Following Darwin's Finches in the Galapagos - …earthwatch.org/...following-darwins-finches-in-the-galapagos-2014.pdfFollowing Darwin s Finches in the Galápagos 2014 Dear thwatcher,

Following Darwin’s Finches in the Galápagos 2014


Dear earthwatcher, It is a real pleasure to welcome you to Following Darwin’s Finches in the Galápagos expedition. On this expedition you will have the opportunity to visit Galápagos Islands, one of the most enchanted places on our planet, while helping us with our research on Darwin’s finches, one of the most iconic species in evolutionary biology. Your support as volunteer will be invaluable for us as we try to understand the evolutionary processes that promote the diversification of finches, as well as how human disturbances could affect these processes. this issue is of extreme importance in our current times given the complex ways that humans interact with the natural world. with this project, we hope to contribute to a more general understanding of how the biodiversity of our planet might fare in the face of continuing human disturbances.

By interacting with our dynamic team of scientists in the field, we hope that you will get hands-on experience in the use of the basic tools and techniques for data collection in ecology and evolution. You will also gain insight into how scientific knowledge is generated.

we thank you very much for your support. we’re glad that you can join us in this exciting endeavor to increase our scientific knowledge about the natural world.

Sincerely,

Dr. Luis Fernando De León Institute for Scientific research and high technological Services

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1Following Darwin’s Finches in the Galápagos 2014

table of contentsGeneral Information � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2

The Research � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6

Your Destination � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8

Daily Life in the Field � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 10

Accommodations and Food � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 12

Travel Planning � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 14

Travel Tips � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 15

Project Conditions � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �17

Safety � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 19

Project Staff � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 21

Recommended Reading � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 22

Participant Rights and Responsibilities � � � � � 23

Communications � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 27

Message from Earthwatch � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 28

Images © Luis Fernando De León, andrew hendry


General InformationFollowing Darwin’s Finches in the Galápagos

Expedition Dates:

Team 1: Jan. 14 – 23, 2014

Team 2: Jan. 28, 2014 – Feb. 6, 2014

Team 3: Feb. 11 – Feb. 20, 2014

Earthwatch Scientist: Dr. Luis Fernando De León

Research Site: Santa cruz Island, Galápagos, ecuador

Full travel information is not available in this online version of the briefing� Please contact Earthwatch if you need assistance�

Expedition Update

Following Darwin’s Finches in the Galapagos All Teams

November 13, 2013

Dear Earthwatch Volunteer,

We hope you are getting excited for your upcoming Earthwatch expedition!

The Galapagos National Park has just changed its entry requirements: visitors to certain research sites must be

registered on research permits. We now must officially register your name with the park so you can go to all the research

sites associated with this expedition. To do so, we need to collect the following information:

1) Passport information: Full name, passport number, country of issue, and expiration date.

2) CV or résumé: Your most recent version. If it’s not up to date, just add a brief statement describing your

current professional activities or status. If you are retired, note that. The résumé is exclusively for visitor

records at the national park and won’t be used for any other reason.

This information must be submitted to Earthwatch at least five weeks prior to your team’s start date. Please call

or email the Earthwatch office that signed you up with this information as soon as possible.

We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you for your understanding, and your support of this important research in

the Galapagos Islands.

Thank you,

The Earthwatch Team

If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, contact the appropriate Earthwatch office:

T: +61 (0) 3-9016-7590

[email protected]

T: +81 (0) 3-6686-0300 [email protected]

T: +44 (0) 1865-318-831

[email protected]

T: +1 (800) 776-0188

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]





Expedition Update

Following Darwin’s Finches in the Galapagos Team 1 (Jan. 14 - Jan. 23, 2014) & Team 2 (Jan. 28 - Feb. 6, 2014)

December 5, 2013 Dear Earthwatch Volunteer, We hope you are looking forward to your upcoming expedition in the Galapagos. Due to a change in schedule for flights arriving in Baltra, we have postponed the rendezvous time for Teams 1 and 2 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Jan. 14, 2014 and Jan. 28, 2014, respectively. One of the morning flights on LAN Ecuador-- Flight XL 1553-- originally scheduled to arrive at 10:35 a.m., is now landing at 11:50 a.m.

Thank you, The Earthwatch Team

Expedition Update

Following Darwin’s Finches in the Galapagos Team 3 (Feb. 11-20, 2014)

December 5, 2013 Dear Earthwatch Volunteer, We hope you are looking forward to your upcoming expedition in the Galapagos. Due to a change in the schedule for flights arriving in Baltra, we have postponed the rendezvous time for Team 3 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on February 11, 2014. One of the morning flights on LAN Ecuador-- Flight XL 1551-- originally scheduled to arrive at 10:35 a.m., is now landing at 11:50 a.m.

Thank you, The Earthwatch Team


tO DO ImmeDIateLY make sure you understand and agree to earthwatch policies and participant responsibilities (see pg. 24).

90 DaYS PrIOr tO eXPeDItION complete and return your volunteer forms. Below are the specific forms required for this expedition:

Earthwatch Participation Form for Adults

Travel Form

to complete forms, login at www�earthwatch�org.

Note: If you have signed up for an expedition within 90 days of the start date, you must return your fully completed volunteer forms as soon as possible.

Pay any outstanding balance on your expedition.

Book travel arrangements (see the travel Planning section, pg. 14, for details).

If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance, note that some policies require purchase when your expedition is booked (see the Insurance section, pg. 21, for more information).

If traveling internationally, make sure your passport is current and obtain a visa for your destination country, if necessary (see the Passports and Visas section, pg. 17, for more details).

make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations for your project site (see the Safety section, pg. 20).

Bring your level of fitness up to the standards required (see the Project conditions section, pg. 18).

60 DaYS PrIOr tO eXPeDItION review the packing list (pg. 4) to make sure you have all the clothing, personal supplies, and equipment needed.

30 DaYS PrIOr tO eXPeDItION Leave the earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with a friend or relative (see pg. 29).

