Phase 13 083 Science Report Final

8/14/2019 Phase 13 083 Science Report Final

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GVI Costa Rica

Coastal Rainforest and Wildlife

Research Expedition

Phase Report 081

11th January 21st March 2008

Phase Report 083

11th July 19th September 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 Base Manager

Rebeca Chaverri - Country DirectorDiogo Verissimo Expedition Staff

Sara Calada Expedition StaffBrooke McIntyre Expedition Staff

Richard Bull Expedition StaffWing Tsui Expedition StaffRichard Phillips Expedition Intern

Olivia Couchman Expedition Intern

And

Jack Roper Expedition Member Alexandra Prebble Expedition Member

Vanessa Taylor Expedition Member Darcy McNicholl Expedition Member

Alex Page Expedition Member David Collins Expedition Member

Jennifer Hall Expedition Member Vicky Burt Expedition Member

Lynne Williamson Expedition Member Philip Truman Expedition Member

Bree Johnston Expedition Member Matthew Warner Expedition Member

Shelley Gregory Expedition Member Tiffany Lovelock Expedition Member

Sarah Mercer Expedition Member Belinda Judelman Expedition Member

Clare Prebble Expedition Member Jennifer Lieser Expedition Member

Jessica Spinelli 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....................................................................................................10

4 Marine Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Programme ........................................ 104.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 114.2 Related links....................................................................................................13

5 Canal Bird Monitoring Programme.......................................................................... 135.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 14

6 Incidental Species Study.........................................................................................166.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 177 Meteorology and Environmental Study ................................................................... 19

7.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 198 Canal Boat Impact Study.........................................................................................19

8.1 Results ............................................................................................................ 209 English Language and Environmental Education Classes...................................... 23

9.1 Summary ......................................................................................................... 2310 Activities and Final Summary..................................................................................25List 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 .......................................9Table 4-1 Summary of Phase 083 results for Playa Norte and Nesting Season so far

...................................................................................................................................11 Table 5-1 General phase totals for all canals.............................................................14Table 5-2 Unusual recordings for phase per canal ....................................................14Table 5-3 Presence/absence of species for phase ....................................................15Table 5-4 Presence/absence of species per canal for phase ....................................16


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Table 6-1 Overview of incidental totals this phase.....................................................17Table 6-2 Most commonly recorded species by class for phase ...............................17

Table 6-3 Special Interest sightings for phase...........................................................18

Table 7-1 Weekly environmental averages for phase................................................19Table 7-2 Monthly environmental averages for year..................................................19Table 8-1 Boat use restriction on Cao Palma, Tortuguero, Costa Rica. ..................20Table 8-2 General Canal boat impact data for phase ................................................20Table 8-3 Average canal usage for phase by ACTo time restriction..........................21Table 8-4 Activity by usage type ................................................................................21List of Figures

Figure 2-1 Jaguar photographed on TNP beach this phase ........................................7Figure 3-1 Red brocket deer (female), white-nosed coati and a male red brocket deer

at night. ........................................................................................................................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)....18Figure 6-2 Photos of EBCP incidentals......................................................................18Figure 8-1 Percentage canal usage tourist vs. non-tourist.........................................22Figure 8-2 Breakdown of canal usage by Tourist Lodge............................................22Figure 8-3 Total number of boat by time for phase....................................................23


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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 third volunteer cycle of

2008 (Phase 083: 11th July 19th September). 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.
http://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/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

Nine surveys were conducted this phase, covering 130.5 miles; making 130.5 miles

for the season (beginning July).

Table 2-1 Breakdown of main results for phase and season

Jag sightings 1

Number of full turtles tracks this phase:14080

Number of full turtles tracks this season:14080

Number of newly recorded dead turtles this phase91

Number of dead turtles this year127

Number of dead turtles this season (Jul Jun):

91

Area of highest turtle activity this phase11.5

Area of highest jag activity this phase13.5, 15.5, 17

Area of highest turtle predation this phase7.5


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Figure 2-1 Jaguar photographed on TNP beach this phase

2.2 Related links

Sociedad Mesoamericana para la Biologa y la Conservacin: GVI

Costa Rica had an abstract for predation of marine turtles accepted

to the conference in El Salvador in November.

Read notes from the field in two features from Predation: Walk of life featuring the less gory side of the survey and The elusive jaguar by Jessica

Spinelli, the story of the rare perk that comes with recording data on jaguars!

