T.R.E.E. Field Studies Tropical Research in Ecology & Ethology
Courses
Field Course in Primate Behavior and Ecology
June 5th - July 5th, 2008 Curu National Wildlife Refuge Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
This course is designed to teach undergraduate and graduate students the basic skills necessary to study primate behavior in the wild. Throughout this course you will learn techniques in ecological and behavioral data collection and complete an independent study on one of three primate species native to the area (Ateles geoffroyi, the black handed spider monkey; Cebus capucinus, the white-faced capuchin; Alouatta palliata, the mantled howler monkey).
To encourage cooperation and collaboration with local Costa Rican scholars and students, a Spanish language teacher will be on hand for Spanish lessons during the course. Participation in lessons is expected from all students.
We believe the generosity of the
Costa Rican people should be rewarded for allowing us to work and visit
their country; therefore a portion of the course fee will cover the high school fees of local Costa Rican students. The cost for high school is $150
dollars a year for a student in Costa Rica;
however, many simply cannot afford this rate. Our hope is that this
connection will foster a relationship between the field school and local students, encouraging them to work towards conservation in their
own community. The total cost for the field portion of the course is US$2100. This fee covers all in-country travel, room and board at the station. Two full meals per day are also included. Primate field work requires early mornings, usually before breakfast is served; therefore, it is recommended that students bring portable foods (ex. granola bars) for morning meals in the forest. Airfare is not included in this fee.
The following are important dates for this summer session:
April 5th, 2008 - $200 non-refundable deposit required and health form completed May 1st, 2008 - Proof of travel insurance must be provided May 15th, 2008 - Remaining $1900 must be submitted