Leave copies of your passport, visa, and airline tickets with a friend or relative.

confirm your travel arrangements.

trIP PLaNNer

Read this expedition briefing thoroughly. It provides the most accurate information available at the time of your earthwatch scientist’s project planning, and will likely answer any questions you have about the project. however, please also keep in mind that research requires improvisation, and you may need to be flexible. research plans evolve in response to new findings, as well as to unpredictable factors such as weather, equipment failure, and travel challenges. to enjoy your expedition to the fullest, remember to expect the unexpected, be tolerant of repetitive tasks, and try to find humor in difficult situations. If there are any major changes in the research plan or field logistics, earthwatch will make every effort to keep you well informed before you go into the field.


requIreD ItemS

GeNeraL this expedition briefing

Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and credit cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents

Passport and/or visa (if necessary)

certification of vaccination (if necessary)

Documentation for travel by minors (if necessary) (see Volunteers under 18 Years of age in the travel tips section, pg. 17)

cLOthING/FOOtwear FOr FIeLDwOrk earthwatch t-shirt

three to four t-shirts

two to three lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts

two to three pairs of quick-drying long pants

wide-brimmed sun hat

Socks

hiking boots

waterproof jacket and trousers (some of our work areas have long grass that can get very wet after rain)

cLOthING/FOOtwear FOr LeISure at least one set of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition

Shorts for relaxing around the field station

two to three changes of nicer clothes to wear into town for dinner

Sandals or other light footwear

FIeLD SuPPLIeS Small daypack

Insect repellent spray

two one-liter water bottles

high-SPF sunscreen

Sunglasses

eXPeDItION PackING checkLISt


BeDDING aND BathING Sheets, blankets, pillows, and towels will be provided by the accommodations.

PerSONaL SuPPLIeS Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged)

Personal first aid kit (e.g., antibacterial wipes or lotion, antidiarrhea pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers, etc.) and personal medications

headlamp with extra batteries and extra bulb

Spending money

SuGGeSteD ItemS Bathing suit

mask and snorkel

Binoculars

camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery

Drybag or plastic sealable bags (good for protecting equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water)

hardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of the expedition

travel guide

Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for free time

hammock

Note: Packing lists are accurate to the best of Earthwatch’s knowledge at the time of publication�


the StOrYhumans have had a huge impact on the fragile ecosystem of the Galápagos Islands, often in obvious ways: clearing forests, overfishing, introducing new species that wreak havoc on the native environment. this research focuses on a more subtle human impact: how introduced foods could change the face—literally—of the iconic Darwin’s finches.

You’ll primarily focus on the medium ground finch (Geospiza fortis) on this expedition. Like other Darwin’s finch species, these birds evolved to have a tight link between beak size and size of seeds they eat, a link that’s essential to their survival. the previous work of the researchers leading this expedition suggests that small-beaked finches thrive because they can easily handle the abundant small seeds, while large-beaked finches thrive because they can easily handle abundant large seeds. Finches with medium-sized beaks, however, have lower chances of survival and are less abundant because of a dearth of medium-sized seeds. these natural dynamics are important, because they maintain the distinction and balance between the small- and large-beaked finches.

But on the island of Santa cruz in the areas around Puerto ayora, the archipelago’s largest town, finches have started to depend on human food staples like rice. this

the researchFollowing Darwin’s Finches in the Galápagos

change seems to be eroding the distinction between the large-beaked and small-beaked finches and creating a population of “lazier” birds—finches that don’t have to work hard to find the right food for their beak size and shape. this has allowed for an increase in the number of birds with medium-sized beaks that might not have survived in natural conditions. this shift indicates that human influences in finch diet might be weakening the process of natural selection that maintains the divergence between populations and species.

reSearch aImSwith your help, these researchers will deepen their investigation into how introduced food is changing the medium ground finch and other ground finches. this study will have important long-term implications regarding the evolution and preservation of Darwin’s finches in the Galápagos Islands, and possibly other species around the world. It will help illuminate how humans can impact the evolutionary processes, and it will provide some guidelines for the conservation of Darwin’s finches in face of increasing human disturbance. the research can also help raise awareness of the unexpected ways humans trigger the decay of biodiversity, even in one of the best-protected places in the world.


when charles Darwin observed the group of finch species that eventually inherited his name, he began to articulate for the first time how evolution works. these birds still offer valuable insights into evolutionary processes and can tell us much more about how we humans reshape those processes. Your work will help conserve the distinctions that make these historically and biologically significant species what they are.

hOw YOu wILL heLPYou’ll study finch populations around the most populated areas of Santa cruz Island and compare them with finches at sites that have been less influenced by human activities. In particular, you’ll help:

Catch ground finches to assess their abundance, their variation in beak size and shape� You’ll help the researchers set up and monitor mist nets (lightweight nets with pockets that catch and hold birds). when a finch is caught, the team will:

• take the birds out of the mist net.

• take measurements of their beak size, head size, and body dimensions.

• Photograph the birds. researchers later will enter these photographs into a computer program that

analyzes beak shape and size variation between finches.

• collect blood samples for population genetics analyses.

• Band each bird with a combination of one metal band and three color bands so that it can be identified later.

• estimate the abundance and density of birds at the study sites, using both catch rates from the mist nets and how many birds we see on transect surveys (described below).

each bird will then get a drop of sugar water and be released unharmed at the site of capture. You may only observe some of these tasks, such as the morphological measurements and extraction of blood samples, which need to be done by an expert.

Analyze finch diets� at both populated and more isolated spots, you’ll use binoculars to observe finches during their normal feeding behavior and record what and how much they eat.

Survey food resources� at random locations, the team will set up fifty quadrants of one square meter each and ten transects of 50 meters each. within each, you will survey

the number of seeds on the ground and the number of seeds and fruit on the vegetation. these surveys will allow the researchers to quantify the finch food available at sites that have been disturbed by humans and those that haven’t.

Monitor mate choice� the team will also observe the mate preference of banded birds at the study sites. this will help illustrate how females choose between small- and large-beaked birds as mates in the context of human disturbances.

