Lectures, Bush Walks, Habitat Assessments, Oh My!

Date Written: 7/31

Over the past couple of days we have had extremely informative lectures. I have learned more in the past week than I thought I would've learned in the whole month that I'm here. We've had lectures on every possible of animal and vegetative related topic in Africa. This ranges from carnivores, herbivores, trees, and poisonous and venomous species of snakes spiders, and scorpions. It is extremely important to learn about the behavior, diet, and social structure of the animals that are in the area. If you ever encounter one in the bush without the defense of the safety officer (guy with the gun), then you'll need to know what to do.

(Gavin, one of the safety officers)

We have also started habitat assessments today. It is one of the first sets of research us as research assistants are participating in. We measure the grazing level grass, trees, and other vegetation, along with any other (fungi/fire) damage they may have accumulated. The areas are 10x10 meter squares, and there are 10 random squares within a 1 hectare area that are assessed, to keep the scientific data accurate.

These ecological surveys are done to see if new conservation management practices should be implemented. During our walks out in the bush the guides taught us about the land and animals as well.

(Baby giraffe that followed our group while on a bush walk)

I have taken in so much, I hope I continue to learn more!

- Erin