Predator or Prey?

On our very last plot survey yesterday, my keen eyesight and visual scanning techniques paid off. I was the first to spot the top predator of these swamps basking not 5 meters away from our position; the alligator. We were able to complete our plot, collect several caterpillars, then retreat back to the safety of out transport van. All in a days work out in the field. 

This morning we spent a couple of hours breaking down the field station, cleaning out the bunkhouse, and transporting about 500 caterpillars back to Tulane University here in New Orleans. I am back at the Parkview Guesthouse for the last two days of this expedition. We meet back at the lab for a final "zoo" session tomorrow, and final conferences and debriefing.

I'll post some final pictures of out last days and look forward to seeing you all back in Schodack on Tuesday morning.