The young ecologists embraced the day ready to do science! Everyone had different mornings depending on what group they’re in. Kianna and Zach of the pollinator task force left early to set up cameras at one of the observation sites, while Maya, Nina, and Alex started watching for hummingbirds at the other site. The pollinators had a surprisingly fun time just sitting and watching flowers for birds. They found it peaceful, however others said they looked like old ladies with a yard sale waiting for people to come shop.
The bromeliad teams that include Sophie, Adam, Clay, Porter, and MT finished collecting data and started working in the lab. Sophie Tinley ‘24 said she liked using the “fancy equipment in the lab,” like the leaf area meter. The bromeliad teams further tested their skills on their walkie talkies (they also practiced their airline attendant impressions).
The antlion wranglers consisting of Matt, Keiona, and Caroline, surveyed trails and buildings for antlions and set up basis for study (antlions are predatory insects… I don’t really know, look it up or talk to this group cause they’re the experts). Caroline Gaskin ‘24 says “It was crazy[…] it was funny.”
After spending the day on different tasks and timelines, everyone reconvened for a chocolate tour. This was a very hands on experience filled to the brim with history, fun, and chocolate. We had a delicious time trying chocolate at all stages of the process.
Adam Limoges ‘24 comments, “mm mm good.” Kianna Criscuola ‘26 states, “I got chocolate on my shirt.” We also had the opportunity to help in the chocolate making process. If ecology doesn’t work, we can become chocolate makers. Anyone know if Willy Wonka is hiring?
The tour ended with a powerful speech from the guide about ecotourism, conservation, and appreciating nature. Nina Hallberg ‘25 was nearly brought to tears by a story of a hummingbird and the quote, “nature doesn’t show you what you want to see; nature shows you what you deserve to see.”
After dropping too much money in the gift shop, we came back for dinner where MT challenged everyone to some riddles. Voices were raised, brains were hurt, but good times were had. It was a great day that can be easily summed up in a quote by Professor Cardelús, “esso!”
Till we meet again,
The dawgs with a blog (Nina, MT, and Kianna)