It´s coming up to the end of my expedition and from all the walks and surveys I have experienced, mist-netting has been the one which stands out the most. Mist-netting is where a group of 5-6 people walk out to the forest to catch birds in large nets. Even though you have to wait every 30 minutes to check the nets its definitely worth it as you usually always catch a bird from one of the four nets. Once you have caught the bird, you then find out it´s features which included the weight, height, age, sex etc . All this data then helps the yachana reserve keep it´s protected status.

From the two mist-netting surveys I have experienced, the best bird I have seen and caught is the white ant plumed bird, this was very rewarding as I got too see my favorite bird right up close and discovered all its feature and colour. Despite the two very early mornings that Ive only just got the hang of, mist-netting has made me a lot more interested in birds, and has been an enjoyable part of my gap year.

Rachel Sillars, GVI Amazon volunteer, April-May 2011