Neck Deep

The clock struck seven and all volunteers were ready for a great night adventure. The troops geared up in their long trousers and high boots and soon disappeared off into the night. With head torches lighting their paths they made their way deep into the rainforest with expectations high for their first stream walk. In the beginning the explorers were nervous, merely dipping their boots into the ominous shallows. Caution was taken in every step as they wandered down the winding stream, searching the banks for night creatures. They came across the usual froggie suspects, Osteocephalus cabreri and Pristimantis malkini, as well as an unexpected visit form the cow bellied petersi.

Before the night was through, all volunteers had the chance to master the art of froggie catching. Keen eyes also spotted a few mammals including Opossum and Aquatic Rat (Anotomys leander), scurrying along the streams’ edges. One observant volunteer caught a glimpse of a small water snake, slithering gracefully along the stream. As the night came to a close, all the intrepid volunteers found themselves up to their necks in dark murky water, conquering any previous fears they may have had at the start of the night. Soaking wet, the troops returned to base camp for a cold shower and hot cup of tea after a satisfying walk through the stream before tucking themselves up in their mosquito nets to drift off to the lulling sounds of the jungle.

Jill Robinson - GVI Amazon Scholar Jan-Feb 2010

Neck Deep