2024 Parker School Costa Rica Conservation Expedition

Let us tell you about our last two days at Reserva Playa Tortuga! On our first full day here, the group split into three activities, all working with the biologists here at the reserve. These activities included counting and collecting eggs at the butterfly garden, catching bats, and waking up with the sun for a morning walk along the beach. After a delicious lunch of gallo pinto and fresh tropical fruit, the groups reconvened and began their afternoon excursions. Groups set off to bird watch, monitor the monkeys, and collect the trap cameras located in the trails around the reserve. We were fortunate enough to witness a Mono Titi, which happened to be the first sighting in 15 years at the reserve. On the cams we also saw a mama puma and her two cubs. At night we learned how to spot crocodiles and cayman, and waded in deep jungle waters to catch them. We learned how to properly measure and identify the reptiles, and we all worked to collect the data. Not to worry- we released them at the end. No one is bringing home a crocodile… that we know of. Every night here we have spent some reflective time on the beach during sunset, fully appreciating the beautiful world around us. Before bed, the group has spent time together playing cards and swinging in the hammocks.

Pura Vida and Adios!

– Charlotte, Katie, and Kristin