Manage data� You’ll help enter and organize the data collected into computer programs, an important step that helps the scientists back up valuable field data and prepare it for statistical analysis.


the Galápagos Islands are truly like no other place on earth. Discovered in 1535, they still have nearly all the species Darwin saw in 1835, in stark contrast to other isolated places where humans have settled (like hawaii, tahiti, New Zealand, and australia) and decimated the native fauna. the Galápagos are an archipelago of 13 major islands and over a hundred smaller islands that are part of ecuador, though they straddle the equator about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the ecuadorian coast. these islands host an amazing array of endemic animal species: Galápagos giant tortoises, terrestrial and land iguanas, fur seals and sea lions, sharks, rays, and 26 species of native birds—14 of which make up the group known as Darwin’s finches. these finches are notoriously difficult to identify; widely considered the fastest-evolving vertebrates, their appearance and behavior quickly adapt to this closed and rapidly changing environment. as part

of this project, you’ll benefit from the expert knowledge of researchers who work with these finches daily and can correctly identify them—something many tour guides can’t do reliably.

although the climate of the islands is comfortable for humans, the conditions are extremely variable for the wildlife. In some years not a drop of rain falls, while in others it pours. these unpredictable, extreme conditions strongly select for different traits that survive across years, and we can literally see and measure these changes from one year to the next. we expect to see such changes in finches, because the abundance of different food sources varies with the weather.

Four of the islands—Santa cruz, San cristobal, Isabela, and Floreana—have significant human populations. You’ll visit Santa cruz on this expedition, which has a bustling

Your Destinationabout the Galápagos


population of about 20,000 people. You’ll find guided tours of active volcanic areas, forests, wildlife hotspots, and snorkeling and diving reefs. You may get to visit the free-ranging tortoises at the island’s tortoise reserves, or take a day trip to a nearby island to see sea lion, frigate bird, and booby colonies. You’ll also find restaurants and the usual amenities associated with any urban center. the main town, Puerto ayora, where you will be staying, is the headquarters of the national park and the charles Darwin research Station, and there you can visit the interpretation center and beautiful tortuga Bay.

Your work days, though, may well prove to be the most exciting time you spend in the Galápagos—because you’re participating in a research project, you’ll become thoroughly familiar with wildlife on Santa cruz, especially finches. the team usually works in coastal lowland areas around the main human settlements on the Island, although we also work at one highlands site (see map on pg. 7). In the lowland zone you’ll experience the typical Galápagos landscape, composed of native scrub plant species and Opuntia, or prickly pear, cacti. Finches build their nests in these cacti, so researchers often spot finch pairs raising their nestlings. these areas are typically arid, but during the rainy season (January to may), showers can transform the dry landscape into a green carpet of vegetation. the variability of the climate here influences how and when plants fruit and seeds, which in turn determines finch reproductive success. this dynamic gives researchers an excellent opportunity to study how human-introduced foods shape finch populations.


Daily Life in the FieldYour days will start bright and early. after breakfast and a ride to the day’s research site, you’ll begin work at around 6:00 a.m. First, the team will set up mist-nets. when a finch is caught, you’ll help the researchers take measurements, photograph them, and take blood samples for genetic analysis.

Once the morning’s work is done, the team will return to Puerto ayora for lunch and some afternoon data entry. the late afternoons and early evenings will involve setting up more nets, observing finches as they feed, or surveying vegetation, and then you’ll head out for dinner.

Recreational day: Your team will have full day free during this expedition, which gives you a great chance to explore. You might wish to take a day tour of Floreana Island, one of Darwin’s other stops in this fascinating archipelago, where you can snorkel and see sea lions, tortoises, and other wildlife. animals also abount in Santa cruz Island’s academy Bay, another lovely place to visit and snorkel.

earthwatch recreatIONaL tIme POLIcYProject staff will generally accompany participants from the rendezvous to the end of the expedition. For recreational days, when no research activities are scheduled, earthwatch scientists will offer either a team activity or a range of recreational activities that comply with earthwatch standards. Participants may also remain at project accommodations. those who pursue other options must sign a release form.

If there is a period of time during a regular research day when no research activities are scheduled, adult participants may leave the project site on their own; they will have to sign out first. unless contacted for help, project staff will not search for a participant unless he or she fails to appear the following morning or for the next scheduled research activity.

earthwatch will assess the general risks of adult participants leaving the project site, but cannot guarantee participant safety or an awareness of all issues. In some cases, due to local conditions, adult participants may have to stay at the project site during recreational time, which will be clearly communicated on site.

Plans and Policies


ItINerarY aND DaILY ScheDuLe

weather and research needs can lead to changes in the schedules below. we appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

ItINerarY

Day 1 arrival and orientation in the afternoon

Day 2 training and fieldwork

Days 3 to 5 Fieldwork

Day 6 Free day

Days 7 to 9 Fieldwork

Day 10 Departure

tYPIcaL DaILY ScheDuLe

4:30 a�m� wake up and eat a quick breakfast

5:00 a�m� Depart for the field (a 45-minute taxi ride)

5:50 a�m� Set up nets to capture birds

10:00 a�m� close down nets and organizing equipment

11:00 a�m� Depart for home

11:50 a�m� arrive home

12:00 to 1:30 p�m� Lunch time

2:00 p�m� check email; enter data

3:00 to 6:00 p�m� Sett up more nets, feeding observations and/or plant survey

6:30 p�m� Dinner and discussion of the research

9:00 p�m� time for bed


SLeePINGLike many researchers who visit the island of Santa cruz, you’ll stay in the simple but comfortable dorms at the charles Darwin research Station, which is run by the charles Darwin Foundation (cDF). each room has two single beds (sheets and towels are provided), as well as a small fridge.

BathrOOmSeach room has a private bathroom with a conventional toilet and shower. hot water for the showers is sometimes available, but often it doesn’t work very well.

eLectrIcItYrooms have 110-volt electricity and u.S. sockets (usually with two prongs).

accommodations and Food

cOmmuNIcatIONScurrently there is no Internet access in the dorm rooms themselves, but there is Internet access in the station’s office about 200 meters from the dorms.

DIStaNce FrOm FIeLD SItewe will travel to the field site each day by taxi. It’s an approximately 45-minute ride.

SerVIceS aND reStauraNtS IN waLkING DIStaNcethe center of Puerto ayora, about a 20-minute walk from the research station, has shops, banks, grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and hotels. there are laundry facilities in there (approximately $4.00 per load), which the team can visit as needed throughout the expedition; you can pick up or drop off laundry when passing through Puerto ayora for dinner or on the way back from the field.

about Your home in the Field


FOODwe will visit local restaurants in town (about a 20-minute walk from the dorms) for dinner. the dorms also have a small kitchen where we may prepare meals as a group. Because the Galápagos is a tourist destination, you can often find good american food like hamburgers, pizza, and fries. Local dishes often contain rice, beans, and meat or seafood. Some fresh veggies and fruits are available at the local supermarkets, but the selection may be limited.

