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Phase 2 ran from February through until May of 2008 to coincide with the wet season on Yadua Taba. We had a wet and wild time of it but the added rain brought us the bonus of extra fresh water and even filled up the dry creek pools enough for a bath!
This Phase saw the continuation of the projects initiated in Phase 1; iguana mark and recapture survey, iguana impacts on seed germination, tropical dry forest plant phenology, and crazy ant density and distribution. In addition to this research a number of new projects were started, including the Pacific rat mark and recapture survey and iguana nesting ecology. The team recorded the first information on iguana nesting habits in the wild.
When not out conducting field work on Yadua Taba island the Team stayed in the village of Denumanu, on Yadua island, with the National Trust Ranger, Pita Biciloa, and his family. This was a change from Phase 1 field season when the team set up base at the former ‘Greenforce’ camp, outside the village. Living in the village for part of the time required moving and rewiring the solar system, organizing new accommodation, and learning to integrate into village life. In the end, once all the changes had taken place, the move allowed a closer friendship and understanding to develop between Team members and villagers and many songs were sung and bowls of kava shared of an evening!
We are all looking forward to the next trip beginning November 2008! |
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