WEEK TWO

Archaeoprepona□

What a week it has been! Despite the unpredictable weather that makes the road unpassable for days at a time, we've managed to collect data on over 290 butterflies. From little stunners like Ancyluri to the grand and majestic Morpho, we've seen a range of species that is likely to extend as we make our way into the primary forest. 

Our plan for next week is to explore this area of untouched rainforest. We will then compare it to recently logged (2016/7) and previously logged (2013) parts of the concession to understand the dynamics of forest recovery. Over the next couple of years, Green Gold Forestry Group (GGF) plan to harvest timber from our selected primary forest sites, so our data could provide an excellent foundation for further research too. I am excited about the science as much as the wildlife we might see, and the thought that we could be the first people to set foot on that patch of soil.

In terms of wildlife, we've seen several jaguar tracks (one footprint the size of my hand!) as well as pink river dolphins 10 meters from where we were sat on the river bank, both equally overwhelming! 

One thing that I would like to mention over everything else is how grateful I am for the support we have received from GGF, who recently hired and delivered a 4x4 polaris for us to have more independence and better access to our sites, and to everybody working behind the scenes to make this project possible. I am excited for what data, discoveries and consequences come of our combined efforts, and to share this with you and a wider audience. 

Thank you, and I hope these little blogs are an enjoyable insight into what we are doing here in Peru. 

bait for the butterflies □

Gabby and Mahika by El Rio Napo □

The Lab □

Bertie Beetle - the most stubborn insect I have ever known! □