Options for vegetarian, vegan, and lactose- and gluten-free diets are available, but may be limited in variety.

Types of food to expect (please be flexible in the field):

Breakfast: Yogurt, granola, bananas, cereal, hard-boiled eggs

Lunch: Instant soup, crackers, sandwiches

Dinner: Beans, rice, beef, chicken, fish, seafood

Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, cookies

Beverages: Juice

Water: tap water is NOt potable on Santa cruz, but each bedroom is stocked with gallon jugs of drinking water.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Please alert earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian or vegan diets, diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food allergies) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms.


travel Planningrendezvous and Departure Information

The rendezvous and departure information for this project has been removed from this web version of the expedition briefing� It is only available in the printed version of the briefing� Please do not make any travel arrangements to join an expedition without having full and up-to-date travel information from Earthwatch� Full rendezvous details, including places and times are available from Earthwatch upon request prior to registration for an expedition� Please get in touch with an Earthwatch representative, who will be very happy to help you�


Cultural considerations: the dress code is slightly more conservative than in the u.S., so do not wear extremely casual or revealing clothing in town (e.g., very short shorts, bathing suits).

Electricity: 120 volts, 60hz (u.S. standard voltage) supplied through type a (most common) or B sockets. See www�kropla�com/electric2�htm for more information.

travel tipsLuGGaGeLost or delayed luggage: If your luggage goes astray, please instruct the airline to deliver the bags to Baltra airport and to alert you of the delivery at charles Darwin Foundation (tel: +593 (5) 2526-146 or +593 (5) 2526-147, ext. 225). cDF staff will arrange for pick it up from the airport as soon as possible.

General Considerations: Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. If you’re traveling by air and checking your luggage, we advise you to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. many airlines have strict baggage policies. Please check with your airline(s) on baggage weight limits, liquid restrictions, fees for checked baggage, etc.

Transferring luggage: If you will be taking an international flight that has one or more connections within the country of your destination, you must collect any checked bags at the airport where you first arrive in the destination country. after proceeding through customs, you will have to recheck your luggage before flying on to your final destination.

mONeY matterSLocal currency: the u.S. dollar (uSD) is legal tender in the Galápagos.

Personal funds: there are several atms in Puerto ayora, and credit cards are accepted at some of the tourist restaurants. we suggest you bring about $300 in cash for entrance fees, souvenir shopping, etc.

when you arrive in the Galápagos Islands, you must pay two fees in cash: 1) a national park entrance fee and 2) a fee for a transit control card (tarjeta de control de transito), issued by the consejo de Gobierno de Galápagos. For the average visitor (adult, non-ecuadorian) the national park entrance fee is is uSD$100. the fee for the transit control card is $10.

these fees are accurate at the time of printing this briefing and are subject to change.

YOur DeStINatION Language: Spanish. the project will be conducted in english.

Plug type a Plug type B

Suggestions for the road

Time zone: Gmt -6 hours. For time worldwide with Gmt/utc, see www�worldtimeserver�com�

Telephone dialing codes: when calling ecuador from another country, dial the country’s international dial-out code, followed by 593 and the number. when calling within ecuador, omit the 593 and dial 0. when calling another country from ecuador, dial 00, followed by the other country’s country code and the number.

Note: check with your cell phone provider to obtain any carrier-specific dialing codes you may need; many providers have dialing procedures that may differ in whole or in part from these directions. For additional information, see www�kropla�com/dialcode�htm.


will You Need a Passport?travelers coming to ecuador from other countries must have passports valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry into the country.

will You Need a Visa?citizens of the u.S., eu, australia, canada, and Japan DO NOT need tourist visas for entry. citizens of other countries should check with their travel agent or a visa agency for specific visa and entry requirements.

electronic System for travel authorization (eSta)If you are traveling from outside the u.S. and have a stop in the u.S., you must register through the eSta program. eSta screens short-term visitors who are citizens of the 36 countries eligible for the u.S. Visa waiver Program (VwP). For a list of those countries, see www�travel�state�gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990�html#countries.

Visitors have to complete eSta at least three days before traveling to the U�S. Once approved, the authorization is valid for up to two years if the individual’s passport does not expire in the meantime. Submit applications through the eSta website: https://esta�cbp�dhs�gov/esta/. as of publication, eSta costs approximately uS$14.00.

Information for Volunteers requiring Visas ONLYType of visa to get: tOurISt

the purpose of your visit is for vacation, holiday or travel. Immigration officials do not always understand the concept of a “working vacation,” or even “volunteering.” words such as “working,” “volunteering,” “research” or “scientific expedition” can raise questions about the country’s foreign labor laws or official scientific research permits and credentials to which you won’t be able to respond on your own. all required research permits for the project are in place and have been approved by the proper authorities.

Where to get a Visa: contact the nearest u.S. embassy or consulate to find out how to apply. this process can take weeks or even months. we strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.

Suggested agencies In the U�S�: travisa; 212-613-2223; www�travisa�com

In Europe: cIBt, Inc. (uk); info@uk�cibt�com; www�uk�cibt�com

In Australia: ask your travel agency if it can send your visa application on your behalf.

Required information: You will need to send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your stay), a visa application and immigration form, two to four passport-size photos, and payment to the embassy or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Contact information: You may have to list the following contact information on your visa application and immigration form:

Charles Darwin Research Station

Puerto ayora, Santa cruz Island

Galápagos, ecuador

tel: +593 (5) 2526-146 or +593 (5) 2526-147, ext. 225

cost of a visa: Generally between uS$40 and $100, but varies from country to country and can cost up to uS$180. a visa agency will charge an additional fee.

Volunteers under 18 Years of age In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have procedures at entry and exit points to protect minors. thus, if a minor will be traveling with only one guardian or alone, he or she may need a notarized letter from all legal guardians stating that the minor may travel unaccompanied or in the presence of a single guardian. If necessary, this letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter should state that. airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors, e.g., a birth certificate or a notarized letter like the one described above.

Important: requirements of specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You must keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If the minor is refused entry into a country or onto a flight because of lack of documentation, there is nothing earthwatch can do to help.

