Operation Wallacea in Madagascar: Day 6
Day 6 – Matsedroy 18/06/2024 – Tuesday
Our first Tuesday in Matsedroy started off with a bang for group C with a 4:00am wake up for the bird count survey, where they heard the calls of the blank sunbird and paradise flycatcher. Group A also had a blast on their morning Herp (snakes, geckos, chameleons, etc.) hike which consisted of them not only seeing but holding large snakes which are endemic to Madagascar, which really emplified how special and unique Madagascar is and showed us just how lucky we are to see such an amazing variety of species which we wouldn’t see anywhere else in the entire world. The Herp walk also required logging every species seen on the trip, as well as the temperature and location, so scientists can explore which areas consist of which species.
We can’t forget to mention group B either, they had a relaxing hike full of fun and positivity like no other! Group B went on a butterfly hike where they captured and released various species after investigating them. The group caught a whopping 33 butterflies and spent the hike dancing and running around the enjoying the Madagascar experience, showcasing a perfect blend of studying and fun.
Finally, group D woke up at 7am to do the lemur survey. They found 20 lemurs ranging from the Shifak, monkey and mouse lemur. The lemurs were 9 close by and the unforgettable experience of seeing them made the hike distance feel as if it wasn’t far or long at all despite it being 2 hours long!
All in all, the last morning hikes in Matsedroy were amazing, we are so grateful to be here in Madagascar to learn so much both scientifically and culturally.
This day also consisted of everyone dreading trekking back the main camp, called Mariarano. The tiredness really kicked in as the hike started off with a climb up a sandy hill, filled with rubble and rocks. As the river crossings came we were all very ecstatic, as it cooled us down immensely. Eventually after a sweaty 3 hours we all arrived at the main camp. As group C had woken up so early they sneakily got off from doing a night survey, and they played card games all evening. The others went on surveys.
Simreen, Robyn & Annika
