gvi jalova expedition phase report report january-march 2011 111

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]


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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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GVI Jalova, Parque Nacional Tortuguero, January - March 2011 ii

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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GVI Jalova, Parque Nacional Tortuguero, January - March 2011 iii

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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GVI Jalova, Parque Nacional Tortuguero, January - March 2011 iv

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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GVI - Jalova, Parque Nacional Tortuguero, January March 2011 Page 5

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





New Results#B2 - 112 Photos 0 - used #B3 32

Photos 0 - used



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Date set 23-Jan-11

Bait/Lure N





New Results#B2 121 Photos 0 - used #B3 59

Photos 0 - used



Date set 2-Feb-11

Bait/Lure N

Dates checked 6-Feb-11Date Removed



New Results#B4 50 Photos 0-used #B5 100

Photos 0-used

Action taken Batteries and SD cards replaced

Dates checked 16-Feb-11



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



New Results#B4 176 Pics 0-used #C3 0 Pics-

cam not working

Action taken Bat replaced + SD cards replaced


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GPS W 083 23 53.4

Position (NNMM) 17


Date set 16-Jan-11

Bait/Lure N





New Results#B1 147 Photos 0-used #B4 60

Photos 0-used


Site left in place (Y/N) N


GPS W 083 24 27.2

Position (NNMM) 16

Cameras in use #C1 #C5

Date set 23-Jan-11

Bait/Lure N





New ResultsCam #C1 410 Photos - none used

Cam #C5 32 Photos - none used




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GPS W 083 24 14.9

Position (NNMM) 16 3/8


Date set 23-Jan-11

Bait/Lure N

Dates checked




New Results#B1 409 Photos - 0 used#B4 91 Photos - 0 used




GPS W 083 24 17.4



Date set 25-Jan-11

Bait/Lure N




New Results#B1 1226 Photos - 0 used

#B4 47 Photos - 0 used




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GPS W 083 24 18.7


Cameras in use #B3

Date set 2-Feb-11

Bait/Lure N


Date Removed 6-Feb-11



New Results #B3 91 Photos 0-used




GPS W 083 24 28.4

Position (NNMM) 16


Date set 9-Feb-11

Bait/Lure N





New Results#B3 118 Photos 0-used#B1 201 Photos 0-used




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GPS W 083 25 05.3

Position (NNMM) Mile 15 Mammal Transect


Date set 16-Feb-11

Bait/Lure N




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



New Results B1-41 pics 0 used; B3-48 pics 0 used

Action takenReplaced batteries and memory

cards


Date set 9-Mar-11Bait/Lure N




New ResultsB1-72 pics 0 used;B3-110 pics 0 used

Action taken Site removed


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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


Cams on dead turtle (Y/N) Y


New Results

Three cameras set,#C1 150 Photos, 4 used.

#C5 0 Photos 0 used#B2 34 Videos 30 used.




GPS W 083 24 18.6

Position (NNMM) Kingfisher trail

Cameras in use #B2 and #C5

Date set 1-Mar-11

Bait/Lure N




New Results B2 630 pics - 0 used C5 - 0 pics




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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


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


seen

Number of Days

SeenMontezuma Oropendola

Psarocoliusmontezuma

89 59



Dusky-capped Flycatcher Myiarchus tubelculifer 24 16



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


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


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-necked Stilt Himantopus mexicanus 10 5

Zone F

Fly over


seenNumber of Days

Seen

Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis 82 50


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


seenNumber of Days

Seen


Passerini's Tanager Ramphocelus passerinii 78 53

Blue-gray Tanager Thraupis episcopus 72 49



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


seenNumber of Days

Seen

Four-lined Whiptail Ameiva quadrilineata 79 54


Green Iguana Iguana iguana 50 34



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


seenNumber of Days

Seen

Marine Toad Bufo marinus 46 31


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


seenNumber of Days

Seen

Central American SpiderMonkey

Ateles geoffroyi 41 28



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


Western Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus atrinucha 56 38




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North Trail 17-16


Surveys# of Records




Ground Anole Norops humilis 37 19


North Boundary


Surveys# of Records



Great Tinamou Tinamus major 25 9

Western Slaty Antshrike Thamnophilus atrinucha 19 7

White-capped Manakin Manacus candei 14 5

South Trail


Surveys# of Records



Western Slaty AntshrikeThamnophilus atrinucha

32 15White-capped Manakin Manacus candei 23 11


Coconut Plantation


Surveys# of Records

Montezuma Oropendola Psarocolius montezuma 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


Surveys# of Records


Montezuma Oropendola Psarocolius montezuma 24 9Mantled Howler Monkey Allouatta palliata 22 8



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




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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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11. References

Aranda, 2000. Huellas y otros rastros de los mamferos grandes y medianos de Mxico.

Instituto de Ecologa, A.C., Xalapa, Mxico, 212

Autar L., 1994. Sea Turtles attacked and killed by Jaguars in Suriname. Marine Turtle

Newsletter, 67, 11-12

Bermdez F.A., 2004. Plan de Manejo del Parque Nacional Tortuguero

Carrillo et al, 1994. Depredacin de Tortuga Lora (Lepidochelys olivacea) y de Tortuga

Verde (Chelonia mydas) por el Jaguar (Panthera onca). Vida Silvestre Neotropical3, 48-49

Harrison E., Trong S., Fletcher M, 2005. Jaguar Predation of Green Turtles (Chelonia

mydas) in Tortuguero, Costa Rica Current Trends and Conservation Implications.

Caribbean Conservation Corporation. Costa Rica 2BBC Natural History Unit

IUCN, 2002. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources Red

List.

Myers, N., Mittermeier, R.A., Mittermeier, C.G., da Fonseca, G.A.B. & Kent, J., 2000

Biodiversity hotspots for conservation priorities. Nature, 403, 853-858.

Sanderson et al., 2002. Planning to save a species: the Jaguar as a model. Conservation

Biology, 16(1), 58-72

Seymour K.L., 1989. Panthera onca. Mammalian Species, 1-9.

Sharma, S., Wright, B., 2005. Monitoring Tigers in Ranthambhore using the Digital

Pugmark Technique. Wildlife Protection Society of India.


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Silver S., 2004. Assessing jaguar abundance using remotely triggered cameras. Wildlife

Conservation Society.

Stiles, F.G., Skutch, A.F., 1989. A guide to the birds of Costa Rica. Comstock Publishing

Associates, vii.

Trong S., 2000. Predation of Green (Chelonia mydas) and Leatherbac

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