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8/2/2019 GVI Jalova Expedition Phase Report Report January-March 2011 111
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Global Vision International2011 Report Series No. 001
GVI Costa Rica
Jalova, Parque Nacional Tortuguero
Quarterly Report 111
January March 2011
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GVI Costa Rica (Jalova) Programme Report 111
Submitted in whole toGVI
Submitted in part to
The Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica (MINAE)
Produced by
Richard Phillips Field CoordinatorMartha Clifford Field StaffJoo Gouveia Field StaffEmily Wittman Field StaffSonja Kovacev Field StaffMelissa Errington Intern
Simon Howell Intern
Zahra Mohamedbhai - Intern
And
David Halewood Volunteer Andrew Farrell Volunteer
David White Volunteer Stuart Langer Volunteer
Sarah Alcorn Volunteer Hannah Cooke Volunteer
Lena Gustafsson Volunteer Rachel Clarke Volunteer
Brian Bosche Volunteer Esther Vogel Volunteer
Kristian Refinetti Volunteer Sam Wilson Volunteer
Leyre Villota Nieva Volunteer Neil Clark Volunteer
Pieter Vlaeminck Volunteer Steve Wieczorek VolunteerFrida Lind Volunteer Stephan Mitchell Volunteer
Sally Parker Volunteer Mark Claxton Volunteer
Richard Kightley Volunteer Richard Copley Volunteer
Zeljka Fistrek Volunteer Ruth Hackney Volunteer
Edited byStephen Meyer Country Director
GVI Costa Rica (Jalova)
Email:[email protected] Web page:http://www.gvi.co.ukandhttp://www.gviusa.com
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.gvi.co.uk/http://www.gvi.co.uk/http://www.gvi.co.uk/http://www.gviusa.com/http://www.gviusa.com/http://www.gviusa.com/http://www.gviusa.com/http://www.gvi.co.uk/mailto:[email protected]8/2/2019 GVI Jalova Expedition Phase Report Report January-March 2011 111
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GVI Jalova, Parque Nacional Tortuguero, January - March 2011 i
Executive SummaryThe fifth 10-week phase of the Costa Rican GVI Jalova Programme has now been
completed. The programme has continued to work towards the gathering of important
environmental scientific data whilst working with local, national and international partners.The following projects have been run during Phase 111:
Canal Bird Population Study in collaboration with the Costa Rica Ministry of
Environment and Energy (MINAE).
Jaguar Camera Trapping in Tortuguero National Park (TNP) in collaboration with
MINAE.
Jaguar Predation on Marine Turtles in collaboration with MINAE.
Jaguar Track Census in collaboration with MINAE.
Mammal Monitoring Project in collaboration with MINAE.
Incidental Species and Diversity Assessment with MINAE.
Biodiversity Assessment Project with MINAE.
Beach Profiling in collaboration with MINAE.
Great Green Macaw Project in collaboration with the Great Green Macaw Research
and Conservation Project.
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary ............................................................................................................. iTable of Contents ................................................................................................................ ii
List of Figures .................................................................................................................... iii
List of Tables ..................................................................................................................... iv1. Introduction ................................................................................................................ 52. Canal Bird Population Study ..................................................................................... 6
2.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................... 62.2 Aim ................................................................................................................. 72.3 Methodology ................................................................................................... 72.4 Results ............................................................................................................. 72.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 11
3. Jaguar Camera Trapping Project .............................................................................. 14
3.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................ 143.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 14
3.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 153.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 153.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 22
4. Jaguar Track Census ................................................................................................ 234.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................ 234.2 Aims .............................................................................................................. 234.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 244.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 254.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 274.6 Conclusion .................................................................................................... 28
5. Jaguar Predation of Marine Turtles .......................................................................... 29
5.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 295.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 305.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 30
5.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 305.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 31
6. Mammal Diversity ................................................................................................... 32
6.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 326.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 326.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 326.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 326.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 35
7. Incidental Species Study .......................................................................................... 377.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 377.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 377.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 377.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 38
7.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 438. Biodiversity Assessment Project .............................................................................. 45
8.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 45
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8.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 458.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 458.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 488.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 50
9. Beach Profile ............................................................................................................ 51
9.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 519.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 51
9.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 519.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 519.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 53
10. Great Green Macaw ................................................................................................. 5410.1 Introduction ................................................................................................... 5410.2 Aim ............................................................................................................... 5410.3 Methodology ................................................................................................. 5410.4 Results ........................................................................................................... 5510.5 Discussion ..................................................................................................... 55
11.
References ................................................................................................................ 56
12. Appendices ............................................................................................................... 58Appendix A. Canal Bird Population Study Methodology ....................................... 58Appendix B: List of Study Bird Species .................................................................. 61
Appendix C: Jaguar Camera Trapping Project ........................................................ 62Appendix D: Jaguar Predation of Marine Turtles Study Methodology ................... 65Appendix E: Mammal Diversity Project .................................................................. 69
Appendix F: Incidental Study Species Methodology .............................................. 70Appendix G: Species List for the Jalova Area ......................................................... 73Appendix H: Beach Profile Methodology ............................................................... 84
Appendix I: Great Green Macaw Methodology ...................................................... 85
List of Figures
Figure 4-1 Jaguar Activity Miles 15 - 18 ................................................................ 26Figure 4-2 Jaguar Activity Miles 13 - 15 ................................................................ 26Figure 4-3 Number of Entry/Exit Points per 1/8th Mile ........................................... 27Figure 4-4 Relationship of Stride/Straddle of Pugmark Sets ................................. 27Figure 5-1 Jaguar Presence by Mile ................................................................. 31Figure 9-1 Profile of Beach Section 1 at Start and End of Phase .......................... 52
Figure 9-2 Profile of Beach Section 4 at Start and End of Phase .......................... 52Figure 9-3 Profile of Beach Section 7 at Start and End of Phase .......................... 52Figure 9-4 Profile of Beach Section 10 at Start and End of Phase ........................ 53
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List of Tables
Table 2-1 Overall Phase Data for Canal Bird Study ................................................ 7Table 2-2 Species Presence/Absence by Canal ..................................................... 8
Table 2-3 Species Survey Presence Percentage by Canal ..................................... 9Table 2-4 Min/Max Number of Each Species Recorded Per Canal ....................... 10Table 3-1 Camera Trap Site Results ..................................................................... 15Table 5-1 Summary of Phase 111 Surveys ........................................................... 30Table 6-1 Phase 111 Mammal Tracks and Visual Sightings ................................. 33Table 6-2 Distribution of Records along Transect by Species ............................... 34Table 7-1 Records for Phase 111 ......................................................................... 38Table 7-2 Overall Top 10 Species......................................................................... 38Table 7-3 Top Species Records by Zone .............................................................. 39Table 7-4 Top Records by Class........................................................................... 42Table 8-1 Survey and Record Numbers by Transect ............................................ 48
Table 8-2 Top Species by Transect ...................................................................... 48Table 10-1 Great Green Macaw Sightings in Phase 111 ...................................... 55
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1. IntroductionThe Coastal Rainforest Conservation Programme at the Jalova Biological Station in
Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica has now completed its fifth phase (five x 10 weeks).
Since its initiation the programme has collected a considerable amount of scientific data
for all its projects. This data has been submitted to the partner organisations and will go
towards planning future research areas and meeting current project aims.
Since the previous report some of the projects have undergone some methodological
changes. These have been under the guidance of the partners, in order to meet their
specific goals. Details of this have been included in the relevant project section.
