Near the waterfall pictured yesterday, I discovered several eggs exposed in the stream bed. They are no doubt reptilian, but I’m not positive which type. Given the great abundance of Basilisca vittatum (Jesus Christ Lizard or basilisk) surrounding the stream, the size, and the general lack of turtles, I’d guess they are from a basilisk. Further, given that the eggs are exposed, they are unlikely to be viable… que triste.
Today, Mike and I leave San Jose for Cleveland. We successfully trekked Peninsula de Osa and collected some solid data for Mike’s dissertation at 14 beautiful, tropical streams, the first of which, Rio San Pedrillo, is pictured below. A great start to a great trip.
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This is what likely stings us while in the ocean in front of Campanario, according to Helena Molina. In that part of the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, they don’t get much larger than this (about the size of a silver dollar), so they aren’t very dangerous. They still hurt…
Right, Mark?
This little bird was caught at Campanario and died as we attempted to release it from the mist net. Only two other bird species were caught in the mist net: Black-cheeked ant-tanagers and tawny-backed woodcreepers.
The third species of Porthidium I’ve encounter, P. porrasi is found on the Osa Peninsula. I discovered P. nasutum in La Selva a few years ago, and P. ophryomegas in Palo Verde last June. I’ve yet to see P. volcanicum though…
We’re leaving for our trip today…
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This little anole seems to the the most common around the Proyecto Campanario, on the Osa Peninsula. Their patterning and colors vary on their body, but the dew-lap is mostly orange.
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A new anole for me… but Oscar caught it.
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In Campanario, these ants patrol much of the forest. When agitated, they move into a defensive position with their abdomen below them, pointed as a gun. I know some ant do it, so I suspect they are capable of spraying formic acid at offenders.
Staying calm by picturing serene landscapes such as this. I’ll be back there in just 2 weeks.