Who Knew Dissertation Research Could Be So Fun!

Having never spent such a long-time this far from home, I really didn’t know what to expect from my trip to Honduras. I am now coming up to the end of my 6 week stay in Cusuco National Park and every single day here has been magical.

I chose this montane cloud forest for its unique and beautiful moths. My MSc dissertation research focuses on how environmental factors effect the diversity and abundance of two moth families found here in the National Park. Despite this, my time here has not only consisted of light trapping but also other surveys and experiences.

Photo by Joe Nunez-Mino

I have taken part in mammal surveys for tracks and signs, herpetofauna night walks where you inspect every leaf near the river in search of glass frog (Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni) eggs and bat surveys with endless chatting while you wait to check the nets. Everyone here is inspiring and you have the opportunity to network and meet scientists from all over the world.

My favourite surveys, apart from the light trapping, were the fungi surveys. I enjoyed searching for cordyceps fungi under leaves, where, if you were diligent, you could find an infected spider corpse with pale blue tendrils sticking out of its body. Despite the variety of surveys I was able to take part in, the light trapping always won my heart. One night a giant silk moth (Arsenura armida) appeared at a light trap and easily became my favourite species seen this trip.

Photo by Marianne Evans

One sunny day we trekked down to Doña Martina’s café where I helped roast coffee beans and tasted the cinnamon and pepper infused coffee. On another day we hiked to Cantiles, a satellite camp at a higher altitude than Base Camp and enjoyed the views whilst being careful not to step on the procession of caterpillars spotted by the beady eyed guide leading the way. Once there and after a long day of hiking I got into my hammock and listened to the loudest thunder I have ever heard whilst knowing I was safe under my tarp.

Photo by Marianne Evans

Every day here I have learnt something new, and I will never forget the connections I have made along the way. Every shower taken in a stream and every campfire chat has been special. From coming here to simply collect data, which I now have plenty of, to leaving with a full heart, I am grateful for every new memory created.

Title photo by Matthew McCabe