Also, new to this phase is the collection of Jaguar track data. This methodology saw a trial
in phase 111 (January-March 2011) following research into techniques to better estimate
the population of Jaguars using the coast habitat around base. See that section for early
results from this new survey.
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2. Canal Bird Population Study
2.1 Introduction
Mesoamerica is a very important hotspot for biological diversity (Myers et. al., 2000). With
over 830 species of avifauna alone, Costa Rica is a very rich country for nature (Stiles &
Skutch, 1989). One of the reasons for this richness is the array of habitats available in
such a small space. These include two very different coastlines, highland and lowland
forests, forest swamps, marshes, rivers, lagoons, and subalpine pramos (Stiles & Skutch,
1989). The aquatic environment is of major importance to the tourism industry and ecology
of the Tortuguero area. This habitat is being increasingly utilized as tourism in the
Tortuguero area is increasing. It is expected that this use will, in time, have an impact on
the avian population it supports.
Growing concerns about the status of birds in the rainforests of Costa Rica have lead to
the establishment of long-term monitoring programmes. The nature of Costa Ricas birdlife
has meant that it has been a popular location to study behaviour and diversity for many
years. Much of this focus is directed towards migratory birds, neglecting research on
resident species. The Canal Bird Monitoring Programme was established to help fill this
gap. The project was initially set up to quantify diversity and abundance of the species that
live and breed in the area of Caribbean Lowland Rainforest around Estacin Biolgica
Cao Palma (EBCP), 7km North of Tortuguero National Park. It now operates along thesouthern edge of Tortuguero National Park in the vicinity of Jalova (24km South of
Tortuguero).
The EBCP Resident Bird Project monitoring survey began in July 2005, developing in
recent years into the current incarnation, which is still ongoing. Further collection of data is
important in order to establish reliable population trends for local bird species. In 2010 it
was necessary to relocate the survey to the current location due to the demands of the
GVI Costa Rica expedition.
The GVI protocol is modified from the original protocol created by Steven Furino of
Waterloo University, Canada. Modifications to the protocol were made so that data
collectors with minimal field experience are able to collect high quality data. This has
involved reducing the number of species and study areas as well as limiting the amount of
technical data collected on species.
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2.2 Aim
This research programme intends to collect data that will help researchers examine long-
term changes in specific bird populations. The specific aims of the project are 1) to identify
study species use of the study areas, 2) monitor long-term changes in use of these areas,
and 3) to aid in the collection of both resident and migratory avian population data sets forwider public use.
2.3 Methodology
After consultation with MINAE at the end of 2010, changes were made to the survey sites.
No changes have been made to the actual methodology other than those previously
documented in phase reports of 2010.
After meeting with MINAE in December 2010 at the GVI Field Station, it became apparent
that there was the need to add a further study site to our list. This is in order to fully survey
the canals at the Southern end of TNP and to assess the need for further protection from
the National Park and Rangers. Adding a survey section between Sierpe Viejo and Sirena
allows for the full park boundary to be surveyed and for us to assess this critical section of
waterway.
For a complete description of the methodology used, please see Appendix A.
2.4 ResultsTable 2-1 shows the general statistics for the project in terms of numbers of surveys
conducted and overall number of species seen in each canal.
Table 2-1 Overall Phase Data for Canal Bird Study
Canal # of Surveys # of Species # of RecordsCalifornia 6 19 421
Sierpe Viejo 8 20 367Sirena 7 15 73Central 8 14 135
Table 2-2 shows a breakdown of which species were recorded in each canal and also in
the local area during Phase 111.
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Table 2-2 Species Presence/Absence by Canal
Species California Central SierpeViejo
Sirena Overall
Agami Heron N N Y N Y
Amazon Kingfisher Y Y N Y Y
American Pygmy Kingfisher N Y Y Y YAnhinga Y Y Y N Y
Bare-throated Tiger-heron Y Y Y Y Y
Belted Kingfisher Y N N Y Y
Boat-Billed Heron Y N Y Y Y
Cattle Egret Y N Y N Y
Gray-necked Wood-rail Y N Y Y Y
Great Blue Heron Y N N N Y
Great Egret Y Y Y Y Y
Green Heron Y Y Y Y Y
Green Ibis Y Y Y Y YGreen Kingfisher Y Y Y Y Y
Green-and-rufous Kingfisher N N N Y Y
Limpkin N N N N N
Least Bittern N N N N N
Little Blue Heron Y Y Y Y Y
Neotropical Cormorant N N N N N
Northern Jacana Y Y Y N Y
Purple gallinule N N Y N Y
Reddish Egret N N N N N
Ringed Kingfisher Y Y Y Y YRufescent Tiger-Heron N N N Y Y
Snowy Egret Y N Y N Y
Sunbittern N N N N N
Sungrebe Y Y Y N Y
Tricoloured Heron Y N Y N Y
White-throated Crake N Y Y Y Y
Yellow-crowned Night-heron Y Y Y N Y
Table 2-3 shows the percentage of surveys in which a given species was seen on each
canal. This gives an idea of the frequency of sightings of each species in a given area.
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Table 2-3 Species Survey Presence Percentage by Canal
Species California Central SierpeViejo
Sirena
Agami Heron 0% 0% 13% 0%
Amazon Kingfisher 17% 13% 0% 71%
American Pygmy Kingfisher 0% 13% 38% 43%
Anhinga 100% 50% 100% 0%
Bare-throated Tiger-heron 67% 75% 75% 29%
Belted Kingfisher 33% 0% 0% 14%
Boat-Billed Heron 17% 0% 100% 14%
Cattle Egret 67% 0% 25% 0%
Gray-necked Wood-rail 33% 0% 13% 71%
Great Blue Heron 33% 0% 0% 0%
Great Egret 83% 13% 13% 14%
Green Heron 100% 88% 100% 86%
Green Ibis 17% 13% 13% 14%Green Kingfisher 67% 50% 63% 29%
Green-and-rufous Kingfisher 0% 0% 0% 14%
Little Blue Heron 100% 100% 100% 100%
Northern Jacana 100% 100% 100% 0%
Purple gallinule 0% 0% 25% 0%
Ringed Kingfisher 67% 13% 13% 86%
Rufescent Tiger-Heron 0% 0% 0% 14%
Snowy Egret 83% 0% 50% 0%
Sungrebe 83% 25% 13% 0%
Tricoloured Heron 100% 0% 25% 0%White-throated Crake 0% 25% 63% 43%
Yellow-crowned Night-heron 17% 25% 25% 0%
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2.5 Discussion
There have been a few changes this phase to the Canal Birds Survey. We have begun tosurvey one new canal as per the request of MINAE. This canal, named Central, is located
from the beginning of Sierpe Viejo to the beginning of Sirena, in total it is two kilometres
long. We have also been taking note of boat usage on all four of the canals. This, and the
newly developed survey canal, is meant to provide information regarding the possible
expansion of the Tortuguero National Park. In total the amount of surveys averaged out to
eight.
The number of species recorded per canal varies between the four. Sierpe Viejo had the
highest recorded species (20) with California following closely behind (19). On the flip side
both Sirena (15) and Central (14) had fairly low numbers. There can be many reasons as
to why Sirena and Central had lower species records and it will be looked at later on. With
all of the canals in mind, there is a good distribution of species being recorded. In all only
four species were not recorded in any of the canals, the Limpkin, Reddish Egret, Least
Bittern and Neotropical Cormorant. However, the Neotropical Cormorants were recorded
several times during phase in the local area, so this species does show abundance.
