAv daily
Rainfall (mm)Total Rainfall
Max Temp(6PM)
Min Temp(6AM)
Average Humidity(%)
Average CanalDepth (cm)
Jan 12.5 388.6 28.6 22.5 82.1 110.4
Feb 7.9 237 28.8 22.6 83.4 87.2
March 6.1 188.4 30 23 79.8 89.1
Apr 9.4 282.3 30.1 24.3 82.5 93.2
May 6.9 213.4 30 24.5 83.4 90.3
Jun 23.7 687 28.9 24.5 86.4 106.5
July 13.3 411.5 28.3 24.3 88.3 104.7
Aug 17.3 502.6 29.4 23.8 87.4 113.0
Sept 5.1 151.5 30.7 24 86.0 95.1
Oct 6.9 213 29.4 23.9 86.5 90.5
Nov 33 988.7 25.6 22.4 88.8 133.7
Dec
8 Canal Boat Impact Study
GVI Costa Rica has been assisting MINAE by documenting and monitoring the
impact of tourism on our local canal since January 2006. On a weekly basis the canal
traffic along Cao Palma is monitored between 06:00 and 18:00. As possible, all
days of the week are surveyed throughout the phase. Two personnel conduct
surveys, each taking a six-hour shift, between either 06:00 and 12:00 or 12:00 and
18:00.
The number and type of boats are recorded, alongside any other evidence, such as
the number of tourists and the type of engine in line with information recorded for
visitors to TNP canals. The restrictions of use for Cao Palma are outlined below:
Table 8-1 Boat use restriction on Cao Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica.
ACTo Time restriction Number of boats allowed
06:00 08:00 10
08:00 10:00 10
10:00 12:00 10
12:00 14:00 10
14:00 16:00 10
16:00 - 18:00 10
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8.1 Results
Table 8-2 General Canal boat impact data for phase
Number of surveys this phase8
Average number of boats per day for the phase 41.6
Average number of passengers per tourist boat for phase 9.3
Average number of passengers per private boat for phase 4
Average number of people per day 290.5
Most commonly recorded tourist boat for phase Flutterby
Most commonly recorded private boat for phase Kinkajou
Most commonly recorded lodge for phase Vista al Mar
Table 8-3 Average canal usage for phase by ACTo time restriction
Av Number of boats 06:00 08:00 9
Av Number of boats 08:00 10:00 9
Av Number of boats 10:00 12:00 5
Av Number of boats 12:00 14:00 5
Av Number of boats 14:00 16:00 9
Av Number of boats 16:00 18:00 7
Total number of boats for the phase 333
Table 8-4 Activity by usage type
Total number of tourist boats 187
Total number of non-tourist boats 146
Total number of passengers in tourist boats 1747
Total number of passengers in non-tourist boats 577
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Percentage of boats using 4s engines 74.1
Figure 8-1 Percentage canal usage tourist vs. non-tourist
Total number of boats
56%
44%
Total number of tourist boats
Total number of non-touristboats
Figure 8-2 Breakdown of canal usage by Tourist Lodge
52
78
3
6
5
6
2
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Turtle Beach
Lodge
DE's
Evergreen
Laguna Lodge
Pachira Lodge
Samoa Lodge
Tortuga Lodge
Lod
ge
Number of Records
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Figure 8-3 Total number of boat by time for phase
Average number of boats per time interval
0
20
40
60
80
06:00 08:00 08:00 10:00 10:00 12:00 12:00 14:00 14:00 16:00 16:00 18:00
9 English Language and Environmental Education Classes
Local capacity building: GVI Costa Rica are involved with the local school in San
Francisco village, teaching basic English to children and adults within the local
community of San Francisco. An exchange also takes place with colleagues from a
local tourist lodge (seasonal), providing an opportunity for all to practice their
language skills in an informal setting and learn more about the different cultures of
Costa Rica.
Environmental education: GVI Costa Rica, in partnership with COTERC, are
teaching environmental education to school children on a weekly basis. These
classes cover various topics and aim to build an awareness of the environment in
which the children live. We also organise regular community events for the residents
of San Francisco. These events cover an environmental theme, for example
composting, but are also designed to be fun and to continue to promote a good
relationship between local residents and GVI Costa Rica.
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9.1 Summary
With the arrival of Vivian and Daniel in Phase 083 we were able to give far more
consistent classes in San Francisco and together with Sami Abdelmalik (COTERC
Intern) returned to teaching Childrens English, Adults English and Environmental
Education classes on a regular basis.
Adult classes were held two nights a week at the beginning of the phase, moving to
three times by request of the students, of which there were 10 regulars. Childrens
classes were also held three times a week, directly after school classes and once a
week Environmental Education was taught.
Two Community Events were held as usual; the first included a play performed bythe EMs and focused on gardens and ecosystems to introduce the idea of a school
garden to the children. The second focused on the water cycle and water pollution
and saw the completion of the new school garden.
Vivian and Daniel have also been invited to attend school council meeting and
participate in several community activities, forging a tremendously positive
relationship between the biological station and the local community.
9.2 Related links
Jardin del Paraso: Notes from the field unveiling the new Community Garden
Plays, paintings, games and gardens: Notes from the field Community Event
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2009/01/jardin-del-paraso.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/11/plays-paintings-games-and-gardens.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/11/plays-paintings-games-and-gardens.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2009/01/jardin-del-paraso.html -
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10 Activities and Final Summary
Together with the two Community Events in San Francisco this phase, Vivian, one of
our Community Interns, joined the San Francisco Womens Football team and helped
to arrange a pre-season friendly against our female EMs.
The same day saw our social of the year (pictured) with the researchers from the
CCC before they packed up at the end of the marine turtle season.
As the very wet season set in there was work to be done on our local canal (for more
details follow this link: Clearing Cao Palma) before we eventually we had to
evacuate base due to flooding. Luckily for us, by this time the CCC research
assistants had departed back to their home nations, so we were able to experience
conditions at their, much drier, research station.
Throughout the phase, we continued to support the Weaving for Nature project from
Widecast, raising over $100. The project utilises waste plastic bags to make
beautiful, long-lasting designs of bags, purses and more. Find out more here:
http://latinamericanseaturtles.org/blog/?p=14
www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/weaving-for-nature.html
The end of the phase saw the departure of are two-time intern Richard Phillips, wed
like to take this opportunity to thank him for all his hard work over his nine months
with us and wish him all the best for the future. Read more here: Sorrowful
Goodbyes.
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/12/clearing-cao-palma_05.htmlhttp://latinamericanseaturtles.org/blog/?p=14http://www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/weaving-for-nature.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2009/01/end-of-another-phase-has-come-and-gone.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2009/01/end-of-another-phase-has-come-and-gone.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2009/01/end-of-another-phase-has-come-and-gone.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2009/01/end-of-another-phase-has-come-and-gone.htmlhttp://www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/weaving-for-nature.htmlhttp://latinamericanseaturtles.org/blog/?p=14http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/12/clearing-cao-palma_05.html -
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And finally, dont forget to check out www.careersabroad.co.ukwhere you will find
out about job opportunities with us (and partners) first, because none of this is
possible without our dedicated staff and volunteers.
Thank you all,
global vision international Costa Rica.
conservation for everyone, everyone for conservation
http://www.careersabroad.co.uk/http://www.careersabroad.co.uk/