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
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that have been taken. These photographs are developed and analysed by the team

back at the research station.

3.1 Results

Table 3-1 General data

Number of cameras deployed in field12

Number of trapping sites6

Table 3-2 Trapping site information

Cam site one Cam site two

Position (MM) 15 Position (MM) 15

Cameras in use Cameras in use

Date set 20-Jul-08 Date set 20-Jul-08

Bait Bait

Dates checked03-Aug-08, 10-Aug-08, 24-

Aug-08, 08-Sep-08 Dates checked04-Aug-08, 24-Aug-08, 14-

Sep-08

Results None Results1x Great curassow, 1x

Spider monkey

Cam site three Cam site four

Position (MM) 7 Position (MM)

Cameras in use Cameras in use 7

Date set 23-Jul-08 Date set

Bait Bait 23-Jul-08

Dates checked06-Aug-08, 27-Aug-08, 12-

Sep-08 Dates checked 6-Aug-08, 27-Aug-08

Results

5x Red brocket deer, 2xCommon opossum, 2xAgouti, 1x Coati Results

2x Coati, 2x Agouti, 1xRed brocket deer

Cam site five Cam site six

Position (MM) 6 Position (MM) 15

Cameras in use Cameras in use

Date set 28-Jul-08 Date set 31-Aug-08

Bait Bait

Dates checked08-Aug-08, 27-Aug08, 12-

Sep-08 Dates checked 14-Sep-08

Results3x Red brocket deer, 1x

Paca Results None


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Table 3-3 Presence / absence of known species this phase

SpeciesSiteOne Site Two

SiteThree Site Four

SiteFive Site Six

Agouti (Dasyproctapunctata) 0 0 1 1 0 0

Baird's tapir (Tapirusbairdii) 0 0 0 0 0 0Central American spidermonkey (Atelesgeoffroyi) 0 1 0 0 0 0Collared peccary(Tayassu tajacu) 0 0 0 0 0 0Gray four-eyedopossum (Philanderopossum) 0 0 0 0 0 0Great curassow (Craxrubra) 0 1 0 0 0 0

Jaguar (Panthera onca) 0 0 0 0 0 0Mantled howler monkey(Alouatta palliata) 0 0 0 0 0 0Margay (Leopardus

wiedii) 0 0 0 0 0 0Nine-banded armadillo(Dasypusnovemcinctus) 0 0 0 0 0 0Northern racoon(Procyon lotor) 0 0 0 0 0 0

Paca (Agouti paca) 0 0 0 0 1 0Red brocket deer(Mazama americana) 0 0 1 1 1 0

Tayra (Eira barbara) 0 0 0 0 0 0White-faced capuchin(Cebus capucinus) 0 0 0 0 0 0White-lipped peccary(Tayassu pecari) 0 0 0 0 0 0White-nosed coati

(Nasua narica) 0 0 1 1 0 0White-tailed deer(Odocoileus virginianus) 0 0 0 0 0 0

Figure 3-1 Red brocket deer (female), white-nosed coati and a male red brocket deer at night.


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3.2 Related links

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)andthe 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

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 the

success rate of the nest and record any relevant evidence on why eggs have not

hatched.
http://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=39758387678


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4.1 Results

During phase 083, 70 morning surveys and 115 night surveys were completed. A

total of 2569 miles were walked on morning surveys and night surveys together this

season for a total of 1382 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 phase77% Natural; 9% Unknown; 14% Poached

Status of nests found this season78% Natural; 10% Unknown; 12% Poached

Number of nests recorded this phaseDc: 0; Cm: 294; Ei: 15; Cc: 0

Number of nests recorded this seasonDc: 90; Cm: 320; Ei: 24; Cc: 0

Area of highest nesting this phaseMile 2 7/8

Area of highest nesting this seasonMile 2 7/8

Number of relocations this phaseDc: 0; Ei: 0

Number of relocations this seasonDc: 9; Ei: 0

Hour with the most encountered turtles this phase23: 00 - 00: 00

Hour with the most encountered turtles this season23: 00 - 00: 00

Number of REC this phaseDc: 0; Cm: 48; Ei: 3; Cc: 0

Number of REM this phaseDc: 0; Cm: 43; Ei: 0; Cc: 0

Number renesting turtles this phaseDc: 0; Cm: 13; Ei: 0; Cc: 0

Area of highest HLF this phaseMile 2/8


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Number of hatched nests this seasonDc: 15; Cm: 65; Ei: 4; Cc: 0

