This morning we went out to the traps we worked on earlier in the week to see what critters we caught. We were surprised to find many frogs and lizards. Two of the lizards were quite large but the others were tiny. In order to collect the animals from the traps you must first clear the trap of any potentially dangerous insects such as scorpions. Scorpions can not severely hurt you, but their sting is quite painful. To remove these insects we use large tweezers. I removed two large tarantulas today! Collecting the frogs is tricky because they are quick. Scooping them with your hands is the best way to get them. It takes a couple of tries but once you get it in you hand you must close your palm to secure it. Lizards are more tricky because they can bite. To prevent being bitten by a lizard you must hold it behind the head so it can not turn and bite. Again, this is not too dangerous but the bite is painful. I am proud to say that I picked up a lizard today!
After our long and restful lunch it was straight to the lab to weight and measure the animals. The scientists goal is to figure out what types of reptiles are common to this part of the Pantanal. We also consider if the animal was caught near a fresh water lake or a salt water lake to determine its preferred habitat. Measuring the frogs is a bit difficult because you have to hold their legs straight so they do not jump away. I became quite adept at measuring frogs but I was not as good at measuring the lizards! After we measure and weigh them everything is recorded on spreadsheets for data collection. I was so surprised to see how colorful and unique each frog can be. The same is true for lizards. Some have a beautiful blue color with black dots.
This is how we measure frogs using the spring scale.
Someone asked about plants in the Pantanal being used for medicine. Apparently some local plants are used as remedies for stomach and throat problems but they are only used locally. The Amazon in far north from where we are. We are in the southwest on the Bolivia Paraguay border.
I hope everone has a great vacation! I will see you all when I return.
Ms. Masella
After our long and restful lunch it was straight to the lab to weight and measure the animals. The scientists goal is to figure out what types of reptiles are common to this part of the Pantanal. We also consider if the animal was caught near a fresh water lake or a salt water lake to determine its preferred habitat. Measuring the frogs is a bit difficult because you have to hold their legs straight so they do not jump away. I became quite adept at measuring frogs but I was not as good at measuring the lizards! After we measure and weigh them everything is recorded on spreadsheets for data collection. I was so surprised to see how colorful and unique each frog can be. The same is true for lizards. Some have a beautiful blue color with black dots.
Someone asked about plants in the Pantanal being used for medicine. Apparently some local plants are used as remedies for stomach and throat problems but they are only used locally. The Amazon in far north from where we are. We are in the southwest on the Bolivia Paraguay border.
I hope everone has a great vacation! I will see you all when I return.
Ms. Masella
1 comment:
I do not know that happen I push the wrong button on the computer. Thanks for feedback on the Amazon River and the plants. I ask because the Gillette plant is located on the Amazon River. I guess from what the people I know who visited the plant the Amazon River is quite a place to see. You must wonder who is asking the questions, Wendi said I must tell you. It is her dad and I have read your blog everyday. Keep up the good work. Thanks
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