PaSSPOrtS aND VISaS

www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990.html#countries


Project conditionsGeNeraL cONDItIONSthis information is as accurate as possible, but please keep in mind that conditions may change.

the Galápagos archipelago lies on the equator, so it is usually hot and sunny. to avoid the high temperatures, we stop work between 10 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

the Field environment

cONDItIONS

Averages are for the warm rainy season, from December to May�

Humidity: 65% to 85%

Temperature Range: 27°c (80°F) to 32°c (90°F)

Altitude: 0 to 500 m (1,640 ft)

Rainfall: 38 – 62 mm (1.5 – 2.44 in)

eLIGIBILItY requIremeNtS all participants must be able, independently or with the assistance of a companion, to:

Follow verbal and/or visual instructions.

enjoy being outdoors for much of the day in hot, humid, or rainy weather, often exposed to heat and sun for four to six hours, with some mosquitoes.

hike approximately two kilometers per day on uneven terrain.

rise very early in the morning (4:30 a.m.).

Locate, focus on, identify, and observe distant objects with the use of binoculars, both from shore and from boats.

carry a light pack (less than eight kilograms/18 pounds).


POteNtIaL haZarDS

Hazard Type Associated Risks and Precautions

transportation

ecuadorian roads can be risky by western standards due to fast drivers, rain, poor or no lighting, and poor road conditions (especially in rural areas because of heavy rains). Santa cruz has mainly tarmac roads, which can be bumpy. we will avoid driving at night. You must wear a seatbelt whenever possible. earthwatch participants may not drive.

terrain

Fieldwork requires walking on sometimes rocky and irregular terrain, so it is always possible to fall and/or to twist an ankle. although the terrain is mostly flat, there are small, loose, dry lava rocks that are very easy to stumble over. Project staff will guide participants through wide, clear paths to avoid accidents.

animals

although the Galápagos has no large dangerous animals, you will encounter many wild animals in their natural habitat. always follow researchers’ instructions around wild animals.

the islands have four species of mildly poisonous snakes. You may also encounter spiders (including the dramatic giant huntsman, which can be four inches across), the Galápagos centipede (it can be 12 inches long and has a painful bite, but only presents a risk if you walk around at night with bare feet), and the Galápagos scorpion.

Biting insects (e.g., mosquitoes) are common; bring and use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to avoid bites as much as possible. Dengue fever, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, is present. You will also likely encounter yellow paper wasps, aggressive wasps that build papery nests at about shoulder height in bushes. Project staff will show you how to avoid these nests. the island also has fire ants, which have potent stings.

those with allergies to insects should bring appropriate medications (antihistamines, at least two epiPens, etc.), indicate their allergy and treatment needs on their health form, and inform on-site staff about treatment needs and the location of their medication.

Plants teams will encounter Opuntia cacti and other thorny plants that can be painful if one rubs against them. Project staff will advise you and guide you over specific paths to avoid accidents.

climate/weather

Dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, and other heat-related illnesses can occur, especially due to the proximity to the equator. to reduce risk, drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and appropriate clothing. Dehydration from sweating can also happen. Bring water bottles that you can easily carry and refill with water and electrolyte-replacing packets (if you wish).

Social/culturalecuadorians are friendly and welcoming, and the culture is generally tolerant and traditionally conservative. Please be courteous to all people you meet in ecuador—it is common to greet people, and considered rude to ignore anyone passing you.

Swimming research activities do not involve swimming, but you can swim during recreational time. always tell project staff when, where, and with whom you plan to go swimming. Do not swim alone.

Personal Security

the Galápagos Islands have many visitors each year, and petty theft can happen. theft and robbery are greater risks on mainland ecuador, so be cautious in transit and use common sense in urban centers like quito and Guayaquil. travel in pairs or groups, avoid displays of money and valuables, take taxis, avoid travel at night, and leave unnecessary valuables at home. In quito, avoid the following areas at night due to the high risk of petty crime: the old city center, city parks, Virgin of the Panecillo (el Panecillo) shrine, calle morales (also called calle La ronda), el tejar, Parroquia San Sebastián (old city), Gonzalez Suarez (old city), avenida cristóbal colón (new city), and the districts of La mariscal, La carolina, La Floresta, and La marin. also avoid hiking near the antennas of Volcan Pichincha and the teleferico (cable car).


health InformationrOutINe ImmuNIZatIONS all volunteers should have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPt (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, mmr (measles, mumps, rubella), and varicella (if you have not already had chicken pox). Please be sure your tetanus shot is current.

emerGeNcIeS IN the FIeLD Physician, nurse, or emt on staff: Project staff members are not medical professionals.

Staff certified in safety training: CPR: Diana Sharpe

First aid: Diana Sharpe

Water safety: Diana Sharpe (canadian National Lifeguard Service)

Wilderness first aid: Diana Sharpe (certified in 2009), andrew hendery (last updated in 2011)

Nearest medical facility:hospital cantonal republica del ecuador, Puerto ayora, Santa cruz.

Tel: +593 (5) 252-6103.

everywhere on the island is within approximately one hour transport to the hospital (maximum 60 kilometers/37 miles). there is also a clinic about a five-minute drive from the accommodations.

Safety

Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and the following are recommendations only� Earthwatch can only provide details regarding suggested vaccinations, and we are not a medical organization�

aDVIce reGarDING DISeaSeStraveler’s diarrhea affects many international travelers.

Diseases found in ecuador include malaria, dengue fever, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, trypanosomiasis, schistosomiasis, and viral encephalitis. Please see the u.S. centers for Disease control and Prevention (www�cdc�gov) or the world health Organization (www�who�int/) websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them.

You can decrease your risk of most diseases above by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only bottled or filtered water when appropriate.

If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region.

Malaria: at the time of printing, there is no malaria found on the Galápagos.

Dengue fever: the use of insect repellent is highly recommended at dusk and dawn to reduce risk of the mosquito-borne disease dengue fever, which is rare but present on the Galápagos.

PrOJect VaccINatIONS

REQUIRED: If traveling from countries or region where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination.

RECOMMENDED FOR HEALTH REASONS: Typhoid, hepatitis A and B


INSuraNce medevac assistance, advice, and insurance are included in the contribution you pay to earthwatch. the insurance covers your travel medical risks, including medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, while you are traveling. It also provides trip cancellation insurance and baggage and personal money insurance. It doesn’t provide personal liability insurance. this coverage is valid in the country of your earthwatch expedition and during travel to and from your expedition. (Note: For australia volunteers, the coverage is limited if the expedition is less than 50 kilometers from your place of residence).

this insurance policy is secondary to your existing health insurance policy (e.g., NhS in the u.k., medicare in australia).

