Costa Rica's Monkeys

  Costa Rica

• San Jose: 
San Jose
• Central Pacific Coast: 
Puntarenas

Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 1-2 weeks
Dates: 2007: Nov 14 - Nov 27, Nov 28 - Dec 11. 2008: Jun 20 - Jun 29 (teen), Jul 1 - Jul 10 (teen). 2009: Jan - Dec

Description: Research Mission
Help find out how monkeys are adapting to human disturbance in tropical forests.

Situation Report
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Curú, Puntarenas, Costa Rica -- About 40 million years ago, some early primates migrated to North America and started down an evolutionary path a bit different from their African and Asian counterparts. Known as New World monkeys, these primates evolved long prehensile tails that they use for grasping tree limbs. Today, these lively and vocal forest dwellers are in trouble, as human populations encroach on their habitat and degrade the environment. To understand how Costa Rica's monkeys are adapting to these changes, researchers Tracie McKinney and Dr. Scott McGraw are collecting information on the behaviors of white-faced capuchin and mantled howler monkeys in both disturbed and undisturbed habitats. These data will help support conservation efforts.

Meals and Accommodations
Volunteers will share rustic cabins with shared rooms and cold running water at the research site, which is close to the beach, dining/administration area, and within three kilometers of study monkey troops. Filling meals of traditional Costa Rican fare, including fresh fruits, breads, fish or meat, and black beans and rice are prepared for you, and volunteers chip in for clean-up. There is generator-supplied electricity in the main building, but not in the cabins, so be prepared for reading and showering by candlelight.

Highlights: You will spend your days following troops of either capuchin or howler monkeys for five-hour stretches, spending two or three days with each troop. Using a simple data sheet that identifies 18 or so different monkey behaviors, you will record the activities of your assigned individual monkey. You will also use a handheld GPS device to record daily ranges for your troop. Capuchins are known for their intelligence, and howlers for their vocalizations, so be ready for some thoughtful and noisy adventures! You should also have a high tolerance for dirt, insects, rain, and long walks. As part of the expedition, researchers plan a day in the nearby town of Paquera for email catch-up, relaxation, and a chance to enjoy the beach, as well as an overnight trip to Montezuma or other locations for sightseeing.

Qualifications: Earthwatch volunteers are enthusiastic to learn about the research topic and are willing to contribute their time and energy to support leading scientists in conducting field research. Volunteers will be trained upon arrival at the research site. Teams have a minimum age of 18, unless accompanied by parent or legal guardian, in which case the minimum age is 16.

Cost in US$: $2549

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Earthwatch expeditions appeal to a variety of people: educators gain new knowledge and develop exciting lesson plans; students explore career options and build research skills; writers, photographers and artists contribute their skills and share their experiences through a variety of media; businessmen and women, doctors and nurses, engineers, homemakers, retirees . . . people from all walks of life choose to volunteer on research expeditions each year. Volunteers are actively engaged on a daily basis with the research project, develop global perspectives, and explore new cultures and environments.

Age Range: 16-90

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Costa Rica Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of 6-12

Scholarships are Available. - Fellowships may be available, mainly for high-school students and educators. Visit our website for more information.

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Earthwatch Institute's Mission Statement: Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. Through a unique method of funding, the volunteers Share of Cost contributes directly to the support of the research projects. Earthwatch enables scientists to pursue research goals and members of the public to gain hands-on experience with science. Each year, over 4,000 people from 46 countries directly contribute to scientific research by working alongside scientists, local community members and other volunteers. Earthwatch volunteers can track sea turtles; join archaeological digs; observe animal behavior; collect rare plants, study dolphin behavior and more. Hundreds of expedition teams can use your help in 48 countries and 16 U.S. states this year.

Year Founded: 1971