Cao California had the second highest species records with 19 out of a total of 30. This is
a significant jump from the 16 species that were recorded in phase 104. This canal
typically offers a wide variety of the study species, due in part to the diverse ecological
niches that it offers. It is also one of the widest canals and also tends to have a strong
current. A few of the more interesting sightings this phase include the Boat-billed Heron
(Cochlearius cochlearius) and the Grey-necked Wood-rail (Aramides cajanea).
Cao Sierpe Viejo had the highest number of recorded species, 20 out of a possible 30.
Similarly to California the numbers from last phase had increased significantly, from 15 to
20. This canal differs vastly in terms of vegetation to the other three. In the first half it is
fairly open while being surrounded on both sides by thick reed-beds. It is here that we
recorded a high number of Northern Jacanas (Jacana spinosa) and also Little Blue Herons
(Egretta caerulea). Mid-way through the canal survey there is a thick reed-bed that leads
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to a narrow and densely littered canal; there are several logs and fallen palm fronds both
on the edges of the canal and underneath the water. This overgrown section of the canal
is notable for the presence of Agami Herons (Agamia agami), this phase we had one
individual recorded. Boat-billed Herons, which were the highest recorded species on
Sierpe Viejo, at 94 times with four active nests being recorded.
Cao Sirena had 15 recorded species which while it is lower than the other canals is still
an increase to Phase 104 in which only 11 species were recorded. Sirena is the narrowest
canal that we survey and as such possess numerous obstacles for surveying species.
Boats, while not permitted to travel down this canal, have been noted on numerous
occasions. Since the canal is so narrow, the disturbance given by the boats do not help
the lack of species being recorded. An average of five species has been established for
this canal, kingfishers being the most prominent. This phase all six species of kingfishers
have been recorded, even the rare Green and Rufous Kingfisher (Chloroceryle inda),
which was only recorded once. Another important species that was recorded was the
Rufescent Tiger-Heron (Tigrisoma lineatum); two individuals were seen making a nest,
although no eggs or chicks have thus been seen.
Cao Central is a new canal that had the fewest recorded species, 14 out of a possible 30.
Central is actually very comparable to California, however it is half the width and does not
possess the species density. One reason for this could be because of its location.
California is in a prime location to receive migratory bird species such as the Little Blue
Herons (Egretta caerulea) and the Snowy Egrets (Egretta thula) due to its proximity to the
entrances to the sea of the River Jalova and Parismina. Central, although possessing the
same characteristics, is not in a prime location to receive a wide range of migratory
species. Notable species that were recorded include White-throated Crake (Laterallus
albigularis) and Sungrebes (Heliornis fulica).
This phase we have also started noting any boat occurrences on all of the study canals.What we have found is not all that surprising, considering the amount of touristic boats and
locals that use the canals daily. California was the most used canal with nine boat
sightings, the majority of these being either fishing boats or Tortuguero Lodge boats. The
other three canals were used much less, more because of their isolation; Sirena (1),
Central (2) and Sierpe Viejo (3). All of these boats were local and were either transporting
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goods or used for fishing. Cao California is the only canal in which boats are allowed to
pass through; given the narrowness and density of the other canals it can be much more
detrimental to the bird population if there are daily occurrences of local or touristic boats.
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3. Jaguar Camera Trapping Project
3.1 Introduction
The Jaguar is the third largest felid in the world and the largest in all of North and South
America (Silver, 2004). Its range used to span from the South-western United States of
America to Northern Argentina (Seymour, 1989). However, the current known, occupied
range is about 54% of what it was in 1900 (Sanderson et al., 2002), ranging from northern
Mexico to northern Argentina and are considered threatened across much of this range
(Aranda 2000, Sanderson et al., 2002).
Although there has been much research done on turtles in the area, little is known about
the population of Jaguars in TNP. The Tortuguero Conservation Area covers a total area
of 180,925 hectares of which Tortuguero National Park covers a total area of 80,574hectares, including marine territory (Bermudez, Plan de Manejo, 2004).
The National Park guards have seen Jaguars on numerous occasions and have estimated
that there are at least five individuals currently using the beach (Eduardo Chamorro comm.
pers. 2008). GVI has initiated the use of cameras to estimate the population size of
Jaguars in the parks coastal habitat.
Cameras have been used by the Sea Turtle Conservancy in the past with successful
results. A camera trap left with a freshly killed turtle recorded 58 minutes of video of a male
Jaguar feeding on a turtle (Harrison et al. 2005). We will adopt similar methodology and
undertake field trials.
3.2 Aim
The aim of this project is to use camera trapping as a means of estimating the abundance
of Jaguars using the coastal habitat inside TNP and to increase ecological awareness.
The objectives are:
1. to determine the areas where Jaguars are present
2. to record their hours of activity and other habits
3. to compare Jaguar activity at different sites along the beach
4. to identify individual Jaguars by their rosette pattern
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3.3 Methodology
The methodology for this project has not changed since the last phase. Therefore the
methodology can be found in Appendix C.
3.4 Results
A total of 17 Cameras were deployed in the field in a total of 80 trapping days, distributed
throughout 10 sites (including one dead turtle). With a total of 22 outings to place cameras,
4.807 photos were collected, 41 of jaguars. 9 were used to identify 4 different individuals
thus far. With a new set of cameras used we managed also to collect 30 videos with a
compiled 2 minutes of jaguar footage.