If you signed up through the U�K�, U�S�, or Japan: If you have additional vacation time before and/or after your earthwatch expedition that forms part of your overall time away from your place of residence, this additional vacation time is not covered under this policy.

Because of different governing laws in each country, policies are specific to each regional earthwatch office. Please check with your sign-up office about your insurance coverage.

For more information, please see www�earthwatch�org/expeditions/travel-insurance. refer any queries to earthwatch’s Operations Department at +1 (978) 450-1222 or insurance@earthwatch�org.

emergency medical and evacuation assistance emergency medical and evacuation assistance from ceGa medical, a 24-hour international service, is also included in your contribution. Please see the contact information in the medical and Security assistance helpline Numbers section on the inside back cover.

You can also call ceGa for non-emergency information before your trip, such as advice on visas and vaccine requirements.

www.earthwatch.org/expeditions/travel-insurance


Project StaffYour resources in the Field

Evolutionary biologist Luis Fernando De León completed his Ph.D. at mcGill university in canada and is currently a researcher at the Institute for Scientific research and high technological Services in Panama. he studies the microevolutionary processes that promote and maintain biological diversification. he also interested in how human activities affect evolutionary processes in natural populations. In his research, Luis Fernando currently uses two study systems: Darwin’s finches of the Galápagos and freshwater fish in Panama. Present on all teams�

Dr� Jeffrey Podos is a professor of biology at university of massachusetts amherst, where is also graduate program director for Organismic and evolutionary Biology. he studies vocal behavior and evolution in songbirds in the u.S., ecuador, and Brazil. this will be his 12th visit to the Galápagos. In recent years Jeff has served on the editorial boards of two journals, and recently completed a stint on the executive committee of the animal Behavior Society. he was also recently named a fellow of the american Ornithologists union. Team 2�

Dr� Andrew Hendry is a professor at mcGill university. his research focuses on how evolutionary changes occur in natural populations, particularly on how rapidly populations can adapt to changing environmental conditions. he has worked on salmon in alaska and New Zealand, guppies in trinidad, stickleback fishes in British columbia, lemon sharks in Bahamas, and Darwin’s finches in Galápagos. Team 3

Dr� Diana Sharpe is a postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian tropical research Institute in Panama. She studies how natural populations adapt to rapid environmental change, particularly change caused by human stressors. She has explored this question in tropical systems that include studies of native freshwater fishes in Lake Victoria (east africa) and Lake Gatun (Panama), and more recently, Darwin’s finches. Team 1

Dr� Joost Raeymakers is a biologist at the university of Basel (Switzerland). he is studying the ecology and evolution of zooplankton, fish, and Darwin’s finches to see how they deal with human-induced environmental change. Team 3

Please note: Staff schedules are subject to change.

evolutionary biologist Dr� Jaime Chaves is interested in the processes that generate and maintain biodiversity. By combining molecular genetic markers and phenotypic data he aims to explore geographic variation across various spatial scales. most of his work focuses on Neotropical birds with special attention to hummingbirds and lately to Darwin’s finches. Team 3


recommended readingYour resources at home

reSOurceS

BOOkS • weiner, J. 1994. The Beak of the Finch: A Story of Evolution in Our Time. 1994.

• Grant, P. r. 1999. Ecology and Evolution of Darwin’s Finches.

• Grant, P. r. and B. r. Grant. 2008. How and why species multiply: the radiation of Darwin’s finches.

FIeLD GuIDeS • Grant, P. r. and B. r. Grant. 2002. unpredictable

evolution in a 30-year study of Darwin’s finches. Science 196: 707-711.

• hendry, a. P., S. k. huber, L. F. De León, a. herrel, and J. Podos. 2009. Disruptive selection in a bimodal population of Darwin’s finches. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 276: 753-759.

• huber, S.k., L.F. De León, a.P. hendry, e. Bermingham, and J. Podos. 2007. reproductive isolation of sympatric morphs in a population of Darwin’s finches. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 274: 1709-1714.

• De León, L.F., J.a.m. raeymaekers, e. Bermingham, J. Podos, a. herrel, and a.P. hendry. 2011. exploring possible human influences on the evolution of Darwin’s finches. Evolution 65: 2258-2272.

• De León, L.F., e. Berminghan, J. Podos, and a.P. hendry. 2010. Divergence with gene flow as facilitated by ecological differences: within-island variation in Darwin’s finches. Phil. Trans. Royal Society B 365: 1041-1052.

FILmS • Galápagos (Blu-ray). 2007. Starring tom hewitt and

tom hiddleston.

FIeLD GuIDeS • Fitter, J., D. Fitter, and D. hosking. 2002. Wildlife of the Galápagos.

• Stephenson, m. 2000. The Galápagos Islands: The Essential Handbook for Exploring, Enjoying and Understanding Darwin’s Enchanted Islands.

• mcmullen, c.k. 1999. Flowering Plants of the Galápagos.

earthwatch SOcIaL meDIa• Facebook: www�facebook�com/earthwatch

• Youtube: www�youtube�com/earthwatchinstitute

• twitter: @earthwatch_org. when you’re in the field with earthwatch, use the hashtag “#globaltweet” to put your work on the map.


this document contains important information concerning earthwatch Institute policies and participant rights and responsibilities for inclusion in an earthwatch expedition. Please read this document thoroughly and sign the Liability release section of your earthwatch Participation Form to indicate that you understand and accept the risks inherent to your expedition and the policies, rights, and responsibilities enumerated in this document. You will not be permitted to participate in an expedition until earthwatch has received the signed release form.

INteLLectuaL PrOPertY rIGhtSIt is permissible to share photos, videos, and stories of your expedition with family, friends, local media, and in a public forum. Sharing your new perspectives and experiences is welcomed and encouraged.

however, please recognize that all information, data, and images shared or gathered in the course of your expedition’s field work become the intellectual property of the earthwatch scientist. co-opting or plagiarism of data, images, or information gathered during an expedition for use in a scientific thesis, master’s, or Ph.D. work, or for profit or for the academic or business use of a third party

Participant rights and responsibilities

without the permission of the earthwatch scientist is strictly prohibited. Please be aware that data gathered during the interviewing of local people become the intellectual property of the earthwatch scientist. earthwatch scientists have the right to place additional restrictions on your ability to share data or certain research-related images.

conversely, an earthwatch scientist may give written permission to use data and images for academic or profitable activity. Please be sure to ask what is acceptable to the earthwatch scientist.

