Life Changing Experience

Before taking part in this expedition, I had no experience living and working in a tropical setting where the native language was not English. Leading up to my departure for Peru the staff at OpWall were very helpful in informative in making sure that I would be set for the expedition. The atmosphere on site was relaxed and open, staff, university students and high school students interacting throughout the day, forming new friendships and learning about each others experiences and interests. The first time that I stepped off of one of the small auxiliary boats and into the jungle was truly exciting as the feeling of actually being in a remote region surrounded only by the natural environment was a thrill! As a research assistant staying for 4 weeks the first 2 weeks provided us with the opportunity to try all of the studies on site. For the last 2 weeks we were then able to focus our attention on the studies that were of more interest to us, this allowed me to take part in more of the mist netting surveys of understory birds. By the end of my time there it was sad to have to leave and would love to return the next time the opportunity presents itself!