Number of hatchlings this phaseDc: 149; Cm:452 ; Ei: 73; Cc: 0

Number of hatchlings this season Dc: 713; Cm:5480 ; Ei: 348; Cc: 0

Status of excavated nests this phase

70 % Natural; 0% Partially Poached; 30% Poached; 0% Predated;

0% Unknown

Status of excavated nests this season

78 % Natural; 7% Partially Poached; 12% Poached; 1% Predated;

2% Unknown

Percentage success rate for normal nests thisseason

Dc: 77% ; Cm: 87% ; Ei: 66% ; Cc: N/A

Percentage success rate for relocated neststhis season

Dc: 35% ; Cm: 93% ; Ei: N/A ; Cc: N/A

Number of LIF records this season11

Number of DEC records this season3

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


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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

Read some interesting notes from the field: Rescue

operation: the "unlifted" turtle by Alex Page and the staff

getting a chance to experience an evening with one of the

oldest marine turtle monitoring programmes in the world:

Turtle tagging training.

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.

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.
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://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/rescue-operation-unlifted-turtle-by.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/rescue-operation-unlifted-turtle-by.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/08/turtle-tagging-training.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/08/turtle-tagging-training.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/rescue-operation-unlifted-turtle-by.htmlhttp://gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/rescue-operation-unlifted-turtle-by.htmlhttp://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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5.1 Results

Table 5-1 General phase totals for all canals

Canal Number of surveys

Cao Palma7

Cao Chiquero7

Cao Harold7

Number of species recorded Phase Total

Cao Palma10

AQTs11

Cao Chiquero12

Cao Harold 13

All canal 16

Number of individuals recorded Phase Total

Cao Palma94

AQTs158

Cao Chiquero32

Cao Harold77

Total361

Most commonly recorded species this phase

Cao PalmaGreen Ibis

AQTs Northern Jacana

Cao ChiqueroBare-throated Tiger-Heron

Cao HaroldBoat-billed Heron

OverallGreen Ibis

Canal Number of hours on survey

Cao Palma24:00

Cao Chiquero18:04

Cao Harold25:10

Total number of hours on survey67:14

Table 5-2 Unusual recordings for phase per canal

Canal Unusual sightings recorded

Cao PalmaBoat-billed Heron

AQTs-------------------------

Cao ChiqueroGray-necked wood-rail

Cao HaroldGray-necked wood-rail, White-throated crake


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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)0

Boat-billed heron (Cochlearius cochlearius)1

Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis)0

Great blue heron (Ardea herodias)1

Great egret (Casmerodius albus)0

Green heron (Butorides s. virescens)0

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)0

Snowy egret (Egretta thula)0

Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias)0

Sungrebe (Heliornis fulica) 1

Tricoloured heron (Egretta tricolour)0

White-throated crake (Laterallus albigularis)1

Yellow-crowned night heron (Nyctanassa violacea)1

Total Species16


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Table 5-4 Presence/absence of species per canal for phase