Fellows or scholarship recipients are sometimes required to submit a written report reflecting what they have learned on a project, sometimes as a step toward developing a curriculum. earthwatch scientists have the right but not the obligation to review and edit materials involving information gathered on one of their expeditions.

DIScrImINatIONearthwatch does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by applicable law and respects participants’ right to privacy. however, you must be aware that local laws in countries in which earthwatch operates may not be antidiscriminatory and that the possibility exists that local residents may not have an awareness of preferred practice regarding discrimination.

Discrimination on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated on earthwatch teams. Disruptive behavior or verbal, physical, or any other type of abuse or harassment will also not be tolerated. Violation of earthwatch’s nondiscrimination policy is grounds for expulsion from the program without a refund.

INtImate reLatIONShIPSearthwatch scientists, their staff, their colleagues, and their associates are prohibited from becoming romantically involved with participants during the entire duration of the period that the team is in the field. romantic relationships that may otherwise seem permissible may eventually create an unpleasant or unproductive work environment and are therefore prohibited for the duration of an earthwatch project.


SeXuaL haraSSmeNtPlease recognize that the relationship that exists between earthwatch scientists and staff and participants is analogous to the student-teacher relationship. therefore, please be aware of the following policies.

Sexual harassment of participants by the earthwatch scientist or earthwatch staff is prohibited. Likewise, sexual harassment of other participants, earthwatch field staff, or local people by participants is also prohibited.

Sexual harassment infringes on an individual’s right to an environment free from unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtones of conduct either verbal or physical. Sexual harassment does not mean occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature.

Sexual harassment refers to conduct which is offensive, which harms morale, or which interferes with the effectiveness of earthwatch expedition teams; such conduct is prohibited. Lewd or vulgar remarks, suggestive comments, displaying derogatory posters, cartoons, or drawings, pressure for dates or sexual favors, and unacceptable physical contact or exposure are examples of what can constitute harassment. No one should be touched in areas that would be covered by a bathing suit. It is important to realize that what may not be offensive to you may be offensive to participants, the local population, or earthwatch field staff.

any individual who feels subjected to sexual harassment or has any knowledge of such behavior should report it at once to the earthwatch scientist, Field team Leader, or other earthwatch staff member. the earthwatch scientist or Field team Leader will notify earthwatch when an accusation of sexual harassment or abuse is made or when such conduct is witnessed.

all reports of sexual harassment will be handled with discretion and will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. any participant who is found to have engaged in conduct constituting sexual harassment will be removed from the expedition at his or her own expense. If a minor is involved in allegations of sexual harassment, his or her parents or guardians will be contacted.

DruGSLaws on drug use in most countries are severe and may impose lengthy prison terms or the death penalty. the manufacture, possession, use, purchase, or sale of illegal drugs or other illegal substances while on an earthwatch expedition is strictly prohibited. Prescription drugs may only be purchased and used by the individual indicated on the prescription in keeping with their intended use guidelines.


aLcOhOL Local statutes, customs, practices, ordinances, and regulations with regard to the use, possession, sale, or purchase of alcohol are applicable to all participants and project staff on earthwatch expeditions. Participants and project staff on earthwatch expeditions must comply with the law of the country in which a project is located regarding the minimum age required to consume alcohol. In addition, restriction on the use, possession, sale, or purchase of alcohol may be set by the earthwatch scientist. any restrictions on the consumption of alcohol should be clearly outlined by the project staff in the on-site briefing to participants at the start of the project and in the expedition briefing.

consumption or possession of alcohol or smoking is not permitted on any earthwatch teen team, regardless of local law.

excessive consumption of alcohol by staff or participants is not acceptable on any earthwatch project. Intoxication can jeopardize personal safety, in addition to the safety of the team. It can also cause delay and hinder response in the event of a crisis or emergency situation.

earthwatch staff and the earthwatch scientist have the discretion to remove individuals from the project who consume alcohol in a time and manner that endanger the safety and/or productivity of the expedition.

mINOrSearthwatch considers participants less than eighteen (18) years of age to be minors. minors are not permitted to participate on any of earthwatch’s standard teams unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, in which case the minimum age is fifteen (15). Guardians accompanying minors on standard teams must be 21 years of age or over. minors on standard teams do not receive additional guidance or supervision from earthwatch beyond what is offered to the adult participants. the total number of minors on standard teams may be limited on a project by project basis; this will be noted in the expedition briefing. a maximum of two minors may accompany each parent or guardian on a standard or Family team. earthwatch has developed teams specifically for 15-, 16- and 17-year-olds (“teen teams”) as well as teams specifically for families (“Family teams”) with children as young as 10 years. these teams focus on the same research activities and have the same expectations as our regular teams, but with more facilitation and support. exceptions for some projects may be made at the discretion of earthwatch and the earthwatch scientist. Due to a more in-depth screening process for certain programs that select candidates based on school year rather than age, there may be 18-year-olds fielding on the same team as 15-, 16- and 17-year-olds. Please be aware that some earthwatch projects do not allow participation by minors in any circumstance.


PartIcIPaNtS aND DrIVINGParticipants are not allowed to drive project vehicles (including motorcycles or all terrain vehicles) or aircraft during an expedition. In select circumstances, participants may be able to drive boats under the direct supervision by project staff. these circumstances are predetermined by project staff in collaboration with earthwatch. Participants must respect the restrictions for boat driving in place for each project.

If a project environment is such that participants can drive their own vehicles to the rendezvous, those who have driven themselves to the project may not drive their own vehicles to, from, or for project activities, including the transport of project equipment after arriving at the site.

Participants who have driven themselves to the project may choose to utilize their own vehicles during recreational time, but project staff will brief them on any driving restrictions. all driving during recreational time is done at your own risk.

Please be advised that the only exception to the above driving restrictions is emergency situations.

riding in other participants’ vehicles is not covered under the participants’ insurance policy for the expedition. riding in another participant’s vehicle is done at a participant’s own risk.

