We asked you what expedition you would choose if you won our $2,800 first prize in the competition on our Instagram story last week. Here is what some of you picked:
Costa Rican Sea Turtles
Participants will have the opportunity to adventure to the pristine beaches of Costa Rica and assist scientists in critical research gathering. You will be doing hands-on activities such as tagging each turtle observed, relocating eggs from nests in dangerous spots, and releasing hatchings. This species of sea turtles are on the brink of extinction, and your help will be vital for helping protect them.
Investigating Threats to Chimps in Uganda
Participants will trek through the largest rainforest in East Africa and observe why these chimpanzees are struggling to find enough food. You will observe wild chimps and monkeys, help capture and band fruit eating birds, and examine fruit tree patterns, revealing how climate change is impacting this landscape.
Recovery of the Great Barrier Reef
Participants will venture to Queensland, Australia and experience the beauty of the largest living organism on earth. However, the health of the reef is threatened due to climate change. Rising sea surface temperatures are leading to coral bleaching and stronger destructive cyclones which lead to the growth of microalgae in order to promote the regrowth of new coral for the future.
Conserving Endangered Rhinos in South Africa
Participants will journey to South Africa, home to three-quarters of the rhino population, and help stop the poaching crisis. Due to the high value of rhino horn, the rhino population is suffering. Use your observation skills to monitor this endangered species and study the effect of horn trimming on rhino behavior and social interactions.
What would you choose if you won? Let us know in the comments below!