As a paying volunteer, you directly fund scientific research by covering permits, equipment, and other costs while supporting local vendors.
BOOK WITH A $500 DEPOSIT
Wildlife in the Changing Andorran Pyrenees
TYPICAL ITINERARY:
- DAY 1: Arrival, introduction to research
- DAYS 2鈥8 (spring, summer, fall teams): Training on sapling techniques and activities, small and large mammal monitoring, bird monitoring, vegetation surveys, soil surveys
- DAY 9: Departure
THIS EXPEDITION IS OPEN TO STUDENTS AND TEENS!
Environmental change shows itself in countless small ways. Engage your powers of observation to discover evidence of these changes in one of the world鈥檚 most fragile and beautiful places.
As climate change steadily transforms the high slopes of the Andorran Pyrenees, species are being forced to shift their ranges, and some are facing alarming declines. Human encroachment further disrupts this delicate alpine world. Still, little research has been done to understand how these forces reshape the landscape. Local organizations are urgently seeking sustainable solutions; now, you can be at the forefront of this critical research.
Join researchers on this expedition to help investigate the changing biodiversity of the region. While trekking through the breathtaking landscapes, you鈥檒l study small mammals, birds, and alpine flora. You鈥檒l weigh and measure mammals, monitor nest boxes for boreal owls, and spot other bird species. Your team will also track the growth of tree species and observe bats to determine how these key species respond to climate change. This data will be vital for understanding how species鈥 life cycles are shifting and how best to protect this delicate ecosystem in a changing climate.
Your work will help scientists understand how species鈥 life cycles are shifting and whether ecological relationships, such as plant blooming and pollinator activity, are staying in sync. This data will provide valuable insight into conservation planning and local decision-making.
Why It Matters:
The Impact of Volunteer Science
Since 2017, volunteers have captured and banded 1,325 birds from 31 different species!
This provides valuable data for studying and identifying individual birds, with five species captured more than fifty times, contributing to long-term avian research.
After nine years of fieldwork, we are beginning to answer some of our mid-term questions through the addition of a PhD thesis and postdoc research! The results from these two researchers, using data you helped gather, complement the papers included in the PhD thesis presented last year, which focused on describing insect communities along elevational gradient.
鈥Dr. Bernat Claramunt, Lead Scientist
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HOW YOU WILL HELP
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Monitor small mammals
Keep an eye on the health of vole, mouse, and shrew populations by capturing them, collecting measurements, and safely releasing them.
Track biodiversity
In each of the 12 sampling stations, you will check some of the more than 100 nest boxes for birds installed and monitor camera traps set up by the researchers.
Tree Growth Surveys
Assess the survival and growth of two species of planted pine trees and collect measurements on the growth rates of trees at various elevations.
In the late afternoon, the team will return to the hotel to rest, record data, and identify photos of animals taken by camera traps. Evenings will include a communal dinner and time to rest, visit local sites, or learn more about the research.
Field conditions and research needs can lead to changes in the itinerary and activities. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.
Highlights to Explore at this Destination
- Andorra la Vella: The capital city, known for its shopping, restaurants, and vibrant cultural scene
- Casa d'Areny-Plandolit: A historic mansion in Ordino, showcasing Andorra鈥檚 aristocratic heritage with exhibits on local history and culture.
- Mirador Roc Del Quer: A breathtaking viewpoint in Canillo offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Tristaina Sundial Balcony: A 2,701-meter-high viewpoint with stunning views, featuring a 27-meter sundial that honors the "solar mountain."
- La Massana: A charming town offering access to mountain activities and stunning views of the Pyrenees.
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FEEDBACK & QUESTIONS
11 Reviews on this Expedition
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