IN the eVeNt OF aN emerGeNcYIn the event of emergencies, judgments must be made by earthwatch field staff and participants. while earthwatch makes an effort to ensure that qualified people make the most informed decisions possible, occasionally first aid may be administered and other immediate steps taken by expedition participants who are not licensed medical providers.

each earthwatch expedition has safety protocols and emergency procedures in place. earthwatch encourages team members (the field staff and participants) to exercise their best judgment with regard to their own safety and the safety of other team members. Other participants may perform “Good Samaritan” actions, or actions taken to assist fellow participants during emergency situations in the field. however, earthwatch does not encourage or expect you to jeopardize your own safety or that of others in attempting to rescue or assist your fellow team members.

rIGht OF reFuSaLearthwatch reserves the right to refuse an applicant’s participation in an earthwatch project at any time and to terminate any work being done by a participant and require the participant to vacate the project site if

the earthwatch scientist, Field team Leader, or other earthwatch staff member in his or her absolute discretion considers it appropriate. In this event, the participant (and his or her parents or guardians, if appropriate) will be responsible for arranging and paying for any accommodation, travel, or other arrangements which may be necessary following the termination of a participant’s involvement in a project, for whatever reason, and will not be eligible for a refund.

earthwatch may not refuse an applicant’s participation in a project for discriminatory reasons (race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by applicable law). however, an application may be denied in the interest of team compatibility or due to logistical limitations. earthwatch will make reasonable efforts to accommodate participants with disabilities, and the organization endeavors to find appropriate expeditions for those participants who have physical limitations. refusal of an applicant is an unusual event and is generally done either because of an applicant’s failure to meet the essential eligibility requirements of a particular project or in the interest of team compatibility. In the event that an applicant is refused participation for health reasons, earthwatch will refund in full any deposit or payment made toward the expedition.

earthwatch scientists have the right to refuse special requests, such as visits by media (film, photography, or print), special groups, or teams (students, donors, etc.), if they conflict with earthwatch scientist schedules, safety, research objectives, or general performance of the team.

any participant found in violation of any of the policies described in this document (“Participant rights and responsibilities”) is subject to removal from the team at his or her own expense. By signing the Liability release section of your earthwatch Participation Form, you are indicating that you have read and understand the policies in this document. removal of a participant from a team is at the discretion of the earthwatch scientist, Field team Leader, or other earthwatch staff. In addition, earthwatch will support the right of the earthwatch scientist, Field team Leader, or other earthwatch staff to send a participant away from a project once in the field should his or her behavior compromise the safety, research objectives, or general performance of the team, or if the participant has violated a stated policy. In the event that a minor is dismissed from a project, earthwatch will contact the participant’s parents or guardians prior to his or her dismissal. Should a participant be removed from a team, he or she is responsible for any and all costs associated with departure from the team and will receive neither refund of the minimum contribution for the expedition nor any expenses incurred by participation on the expedition.

(November 2012)


communications

emerGeNcY cOmmuNIcatIONS the area has reliable cellphone reception 24 hours a day. there research station also has Internet access and fax that can be used regularly.

researchers use mainly cellphones in the field because they usually have very good reception, even in remote areas. they also use walkie-talkies in the field.

Police: +593 (5) 252-6101

The 24-hour helpline at Earthwatch headquarters in the U�S� is +1 (978) 461-0081 or +1 (800) 776-0188�

PerSONaL cOmmuNIcatIONS earthwatch encourages volunteers to minimize outgoing calls and immerse themselves in the experience; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages.

VOLuNteer cONtact INFO

address charles Darwin Fundation, Puerto ayora, Santa cruz, Galápagos, ecuador

Phone +593 (5) 2526-146 or +593 (5) 2526-147, ext. 225

Fax+593 (5) 2526-146 or +593 (5) 2526-147, ext. 102

email cientificos@fcdarwin�org�ec

Your resources in the Field


message from earthwatch

earthwatch’s 24-hour helplineIf you need help at any time, call earthwatch’s 24-hour on-call duty officer in the u.S.:

+1 (978) 461-0081

+1 (800) 776-0188

Note: the 800-number works as a toll free call only for calls placed within the u.S.

after business hours, leave your message with our live answering service. State that you have an emergency communication and leave a clear message with the name of the field program, your name, location from which you are calling, and if possible, a phone number where you can be reached. an earthwatch staff person will be contacted and will respond to your call within one hour.

medical and Security assistance helpline Numbers(For assistance while in the field)

when calling any of the helplines, please mention earthwatch and policy reference number 560020011200.

ceGa emergency medical & travel assistance:

+44 (0) 20 3059 8770

You may call this number collect or reverse charges if necessary in a medical emergency.

henderson risk Security assistance and advice:

+44 (0) 20 3059 8772

axisenquiries@hendersonrisk�com

Dear earthwatcher, thank you for joining this expedition! we greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to hands-on environmental science and conservation.

as an earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change. and while you’re out in the field working toward that change, we are committed to caring for your safety. although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we’ve been providing volunteer field experiences with careful risk management and diligent planning for over 40 years. You’re in good hands.

we hope this expedition will inspire you to get more involved in conservation and sustainable development priorities—not just out in the field, but also when you return home. we encourage you to share your experiences with others, and to transfer your skills and enthusiasm to environmental conservation efforts in your workplace, community, and home.

If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, contact your earthwatch office. thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition!

Sincerely,

Larry mason President and ceO

earthwatch u.S. 114 western ave. Boston, ma 02134

[email protected] www.earthwatch.org

Phone: 1-978-461-0081 toll-Free: 1-800-776-0188 Fax: 1-978-461-2332

earthwatch u.k. mayfield house 256 Banbury rd. Oxford, OX2 7De


Phone: 44-0-1865-318-838 Fax: 44-0-1865-311-383

earthwatch australia 126 Bank St. South melbourne, VIc 3205


Phone: 61-0-3-9016-7590 Fax: 61-0-3-9686-3652

earthwatch JapanFood Science Bldg.4Fthe university of tokyo1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-kutokyo 113-8657


Phone: 81-0-3-6686-0300 Fax: 81-0-3-6686-0477

Documents

Following Darwin's Finches in the Galapagos - …earthwatch.org/...following-darwins-finches-in-the-galapagos-2014.pdfFollowing Darwin s Finches in the Galápagos 2014 Dear thwatcher,