Table 3-1 Camera Trap Site Results
Camera Trapping Site #9GPS N 10 22 00.5
GPS W 083 23 57.0
Position (NNMM) 17
Cameras in use #C5 #B1
Date set 12-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 13-Jan-11
Date Removed 13-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 1
New Results
#C5-18 Photos 0-used #B1-137
Photos 6 Photos of Jag 5 used
Action taken Removed
Cameras in use #B2 #B3
Date set 16-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 18-Jan-11
Date Removed 20-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 4
New Results#B2 - 112 Photos 0 - used #B3 32
Photos 0 - used
Action taken Removed
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Cameras in use #B2 #B3
Date set 23-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 31-Jan-11
Date Removed 31-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 9
New Results#B2 121 Photos 0 - used #B3 59
Photos 0 - used
Action taken Removed
Cameras in use #B4 #B5
Date set 2-Feb-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 6-Feb-11Date Removed
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 4
New Results#B4 50 Photos 0-used #B5 100
Photos 0-used
Action taken Batteries and SD cards replaced
Dates checked 16-Feb-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 10
New Results#B4 159 Pics 0-used #B5 0 Pics-
cam not working
Action takenBat replaced + SD cards replaced +
Cam B5 removed
Cameras in use #B4 #C3
Date set 20-Feb-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 27-Feb-11Camera B5 replaced by
cam C3 1-Mar-11
Date Removed
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 7
New Results#B4 176 Pics 0-used #C3 0 Pics-
cam not working
Action taken Bat replaced + SD cards replaced
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Camera Trapping Site #10GPS N 10 21 57.9
GPS W 083 23 53.4
Position (NNMM) 17
Cameras in use #B1 #B4
Date set 16-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 18-Jan-11
Date Removed 20-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 4
New Results#B1 147 Photos 0-used #B4 60
Photos 0-used
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
Camera Trapping Site #11GPS N 10 22 46.8
GPS W 083 24 27.2
Position (NNMM) 16
Cameras in use #C1 #C5
Date set 23-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 25-Jan-11
Date Removed 31-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 8
New ResultsCam #C1 410 Photos - none used
Cam #C5 32 Photos - none used
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
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Camera Trapping Site #12GPS N 10 22 29.8
GPS W 083 24 14.9
Position (NNMM) 16 3/8
Cameras in use #B1 #B4
Date set 23-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked
Date Removed 25-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 2
New Results#B1 409 Photos - 0 used#B4 91 Photos - 0 used
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
Camera Trapping Site #13GPS N 10 22 33.3
GPS W 083 24 17.4
Position (NNMM) 16 1/4
Cameras in use #B1 #B4
Date set 25-Jan-11
Bait/Lure N
Date Removed 31-Jan-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 6
New Results#B1 1226 Photos - 0 used
#B4 47 Photos - 0 used
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
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Camera Trapping Site #14GPS N 10 22 34.8
GPS W 083 24 18.7
Position (NNMM) 16 1/4
Cameras in use #B3
Date set 2-Feb-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 6-Feb-11
Date Removed 6-Feb-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 4
New Results #B3 91 Photos 0-used
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
Camera Trapping Site #15GPS N 10 22 46.2
GPS W 083 24 28.4
Position (NNMM) 16
Cameras in use #B1 #B3
Date set 9-Feb-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 16-Feb-11
Date Removed 16-Feb-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 7
New Results#B3 118 Photos 0-used#B1 201 Photos 0-used
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
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Camera Trapping Site #16GPS N 10 23 26.8
GPS W 083 25 05.3
Position (NNMM) Mile 15 Mammal Transect
Cameras in use #B1 #B3
Date set 16-Feb-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 22-Feb-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 6
New ResultsB1 104 Photos 0 used , B3 127
Photos 0 used
Action takenReplaced batteries and memory
cards
Site left in place (Y/N) Y
Dates checked 9-Mar-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 16
New Results B1-41 pics 0 used; B3-48 pics 0 used
Action takenReplaced batteries and memory
cards
Cameras in use #B1 #B3
Date set 9-Mar-11Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 15-Mar-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 7
New ResultsB1-72 pics 0 used;B3-110 pics 0 used
Action taken Site removed
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Camera Trapping Site #17GPS N 10 22 35.4
GPS W 083 24 19.4
Position (NNMM) 16.25
Cameras in use#C1 #C5and #B2
Date set 23-Feb-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked
Date Removed 24-Feb-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) Y
Number of trapping nights 1
New Results
Three cameras set,#C1 150 Photos, 4 used.
#C5 0 Photos 0 used#B2 34 Videos 30 used.
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
Camera Trapping Site #18GPS N 10 22 34.8
GPS W 083 24 18.6
Position (NNMM) Kingfisher trail
Cameras in use #B2 and #C5
Date set 1-Mar-11
Bait/Lure N
Dates checked 7-Mar-11
Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) N
Number of trapping nights 7
New Results B2 630 pics - 0 used C5 - 0 pics
Action taken Removed
Site left in place (Y/N) N
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3.5 Discussion
Phase 111 was very important to the Jaguar Camera Trapping project. Using brand new
cameras we obtained a few unexpected photos that could help us identify more jaguars
using the Jalova region of the National Park. With combined efforts from two projects
Camera trapping and Jaguar track survey we were able to produce some compelling
data that showed us an early estimate of the population present in this area. So far with
the photos captured and analysed by their rosettes we discovered that there are 4 different
jaguars in Jalova.
We have confirmed presence and usage of our main trails even with heavy human impact
on some of them. A common trail like North Trail (Sendero Jaguar) used by surveys like
Biodiversity Assessment or Mammals twice a day, still produced images of jaguars.
Photos taken on the beach confirm the almost daily usage of the beach area. We also
have evidence of jaguars walking the newly maintained trails. Further analyses and
camera trapping will be necessary to extend and confirm the closed population in Jalova,
South TNP and their range.
The usage of lures/bait this phase did not occur but is still being discussed because of the
great potential that they might bring to the identification of each individual. As shown in the
results, 41 photos were taken of jaguars but only 9 were used for id purposes. The quality
of the image is being compromised by the movement of the jaguar in front of our camera
traps, making them blurry and impossible to use the rosettes. Applying the lure will call the
attention of the animal passing by and hopefully stop him briefly, yet long enough to get a
better image.
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4. Jaguar Track Census
4.1 Introduction
The jaguar (Panthera onca) is a mystical creature that inhabits the wetlands and low
forest. Areas like the Tortuguero National Park are a perfect setting for this cryptic
mammal. Categorized as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2003) its the
largest felid in the western hemisphere and the third largest felid in the world. Not much is
known about the population of jaguars living and using the coastal area of the TNP. Initial
estimates seem to point to 5 individuals (Eduardo Chamorro comm. pers. 2008) but much
is unknown about the closed or open population of this area. A potential growing
population might be both exciting and dangerous due to the fact of cattle breeders and
communities to the north and also to the south. The jaguars in the TNP are confined to an
area of 80,574 hectares, including marine territory (Bermudez, Plan de Manejo, 2004), so
a growing population might present a risk to nearby communities. In order to formulate a
conservation strategy and protection we need vital population estimates of how many
individuals are present in this area.
From the work of GVI in the Jalova area of TNP, it has become clear that jaguars
frequently use the beach and prey on marine turtles. The sand of the beach provides an
ideal resource to collect samples of pugmarks. Over recent years, techniques have been
developed to identify feline individuals from their tracks (Sharma & Wright 2005) and this
methodology has been adapted to trial the technique for our jaguar population.
4.2 Aims
The survey is conducted in a way to feed the software PUGMARK 1.0, which analyses
digital photographs of the left or right pugmark of the jaguar and also strides and straddles
and a number of variables. It eliminates human error and produces an estimation of the
jaguar population using a statistical approach.
Other objectives are:
1. To collect and take photos of jaguar pugmarks on the beach.
2. To observe Jaguars in their coastal habitat.
3. Learn more about the habits and spatial distribution of the population.
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4.3 Methodology
For the Digital Pugmark technique at least 10 good hind pugmarks (left as well as right)
are required to be photographed from a set of tracks. Similarly 10 measurements of gait
variables, i.e. stride and straddle, must also be recorded from the same pugmark trail.
After arriving at the site and selecting the best pugmarks for digital photography, the teamundertakes the following steps and the results noted on data book:
1. Write ID plate with date (dd/mm/yy) and number of set and number of photo.
2. Put ruler next to back left print on its left side, put the ID plate on top of the print. Use a
monopod at 30cm to take photo, place the monopod under the print.
3. Repeat step 2 for at least 10 pugmarks, ensuring ruler is visible in all photographs.
4. Measure stride the distance between two successive pugmarks on the same side by
placing a steel measuring tape on the base of the pad of the pugmarks.
5. Measure straddle the perpendicular distance between the left and right hind pugmarks- by placing the tape on its edge and pressing it into the soil to make a straight line
between the outer edges of the trail of the hind pugmarks.
6. Measure depth use stick or pencil to measure from the bottom of the print to the point
at the surface where the tape meets the stick.
7. Repeat steps 5 & 6 for successive pugmarks on both sides, to obtain series of stride
and straddle measurements (10 each).
8. Write GPS location at the beginning of the set, weather, sand condition, nearest
northern mile marker and direction of pugmarks.
We also informally record sightings, calls, scats and kills, especially turtles.