Palma 1/0 AQTs 1/0 Chiquero 1/0 Harold 1/0

Agami heron0

Agami heron0

Agami heron0

Agami heron0

Amazon kingfisher1

Amazon kingfisher1

Amazon kingfisher1

Amazon kingfisher1

American pygmykingfisher

1American pygmykingfisher



1

Anhinga0

Anhinga1

Anhinga1

Anhinga1

Bare-throatedtiger-heron

1Bare-throatedtiger-heron

1Bare-throated tiger-heron

1Bare-throatedtiger-heron

1

Belted kingfisher0

Belted kingfisher0

Belted kingfisher0

Belted kingfisher0

Boat-billed heron1

Boat-billed heron0

Boat-billed heron0

Boat-billed heron1

Cattle egret0

Cattle egret0

Cattle egret0

Cattle egret0

Great blue heron0

Great blue heron0

Great blue heron1

Great blue heron1

Great egret0

Great egret0

Great egret0

Great egret0

Green heron0

Green heron0

Green heron0

Green heron0

Green ibis1

Green ibis1

Green ibis1

Green ibis1

Green kingfisher1

Green kingfisher1

Green kingfisher0

Green kingfisher1

Green-and-rufuskingfisher

1Green-and-rufuskingfisher



1

Gray-neckedwood-rail

1Gray-neckedwood-rail

1Gray-necked wood-rail

1Gray-neckedwood-rail

1

Least bittern0

Least bittern0

Least bittern0

Least bittern0

Limpkin0

Limpkin0

Limpkin0

Limpkin0

Little blue heron0

Little blue heron1

Little blue heron1

Little blue heron0

Neotropicalcormorant

0Neotropicalcormorant



0

Northern jacana0

Northern jacana1

Northern jacana1

Northern jacana0

Purple gallinule0

Purple gallinule0

Purple gallinule0

Purple gallinule0

Reddish egret0

Reddish egret0

Reddish egret0

Reddish egret0

Ringed kingfisher1

Ringed kingfisher1

Ringed kingfisher1

Ringed kingfisher1

Rufescent tiger-heron

0Rufescent tiger-heron



0

Snowy egret0

Snowy egret0

Snowy egret0

Snowy egret0

Sunbittern0

Sunbittern0

Sunbittern0

Sunbittern0

Sungrebe0

Sungrebe1

Sungrebe1

Sungrebe1

Tricoloured heron0

Tricoloured heron0

Tricoloured heron0

Tricoloured heron0

White-throatedcrake

0White-throatedcrake



1

Yellow-crownednight heron 1




Total Species10

Total Species11

Total Species12

Total Species13

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


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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 150

Total number of records this phase 2177

Table 6-2 Most commonly recorded species by class for phase

Birds Mammals Amphibians Reptiles

SpeciesDays

recorded(%)

SpeciesDays

recorded(%)

SpeciesDays

recorded(%)

SpeciesDays

recorded(%)

Montezuma

oropendola

(Psarocolius

montezuma) 100

Mantled howler

monkey

(Alouatta

palliata) 100

Strawberry

poison frog

(Dendrobates

pumilio) 85

Green basilisk

(Basiliscus

plumifrons) 97

Olive-

backed

euphonia

(Euphonia

gouldi) 97

Brazilian long-

nosed bat

(Rhynchonycteris

naso) 99

Marine toad

(Bufo

marinus) 59

Green iguana

(Iguana

Iguana) 96White-

collared

manakin

(Manacus

candei) 97

Central

American

spider monkey

(Ateles geoffroyi) 58

Smoki jungle

frog

(Leptodactylus

pentadactylus) 13

Yellow-

headed gecko

(Gonatodes

albogularis) 85

Great

kiskadee

(Pitangus

sulphuratus) 94

White-faced

capuchin

(Cebus

capucinus) 27

Green

climbing toad

(Bufo

coniferus) 4

Central

American

Whiptail

(Ameiva

festiva) 83

Purple-

throated

fruit crow

(Querula

purpurata) 87

Neotropical

River Otter

(Lutra

longicaudis) 4

Black river

turtle

(Rhinoclemmys

funerea) 58


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Figure 6-1 Most commonly recorded species for phase (recorded 75% of days)

50 55 60 65 70

Mantled Howler Monkey

Montezuma Oropendola

Brazillian Long-nosed Bat

Green Basilisk

Olive-backed Euphonia

White-collared Manakin

Green Iguana

Great Kiskadee

Purple-throated Fruitcrow

Clay-colored Robin

Strawberry Poison Dart Frog

Yellow-headed Gecko

Central American Whiptail

Chestnut-mandibled Toucan

Black Vulture

Species

Total number of records

Table 6-3 Special Interest sightings for phase

Species Number of records

American Coot (Fulica americana)1

American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus)1

Central American Coral Snake (Micrurus alleni)1

Red-eyed tree frog (Agalychnis callidryas)1

Spectacled Owl (Pulsatrix perspicillataI)1

Figure 6-2 Photos of EBCP incidentals

Olive-backed euphonia and young, white tent-bat, green iguana and brown vine-snake


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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)

one27 25.6 24.7 90.2 105.4 27

two6 26.0 24.1 82.9 101.9 6

three18 25.3 25.1 88.7 105.6 18

four27 25.7 22.9 88.5 122.8 27

five20 26.1 24.1 87.0 118.3 20

six10 26.1 24.3 86.8 110.7 10

seven15 25.4 24.0 87.5 102.7 15

eight2 27.8 24.2 84.7 98.0 2

nine9 25.6 24.4 86.8 97.1 9

ten9 28.4 23.0 88.5 92.2 9

Table 7-2 Monthly environmental averages for year

Month Rainfall (mm)Max Temp

(6PM)Min Temp

(6AM) Average Humidity (%)Average Canal Depth

(cm)

