Description

In this program, students will have an opportunity to directly experience a range of unique and fascinating ecosystems along with the plants and animals they contain. Ecuador is one of the most biologically diverse countries on earth with habitats ranging from lowland rain forest to treeless alpine regions in the Andes Mountains. The two and a half (2.5) week program will emphasize direct exposure to a range of tropical habitats and organisms. In addition, Tropical Field Biology will provide extensive experience in formulating and testing hypotheses relevant to tropical biology and conservation.

Our primary study location will be the Tiputini Biodiversity Station located in the lowland tropical forest in eastern Ecuador, adjacent to Yasuni National Park. Tiputini is located in the western part of the Amazon basin, an area with an extremely diverse community of plants and animals. The extensive forest around Tiputini has seen little disturbance or hunting and contains many animals that are now rare elsewhere. With the aid of the station staff, participants will explore the surrounding forest and river. The natural history, ecology, evolution, and conservation biology of local organisms and habitats will be introduced by the course instructor and local guides. Students will design and carry out short research projects in animal and plant ecology both in groups and individually.

In addition to the intensive experience at Tiputini the program will also briefly visit other locations in Ecuador for comparative purposes and exposure to a range of tropical habitats and insight into the evolution of biological diversity. The different sites will have experienced varying degrees of human impact, providing an opportunity to investigate conservation issues.

Course activities may include guided forest and mountain hikes, forest canopy visits via tower and walkway, boat excursions, night hikes and birdwatching. Possible social and cultural activities include: river float, swimming, horseback riding and tours of colonial Quito.

Eligibility
This program is open to all interested students. Students must have taken an introductory biology class.

Housing
While in Tiputini, students will stay in cabins with two ensuite bedrooms that house four students in each bedroom. Each room has a porch. All meals are included while at Tiputini. Housing at other locations will be in similar accommodations or hotels.