The pugmark dataset and the photographs are then catalogued to the respective pugmark
sets on a daily basis for analysis.
On the same survey we also collect entry and exit points of any jaguars onto and off the
beach. Using a GPS we record the location and the nearest northern mile marker. This
procedure allows us to understand if there is a preferred area or access to the beach area.We then give this information to the parallel project Jaguar Camera Trapping, so they can
set sites on common access areas.
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Figure 4-1 Jaguar Activity Miles 15 - 18
Figure 4-2 Jaguar Activity Miles 13 - 15
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Figure 4-3 Number of Entry/Exit Points per 1/8th
Mile
Figure 4-4 Relationship of Stride/Straddle of Pugmark Sets
4.5 Discussion
Figures 4-1 and 4-2 represent the activity of the jaguars present on the beaches of Jalova.
They show us a much higher presence over on miles 16 2/8 to 15 3/8. This information his
being used to place cameras in low usage trails that come from the forest to the beach.
The first chart has a higher number of presences due to the longer period of time that the
data was collected and also frequency of collection. The second chart has lower numbers
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due to the fact that we only survey it every other day and we started it later. Here we can
see that theres higher presence from mile 14 to 13 3/8.
The entry/exit points collected also point to clusters of activity on the same areas of the
beach as shown here in this table. Again, the survey area of 15 17 5/8 was surveyed
more regularly as it would be walked both when we walked to Mile 13 but also to Mile 15.
It is hard to compare the two different areas of the beach due to the different number of
surveys. But it is interesting to note how the jaguar activity is relatively flat across the
section from Miles 13 to 15. This fits with the trend from the other section of the beach
where the activity seems to plateau from Mile 15 7/8 Northwards.
4.6 Conclusion
It takes time to be able to analyze the dataset that we have collected completely.
Therefore we will be taking a break from this data collection during the Leatherback
Season and concentrating our efforts on the turtles. Meanwhile we will be using the
statistical methods necessary to ascertain an estimate of the population and a report will
be released with this information in the coming months.
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5. Jaguar Predation of Marine Turtles
5.1 Introduction
Tortuguero National Park (TNP) is the most important nesting ground in the western
hemisphere for Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas). In addition to the C. mydasthere are also
a significant number of Leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea) and the occasional
Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and Loggerhead (Caretta caretta)(Trong 2000). The
nesting turtle population has been monitored on the parks beach since the 1950s and
continues to be monitored today by the Sea Turtle Conservancy (STC).
Information on Jaguars (Panthera onca) predating on marine turtle is sparse. In TNP and
many other areas, marine turtle predation by Jaguars has been recorded sporadically. 82
C. mydaswere identified as being predated by Jaguars in Suriname from 1963-1973. On
the same beach in 1980 one Jaguar killed 13 turtles within only a few days (Autar, 1994).
On the Pacific coast of Costa Rica Jaguars have been recorded preying upon Olive Ridley
Turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea), Black Turtles (Chelonia agassizii), and E. imbricata.
Although, there has been much research done on turtles in TNP, from 1956 to 1995 there
were only two C. mydas recorded to be killed by a Jaguar, one in 1981 and another in
1984 (Carrillo et al. 1994). Weekly walks on the beach to record the number of dead turtles
killed by Jaguars began in 1997 as part of the STC turtle monitoring programme. The STC
found four dead C. mydas killed by Jaguars in 1997, 25 in 1998, 22 in 1999, and two
Leatherbacks in 1999 (Trong 2000). This predation upon turtles by Jaguars is not a new
phenomenon but seems to have been increasing in the past 10 years within TNP (Trong
2000; Magally Castro, pers. comm.)
Due to a lack of human resources the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment and Energy
(MINAE) invited GVI to continue data collection on Jaguar presence and predation of
marine turtles in TNP. Data collection has now been conducted by GVI since 11 th July
2005. Together with the data previously collected by MINAE, a more comprehensive
understanding of Jaguarimpact on the turtle population of TNP can be developed.
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5.2 Aim
The Jaguar project aims to document the presence of Jaguar on the beach of Tortuguero
National Park and their predation of nesting marine turtles.
5.3 Methodology
The methodology of this project has not changed since the last report. The methodology
can be found in Appendix D.
5.4 Results
Table 5-1 Summary of Phase 111 Surveys
Summary Result
Number of surveys this phase 9
Jaguar sightings 0
Number of full Green Turtle tracks this season 3
Number of full Leatherback Turtle tracks this season 4
Number of newly recorded dead Green Turtles 2
Number of dead turtles this season (Jul Jun) 175
Phase Area of highest turtle activity by mile 4-5
Area of highest jag activity by mile 11-15
Area of highest turtle predation by mile13,16
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Figure 5-1 Jaguar Presence by Mile
5.5 Discussion
During phase 111 two turtle carcasses were recorded on the beach of Tortuguero National
Park. Both carcasses belonged to Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) and were discovered
within two days of predation. One was discovered within hours of its death and the kill site
was used for the GVI camera trapping program. The site produced both photographic and
video evidence of a Jaguar returning to the kill the afternoon after the initial predation.
The area of highest turtle activity was between miles four and five, although because
phase 11 encompassed the off season for the nesting population of turtles using this
beach, this amounted to only three full tracks. The area of highest Jaguar activity was
between miles eleven and fifteen, with presence recoded for all but one survey. The two
carcasses were discovered in areas where Jaguar tracks have often been recorded, but
they do not correlate to the area of highest presence.
In the next phase, when the amount of turtle predation is expected to increase in relation
to the return of the nesting population a more comprehensive report will be completed.
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6. Mammal Diversity
6.1 Introduction
Tortuguero National Park is situated on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, 80km north of
Limon, which is the capital of the province.Many species of mammals are known to reside
within the park. However, data on species diversity and abundance is sparse because
many of these animals are nocturnal and are not often seen by people.
In an effort to better understand mammal usage of the area, GVI has undertaken a survey
to begin categorizing mammal species diversity. This is accomplished through general
visual confirmation while walking the trail, but more importantly, the survey focuses on
track identification. The project began in July of 2010 with the surveying of a 1km long
section of the Juana Lopez Trail. This is a maintained trail which begins on the beach
and continues through the forest until it reaches a canal in the northern section of the park.
6.2 Aim
The research program intends to collect information on mammal species diversity and
usage of the Juana Lopez trail in Tortuguero National Park.
6.3 Methodology
The Methodology for this project remains unchanged to keep phase data comparable over
the year. The methodology can be found in Appendix E.
6.4 Results
During phase 111, a total of 9 Mammal Diversity Surveys were conducted from January
18, 2011 through March 15, 2011. There were 81 records of mammals recorded. Of those,
70 were identified through tracks, and the remaining 11 were confirmed visually during the
surveys. Table 1 provides details of the species recorded and whether or not they were
confirmed through track or visual identification.
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6.5 Discussion
During phase 111, twelve different mammal species were recorded using the Juana Lopez
trail, with the majority of data collected being track records. The Jaguar (Panthera onca)
was the most frequent user of the transect with 36 recorded tracks. All other species
recorded had 13 or fewer records. The most commonly seen mammal was the White-
Throated Capuchin Monkey (Cebus capuchinus). Two new species for the transect were
recorded this phase, the Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) and the Gray
Four Eyed Opossum (Philander opossum).