Jan 6.3 28.6 22.5 82.1 110.4

Feb 3.8 28.8 22.6 83.4 87.2

March 3.2 30 23 79.8 89.1

Apr 4.8 30.1 24.3 82.5 93.2

May 3.5 30 24.5 83.4 90

Jun 23.2 26.7 24.6 78.0 106.1

July 13.3 25.6 24.4 84.3 104.8

Aug 17.3 25.8 24.4 84.3 104.4

Sept

Oct

Nov

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


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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

8.1 Results

Table 8-2 General Canal boat impact data for phase

Number of surveys this phase 8

Average number of boats per day for the phase43

Average number of passengers per tourist boat for phase12

Average number of passengers per private boat for phase5

Average number of people per day43

Most commonly recorded tourist boat for phaseFlutterby

Most commonly recorded private boat for phaseLuisa

Most commonly recorded lodge for phaseTurtle Beach Lodge


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Table 8-3 Average canal usage for phase by ACTo time restriction

Av Number of boats 06:00 08:00 11






Total number of boats for the phase 344

Table 8-4 Activity by usage type

Total number of tourist boats 252

Total number of non-tourist boats92

Total number of passengers in tourist boats2949

Total number of passengers in non-tourist boats476

Percentage of boats using 4s engines12


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Figure 8-1 Percentage canal usage tourist vs. non-tourist

Tourist

Public

Figure 8-2 Breakdown of canal usage by Tourist Lodge

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Cano Palma

Don Edgars

Evergreen Lodge

Jungle Tom

Lagana Lodge

Mawamba Lodge

Pachira Lodge

Private

Samoa

Turtle Beach Lodge

Tortuga Lodge

Tours

Public Taxi

Verde Laguan

Blank

Lodge

Number of records


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Figure 8-3 Total number of boat by time for phase

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

06:00 -

08:00

08:00 -

10:00

10:00 -

12:00

12:00 -

14:00

14:00 -

16:00

16:00 -

18:00

Time of Day

NumberofBoats

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 alocal 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 residentsof 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.

9.1 Summary

This phase saw the arrival of two GVI Costa Rica Community Interns, Vivian

Schoereder and Daniel Macedo, together with an MSc student, Sami Abdelmalik, a

COTERC Intern whose focus is Environmental Education.


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The beginning of phase saw very little community contact due to lack of personnel

and resources, but after the arrival of the interns, classes were quickly re-

established. Nine basic English classes were conducted with adults and separately

with the children to assess the levels of classes required and interest. These classes

averaged eight children and between eight and twenty adults. As Vivian and Daniel

establish themselves within the community it is hoped they can design and plan a

syllabus of lessons specifically appropriate to the community in San Francisco. To

this end, we were also lucky enough to have input from Helene Moise, an ESL

teacher from Canada, who visited the station and brought many teaching resources

and ideas to aid the new interns.

We also completed six Intercambio lessons at the Evergreen Lodge Canopy Tour,

with between four and eleven participants.

Two Community Events were held as usual; the first focused on litter and recycling,

the second event followed on from this with a theme of composting, in preparation for

a proposed school garden

Towards the end of phase, Vivian and Daniel moved into the schoolhouse in San

Francisco, since which time they have been invited to attend school council meeting

and participate in several community activities, forging a tremendously positiverelationship between the biological station and the local community.


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10 Activities and Final Summary

As we end an incredibly successful and active phase we have the chance to look

back over the last three months, which included: football and BBQs with the CCC;

our support and involvement in two fundraising and awareness festivals one in

Tortuguero (Tortu-fest) and the other raising money for the school in San Francisco;

a trip out to sea to observe mating marine turtles; helping to transfer an injured

howler monkey to a rehabilitation centre in San Jos and with Rebecas return from

maternity leave, an invitation to judge posters at a national marine turtle symposium.

Find out more details from these and others at www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com .

Throughout the phase, we continued to support the Weaving for

Nature project from Widecast, raising over $200. 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
http://www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/http://latinamericanseaturtles.org/blog/?p=14http://www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/weaving-for-nature.htmlhttp://www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/2008/09/weaving-for-nature.htmlhttp://latinamericanseaturtles.org/blog/?p=14http://www.gvicostarica.blogspot.com/


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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/

Phase 13 083 Science Report Final

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Transcript of Phase 13 083 Science Report Final