Students study ecology in Costa Rica

Have you ever seen the glowing, orange eyes of Caiman crocodiles wading in a rainforest lagoon while hiking at night? Surprisingly, 14 of our Nerinx students and faculty can now make that claim after returning from a trip to Costa Rica where they studied ecology and learned more about conservation efforts in coordination with Ecology Project International (EPI). 

During the trip, participants toured two biological reserves — the Tirimbina Biological Reserve and the Pacuare Reserve — both of which help protect biodiversity through education, research and ecotourism. 

"While we were there, we saw wildlife including Capuchin monkeys and babies, spider monkeys, and Howler Monkeys, Agami Heron, Caiman crocodiles, toucans, iguanas, and plenty of insects," said science teacher Dr. Kari Chambers. "We also tested water quality in a creek and searched for macroinvertebrates. Afterward, we had time to wade, splash, swim, and be silly in the creek."

While at the Pacuare Reserve, students had the chance to work side-by-side with research assistants to collect data on nesting leatherback turtles — a project that was conducted at night while wearing dark clothing so as not to disturb their natural habitat.

While the trip included a great deal of education, students also had plenty of time to explore and play. Highlights included trying fruits, snacks, and candies at a roadside open air market, seeing a sloth and large iguana while white water rafting the Chilamate River, spending time together without the disturbance of electronics, and much more!

In summary, Sofie Robinson '24 noted, "The trip  allowed me to get to know some of my classmates better through group games and activities. I learned a lot about conservation and the many dangers that Leatherback Sea turtles face. I have also become more familiar with how to research wildlife. From this trip, I feel more aware of and responsible for my impact on the environment, especially how it affects sea life." 

Scroll down to see more photos from the trip, courtesy of Ava Carson '24.