The Opwall experience at Calakmul, Mexico was one that cannot be matched. While the week had many highs, lows and challenges, the skills, information and experience will stick with both of us forever.
Throughout the week, we took part in assisting scientists in collecting data about biodiversity in the Calakmul biosphere reserve. We searched for mammal tracks, baited butterfly traps, went on a night time herpetofauna walk, and saw so much nature that we would never experience back in New Zealand.
The day would start with a morning survey in a nearby transect. If we were lucky, we would spot all kinds of different fauna; the most memorable for us being spider monkeys hanging in the trees throwing sticks down at us. We would make our way back to camp, and all hang out together until lunch, where we were able to experience some of the local cuisine. After lunch, we learnt more about how our data collection was used to better understand the environment through short informational lectures from the scientists. Then, it was straight back to data collection in another round of activities. It’s a jam-packed day!
Photo by Andy Clark
From all these activities, this trip has shown us why data collection is so important for understanding the biodiversity of protected areas like Calakmul. We were also able to see what a career in biology can look like outside the classroom, using our knowledge from school in real life situations. In fact, it was so enjoyable you might see us back here as scientists!
The Operation Wallacea Calakmul expedition is more than just a trip to the jungle, it is an experience that has real life implications and one you will never forget!
Title photo by Kevin Schafer
© 2025 Operation Wallacea Ltd. Website by Yello Media.
Social Media Links