Of note this phase is the change of the most commonly recorded species. At the end of
last year the Red Brocket Deer was the most frequent record, a change from all previous
phases for which the Jaguar was consistently the most common record. This anomaly is
most likely due to transect conditions. The transect had been continuously flooded in
phase 104 most likely deterring large mammal use and washing away most track records.
The transect returned to normal conditions during phase 111.
The section of the transect with the most recorded activity was the middle section from
meters 200-725, but the records are not consistent. This could be due in part to the
physical condition of the survey area. The initial part of the trail is mostly sandy and dry up
to the point it crosses the north trail, it then becomes fairly dense forest. It continues
though wet muddy areas until it opens out into a small clearing of tall grasses. Beyond this
point the forest has a higher canopy and so becomes more open at ground level. A
stream crosses the transect about half way along. Due to this, the transect can have large
amounts of standing water at several areas along the trail. The water level has been above
the knee in the past, which makes surveying the trail virtually impossible. Such high water
levels would also decrease mammal activity, as they would be using alternate routes of
travel.
While the Mammal Diversity survey has given GVI a better sense of what mammals are
frequenting the Jalova area of Tortuguero National Park, it is by no means a
comprehensive list. Since the trail is prone to flooding, many surveys are not able to be
completed, and track data is easily washed away. Due to this, GVI plans to expand and
modify the project for the 2011 season. We will continue our monitoring efforts through
opening up additional trails in less water logged areas. A new transect has been cleared
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on an old trail in the area around the GVI Jalova Biological Station and monitoring of this
transect will begin in the phase to come.
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Also zone F has been introduced to include all birds seen to fly over but make no use of
any habitat on its flyover. An example of this would be a vulture that passes over base, but
does not actually use the base. This previously would have been included in A, potentially
wrongly and so this change takes account for it.
For a complete description of the methodology used, please see Appendix F.
7.4 Results
Table 7-1 Records for Phase 111
Total Mammals Birds Reptiles Amphibians
# Species Recorded forPhase
158 14 104 27 13
# of New Species forPhase 0 0 0 0 0
The following table lists all the most frequently recorded species in each of the designated
zones of the Incidentals Project.
Table 7-2 Overall Top 10 Species
Species Name Scientific Name % of Days seen
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus 95.59
Four-lined Whiptail Ameiva quadrilineata 79.41
Passerini's Tanager Ramphocelus passerinii 77.94
Blue-gray Tanager Thraupis episcopus 72.06
Clay-coloured Robin Turdus grayi 67.65
Variable Seedeater Sporophila americana 66.18
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl 63.24
Striped Basilisk Basiliscus vittatus 63.24
Groove-billed Ani Crotophaga sulcirostris 61.76
Olive-backed Euphonia Euphonia gouldi 54.41
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Table 7-3 Top Species Records by Zone
Zone A - Base
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus 96 65
Passerini's TanagerRamphoceluspasserinii
78 53
Four-lined Whiptail Ameiva quadrilineata 78 53
Blue-gray Tanager Thraupis episcopus 72 49
Clay-coloured Robin Turdus grayi 66 45
Variable Seedeater Sporophila americana 65 44
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl 63 43
Groove-billed AniCrotophagasulcirostris
62 42
Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum 54 37
Olive-backed Euphonia Euphonia gouldi 53 36
Zone B - Beach
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus 66 33
Common Black-HawkButeogallusanthracinus
32 16
Striped Basilisk Basiliscus vittatus 28 14
Black Vulture Coragyps atratus 20 10
Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia 20 10Sanderling Calidris alba 20 10
Marine Toad Bufo marinus 18 9
Brown PelicanPelecanusoccidentalis
16 8
Willet Tringa semipalmata 16 8
Broad-winged Hawk Buteo platypterus 10 5
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Zone C CoconutPlantation
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seen
Number of Days
SeenMontezuma Oropendola
Psarocoliusmontezuma
89 59
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus 48 32
Variable Seedeater Sporophila americana 29 19
Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tubelculifer 24 16
Striped Basilisk Basiliscus vittatus 23 15
Clay-coloured Robin Turdus grayi 23 15
Passerini's TanagerRamphoceluspasserinii
23 15
Green Iguana Iguana iguana 20 13
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl 17 11Slaty-tailed Trogon Trogon massena 17 11
Zone D Dense Forest
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Central American SpiderMonkey
Ateles geoffroyi 48 25
White-throated Capuchin Cebus capucinus 42 22
Mantled Howler Monkey Allouatta palliata 40 21
Slender Anole Norops limifrons 38 20
Eyelash Palm Pitviper Bothreichis schlegelii 37 19
Central American Whiptail Ameiva festiva 28 15
Western Slaty AntshrikeThamnophilusatrinucha
28 15
Olive Snouted Treefrog Scinax elaeochroa 25 13
White-collared Manakin Manacus candei 21 11
Chestnut-backed Antbird Myrmeciza exsul 19 10
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Zone E - Estuary
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Snowy Egret Egretta thula 44 22
Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea 32 16American Crocodile Crocodylus actus 26 13
Tricoloured Heron Egretta tricolor 22 11
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias 20 10
Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia 18 9
Osprey Pandion haliaetus 14 7
Anhinga Anhinga anhinga 14 7
Black Vulture Coragyps atratus 12 6
Black-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus 10 5
Zone F
Fly over
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis 82 50
Black Vulture Coragyps atratus 59 36
Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens 56 34
Turkey Vulture Cathartes aura 48 29
Montezuma OropendolaPsarocoliusmontezuma
38 23
Osprey Pandion haliaetus 5 3
Willet Tringa semipalmata 3 2
Little Blue Heron Egretta caerulea 3 2
Keel-billed Toucan Ramphastos sulfuratus 3 2
Pale-vented Pigeon Columba cayennensis 2 1
The following table shows the most frequently recorded species by Class.
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Table 7-4 Top Records by Class
Class Aves : Birds
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus 96 65
Passerini's Tanager Ramphocelus passerinii 78 53
Blue-gray Tanager Thraupis episcopus 72 49
Clay-coloured Robin Turdus grayi 68 46
Variable Seedeater Sporophila americana 66 45
Rufous-tailed Hummingbird Amazilia tzacatl 63 43
Groove-billed Ani Crotophaga sulcirostris 62 42
Palm Tanager Thraupis palmarum 54 37
Olive-backed Euphonia Euphonia gouldi 54 37
Montezuma Oropendola Psarocolius montezuma 50 34
Class Reptilia: Reptiles
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Four-lined Whiptail Ameiva quadrilineata 79 54
Striped Basilisk Basiliscus vittatus 63 43
Green Iguana Iguana iguana 50 34
Slender Anole Norops limifrons 41 28
Eyelash Palm Pitviper Bothreichis schlegelii 32 22
Central American Whiptail Ameiva festiva 28 19
American Crocodile Crocodylus actus 19 13Ground Anole Norops humilis 9 6
Green Basilisk Basiliscus plumifrons 7 5
Bronze-Backed Climbing-Skink
Mabuya unimarginata 6 4
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Class Amphibia:Amphibians
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Marine Toad Bufo marinus 46 31
Olive Snouted Treefrog Scinax elaeochroa 19 13
Green Climbing Toad Bufo coniferus 9 6
Smokey Jungle Frog Leptodactylus pentadactylus 9 6
Red-eyed Treefrog Agalychnis callidryas 9 6
Litter Frog sppEleutherodactyluspolyptychus
3 2
Tink Frog Eleutherodactylus diastema 3 2
Reticulated Sheepfrog Gastrophryne pictiventris 1 1
Scarlet-webbed Tree Frog Hyla rufitela 1 1
Wet Forest Toad Bufo melanochlorus 1 1
Class Mammalia: Mammals
Species Name Scientific Name% of Days
seenNumber of Days
Seen
Central American SpiderMonkey
Ateles geoffroyi 41 28
White-throated Capuchin Cebus capucinus 34 23
Mantled Howler Monkey Allouatta palliata 32 22
Common Opossum Didelphis marsupialis 7 5
Hoffmanns Two-toed Sloth Choloepus hoffmanni 7 5
White-lipped Peccary Tayassu pecari 4 3
Central American Agouti Dasyprocta punctata 3 2
White-nosed Coati Nasua narica 3 2
Red Brocket Deer Mazama americana 1 1
Paca Agouti paca 1 1
7.5 Discussion
This phase the Incidentals Project has seen a lot of change in the structure and
organization, compared to last phase, 104, when there were scheduled walks into the
forest. This phase we have initiated Biodiversity Assessment Surveys that have essentially
replaced the majority of forest walks. Accounts are still being taken on the different species
in our area, although they are being recorded on the way to and from surveys and on time
that there are no surveys being conducted.
