Trinidad Expedition 2018

Where? Trinidad is an island in the Caribbean off the coast of Venezuela. The climate in Trinidad is tropical with temperatures reaching mid 30s with high humidity (shorts and t-shirt weather)! We will be traveling all over the island, however the majority of our research takes place in the Northern range.

Important information This expedition typically last 10 weeks, from June-August. Personal contribution is £650-850, (depending on fundraising). Dissertation/honours project opportunities are available for students in Marine & Freshwater Biology, Zoology, Geography and Geology. For the rest of the team it is a fantastic opportunity to get first hand experience with field work, fundraising, working as part of a large team, experimental design and data collection. WE NEED DRIVERS AND BOYS PLEASE!!

Important information We are looking for 8-13 students of any age, stage of study on any degree path. A passion for science, an interest in the natural world, research and conservation is essential. You must be enthusiastic and willing to put the effort in from the fundraising stages through to the actual projects. We are also looking for another leader! Experience with fieldwork, previous expeditions, grant applications, scientific writing, public outreach/engagement and fundraising is beneficial! Please indicate on your application form if you want to be considered for a leadership role!

Research This year we had projects on: Amphibians: personality development in the Túngara frog and investigating the behaviour of tree frogs in response to varying levels of foliage. Involved fieldwork and lab work at the University of the West Indies. Bats: investigating the effects of human disturbance on species diversity and the effect of simple and complex environments on bats echolocation patterns.

Research (continued) This year we had projects on: Leatherback Turtles: conservation, monitoring and data collection. Investigated using egg temperatures as a proxy for body temperature, the variation in body condition in females and their nests over nesting season and nest site selection and construction. Geography: new project looking at environmental degradation and waste management issues in Trinidad. Involved interviews with some of Trinidad’s leading environmental agencies.

The (extra) fun stuff Although you will be working hard, you will get days off to explore the island! Days out included: Trips to the beach Asa Wright Nature Centre (hummingbirds!) Pitch Lake Emancipation Day Parade Beach camp out and BBQ! Steel drum lessons And many more (you may even get a tan)!

Apply today! Our application form can be found on google forms: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc_ZYYIGR4a-7CScKAxG3pOlwoymrrJdcvCm_UpnVrz3VIpNg/viewform?usp=sf_link and on the Exploration Society Website! DEADLINE: MONDAY 17TH OCTOBER AT 12PM