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Due to this alteration what we have seen is a change in the amount of species being
recorded during phase 111 compared to the previous phases. This is simply because we
are no longer conducting Incidental walks into the forest. The number of species recorded
for this phase is just above half of what we gathered for phase 104. We also need to
realize that this was the first phase in which this change had occurred and therefore we
are guaranteed to see a proportional change in our figures.
This phase there have been a large number of mammals present than any other. White-
lipped Peccarys (Tayassu pecari) have been spotted on the South Trail and the South
Boundary Trail on a number of days. Both the South and North Trails have also had a
number of Tamandua, Hoffmans Two-toed Sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) and Great
Curassow sightings. These species, while not that rare, have only been this frequently
seen in this phase.
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8. Biodiversity Assessment Project
8.1 Introduction
The Biodiversity Assessment Survey is a new survey that was based upon the Incidentals
Species Study. It is a more structured survey that notes recordings of animal species
found in and around the Jalova Biological Station, occupied by GVI, Costa Rica. Data is
collected everyday by scheduled surveys that take part on four trails.
Currently, the study only records mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles as these
groups have excellent publications to enable identification of them. It is currently
impossible to identify invertebrates to a species level with the resources that GVI
possesses, but taking photos of any species seen is to be encouraged particularly with
butterflies and moths, so that a photo library can be maintained with the possible long-termgoal of identifying them all.
8.2 Aim
To collect more information about mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian species
abundance, behaviour and distribution in the local area.
The numbers gathered on the number of sightings will be compared against the different
trails on a yearly basis as well as by phases, which run every ten weeks.
Potential aims are to start collecting data on species abundance by counting individualsseen, and also to collect information on breeding success by recording breeding behaviour
or sightings of young.
8.3 Methodology
8.3.1 Study site
Currently there are four trails that we survey. The North trail begins at mile 17 and extends
to mile 15. This trail is further divided into two survey trails, one goes 17-15 and the other
surveys 17-16. The North Boundary trail and South Boundary trails follow along the edges
of the coconut plantation that surround the base. They are both marked with flagging tape
that designates their start and end points. The South Trail is the final route that follows the
forest to the River Mouth at the River Jalova, the survey then goes through the coconut
plantation until the patch of forest that is known as snake alley, equivalent to mile 17 1/8
on the beach.
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8.3.2 Data collection
The following general information should be taken for all surveys:
Date
Start Time (using 24hr clock)
End Time (using 24hr clock)
Survey Member Names
Weather (taken at end of survey) Clear (less than 25% cloud cover), Cloudy
(25% to 75% cloud cover), Overcast (more than 75% cloud cover). Rain (clarify
with either Intermittent(on and off; showers) or Constant (for the majority of the
survey) and either Light (drizzling; still able to survey) or Heavy (downpour; makes
it difficult or even impossible to survey)
Route (North Trail, North Boundary Trail, South Boundary Trail, South Trail etc.)
8.3.3 Data for each Species
The following data must be taken for each significant sighting:
Species Name
Number seen at one time
Group composition (if possible indicate how many female, male, juveniles are in
each group)
Behaviour see below
Comments additional information that could be of use
Behaviour categories (this information is only taken for groups of Monkeys):
Active (denotes an individual that is awake and active yet does not fit into other
categories),
Resting
Feeding (and on what? Try to identify plants/fruits or prey items),
Foraging (defined as general searching for food)Vocalising
Mating
Comment Categories (Applies to all other species):
Active
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Resting
Feeding
Vocalising
Nest Building (only applicable to birds)
Displaying (this includes White-collared Manakins making their lek displays and
anoles displaying their dewlaps)
KEEPING A TALLY with common species such as lizards like slender anoles or whiptails
and basilisks that do not provide much other information in terms of behaviour or for
singing birds that are not seen (Chestnut-backed Antbird, Bay Wren etc.) a simple tally per
section can be kept to eliminate unnecessary data recording. It is not necessary to record
behaviour or group composition for a tally but make a note of the general behaviour.
8.3.4 Equipment
Every member of the survey must wear long trousers and a long sleeved shirt along with
rubber boots. Communications will be made on either a radio or mobile, depending on how
far the survey is scheduled to go. All participants are required to carry a pair of binoculars.
There will be at least one camera in the group to take pictures of unusual sightings. This
camera should have a good zoom function for pictures of distant animals but there should
also be a camera with a macro function for close-ups of reptiles and amphibians.
One person will also be assigned data-book duties and record all appropriate data with
input from the entire group. They should also carry extra pencils and sharpeners.
At least one person should also carry any relevant field-guides in a drybag, Birds of Costa
Rica (Garrigues, 2007) is suggested. The field guides and Savage can provide details on
what notes to best take to identify species and maybe a summary could be written in the
identification notebook for people to use.
8.3.5 Health and Safety
All standard GVI Health and Safety protocol must be adhered to whilst collecting
Biodiversity Data. Key points are noted below:
At all times:
Always make sure everyone has enough water, and that the first aid kit and
communications are complete and working. Make sure duty staff/camp duty is aware of
your route and intentions.
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In the forest:
Wear wellies, long sleeves and trousers
Look out for snakes, spiders etc. Watch where youre putting your hands when you
move vegetation
Dont leave the trail
At the estuary:
Dont go into the water. There are large crocodiles resident there.
8.4 Results
There were 96 surveys completed in Phase 111. Within these, 1431 records were made.
Table 8-1 Survey and Record Numbers by Transect
Site North Trail 17-15North Trail
17-16North
BoundarySouth Trail
CoconutPlantation
SouthBoundary
Number of Surveys 19 20 20 19 19 18
Number of Records 555 341 104 184 146 101
Table 8-2 Top Species by Transect
North Trail 17-15
Common Name Scientific Name% of
Surveys# of Records
Central American Spider Monkey Ateles geoffroyi 83 83
Eyelash Palm Pitviper Bothreichis schlegelii 80 55
Western Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus atrinucha 56 38
White-throated Capuchin Cebus capucinus 41 28
Mantled Howler Monkey Allouatta palliata 38 25
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North Trail 17-16
Common Name Scientific Name% of
Surveys# of Records
Central American Spider Monkey Ateles geoffroyi 92 47
Slender Anole Norops limifrons 90 46
Eyelash Palm Pitviper Bothreichis schlegelii 75 38
Ground Anole Norops humilis 37 19
Olive Snouted Treefrog Scinax elaeochroa 35 18
North Boundary
Common Name Scientific Name% of
Surveys# of Records
Olive Snouted Treefrog Scinax elaeochroa 42 15
Slender Anole Norops limifrons 28 10
Great Tinamou Tinamus major 25 9
Western Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus atrinucha 19 7
White-capped Manakin Manacus candei 14 5
South Trail
Common Name Scientific Name% of
Surveys# of Records
Slender Anole Norops limifrons 34 16
Chestnut-backed Antbird Myrmeciza exsul 32 15
Western Slaty AntshrikeThamnophilus atrinucha
32 15White-capped Manakin Manacus candei 23 11
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus 23 11
Coconut Plantation
Common Name Scientific Name% of
Surveys# of Records
Montezuma Oropendola Psarocolius montezuma 18 9
Great Kiskadee Pitangus sulphuratus 18 9
Band-backed Wren Campylorhynchus zonatus 16 8
Variable Seedeater Sporophila americana 16 8Black Vulture Coragyps atratus 14 7
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South Boundary
Common Name Scientific Name% of
Surveys# of Records
Central American Spider Monkey Ateles geoffroyi 27 10
Montezuma Oropendola Psarocolius montezuma 24 9Mantled Howler Monkey Allouatta palliata 22 8
Chestnut-backed Antbird Myrmeciza exsul 22 8
Slender Anole Norops limifrons 19 7
8.5 Discussion
This was the first phase in which the Biodiversity Assessment Surveys were conducted.
There were some slight changes that were made to the structure of the surveys in the
beginning of phase, however the methodology remained the same. The results that were
cumulated during this phase cannot be compared to the previous phase, however future
results will be compared and this will also be done per phase.
The first change we have seen since employing the Biodiversity Assessment Survey was
the increase in behavioural and troupe information on the monkeys in our area. The results
gathered gave the most information on the Central American Spider Monkey ( Ateles
geoffroyi) because they were seen much more often than the Mantled Howler Monkey
(Allouatta palliata) or the White-throated Capuchin (Cebus capucinus), although we
gathered significant information about all three. The Central American Spider Monkeys
tend to send out groups of two to five to forage for food from morning to early afternoon.
We have also seen grooming between mother and child and how the dominant males
interact and protect the groups.
During the phase we have also seen many more mammals than we have seen in previous
phases during the forest walks. The species include the White-lipped Peccary (Tayassu
pecari), Northern Tamandua (Tamandua mexicana), Tayra (Eira barbara), Paca (Agouti
paca) and Red Brocket Deer (Mazama americana). A possible reason for all of these
sightings could be attributed to the new structure and group composition of the survey.
More Mammals are being spotted because there are always people looking into the
canopy and the group is meant to remain quiet or have minimal conversation.
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9. Beach Profile
9.1 Introduction
Following a conference hosted by the WWF in Junquillal, Costa Rica, January 2010, GVI
have started to take measurements of the beach directly outside of base. This conference
discussed the implications of global warming on the nesting habits of marine turtles. Many
turtle organisations from Costa Rica were brought together with the aim that they will
assess their own beaches and then share data with each other. As a result of this
conference GVI have started to follow the methodology suggested by WWF to monitor the
beach at Jalova.
9.2 Aim
The aim of this study is to monitor the change in shape of the beach and as a result the
condition of the nesting habitat available for marine turtles. As a result we can theorise
whether climatic conditions are having a detrimental effect on the chances of nesting for
marine turtles.
9.3 Methodology
The methodology for this project has stayed the same since the last phase report.
9.4 Results
Surveys were conducted weekly throughout phase. They had started on the 25 th of
January and ended on the 8 th of March, showing a total of seven surveys in total. The
following is a summary of the changes in profile of the beach.
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Figure 9-1 Profile of Beach Section 1 at Start and End of Phase
Figure 9-2 Profile of Beach Section 4 at Start and End of Phase
Figure 9-3 Profile of Beach Section 7 at Start and End of Phase
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Figure 9-4 Profile of Beach Section 10 at Start and End of Phase
9.5 Discussion
The data for this phase in Beach Profile shows some drastic changes, especially when
comparing beach profile section 1 and beach profile section 10. This data need to be
viewed with caution since this study is long term and any short-term conclusion will be
biased.
It was not turtle season this phase and as such changes in the beach cannot be attributed
to them. It was also rainy season and so we experienced heavy rain with an increase in
high tides and stronger waves. Beach Profile section 1 shows a slight change in elevation,
at the end of phase we saw two sharp ridges that had formed. One was close to the
vegetation line and the other was just above the high tide line.
With the graphs the difference in various parts of the beach is visible. Beach Profile
section 1 and 4 show a slight or even steady change in the beach. However, further down
the beach much stronger waves can be seen having a much more drastic impact. Beach
profile section 7 is a good example of this. At the start of phase the beach exhibits a
steady decline into the sea and at the end it shows a 1500 cm decrease in the beach
width. The strong tides had also erased half of the beach width.
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10. Great Green Macaw
10.1 Introduction
The Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus) is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red
List and protected under Appendix I of CITES. The estimated population for Costa Rica is
approximately 35 reproductive pairs, leading to the idea that this population depends on
the larger macaw population in the Indio-Maz Biological Reserve in Nicaragua.
The growing concerns about the status of the Great Green Macaw have lead to the
creation of the Great Green Macaw Research and Conservation Project - started by
conservation biologist Dr. George V. N. Powel. This project has been working in Costa
Rica since 1994 to raise awareness and carry out research into this species. It is currently
being run by Centro Cientfico Tropical in association with several organisations, including
GVI Costa Rica, the National University of Costa Rica (UNA) and the Scientific Committee
of the Costa Rican Ornithological Association (AOCR).
Between Jan 2007 and July 2008, GVI Costa Rica recorded 14 records of Great Green
Macaws at Estacin Biolgica Cao Palma as part of the Incidental Special Study. During
the Mesoamerican Conference for Biology and Conservation in El Salvador in November
2008, we were invited to assist in the collection of data for Centro Cientfico Tropicals
Great Green Macaw Research and Conservation Project for the San Juan La Selva
Biological Corridor, first beginning collecting data for the Tortuguero area under their
requirements at the end of November 2008.
10.2 Aim
This project aims to create a better understanding of the population of Great Green
Macaws through incidentally recording sightings. This will enable us to get a broader
picture of how and when the species use the lowland rainforest of Tortuguero National
Park and surrounding areas.
10.3 Methodology
The methodology has remained unchanged since its inception in 2009. See Appendix I for
a full description.
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10.4 Results
Table 10-1 Great Green Macaw Sightings in Phase 111
Date Hour Place #Macaws
21-2-2011 5:50 Start of Sierpe Viejo Canal 4
10.5 Discussion
For Phase 111 there was only one confirmed sighting of the Great Green Macaws. This
was during a bird survey at the entrance of Sierpe Viejo. Although the number of sightings
has decreased dramatically since phase 104, we can not speculate much into the
population numbers.
What can be seen is that when they are spotted they are in large group numbers instead
of solitary individuals. It can only be anticipated that more groups will be encountered
during the next phases in 2011.
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Silver S., 2004. Assessing jaguar abundance using remotely triggered cameras. Wildlife
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Trong S., 2000. Predation of Green (Chelonia mydas) and Leatherbac