ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

The Amazon rainforest, a region of staggering biodiversity, holds many mysteries. With over 400 mammal species, 1,300 bird species, and millions of insects, it is the most diverse area on Earth. This course offers a chance to explore the Peruvian Amazon firsthand with the incredible work of under the direction of Dr. Ursula Valez and with the support of Ruth and Kenney at , our local hosts. You'll work with researchers and local communities to study tropical biodiversity, including avian research, agroforestry in plant communities, and witness the positive impacts of human restoration efforts. Students will live sustainably, walking to and from field sites whenever possible.

A typical day on this EE course includes exploration and hiking in the local environment, instructor and student-led discussions of key course topics, presentations, and engagement with local community experts, and time for inquiry investigations and journal writing. Prior to and following the field experience in Peru, students will complete coursework via Canvas, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University's learning management system, as they apply experiences at home.

*** If you're interested in Amazon: Avian & Tropical Ecology for Summer 2026, . This option is ideal for anyone needing Continuing Education Units or additional graduate credits, those with previous Master's experiences, or Dragonfly alums. We offer a limited number of spots (up to 6) for non-Master's candidates in most of our EE courses. An undergraduate degree is required. ***

Center for Conservation Science and Education, Tambopata

The Center is situated on a scenic bend in the Tambopata River, a few miles from the town of Puerto Maldonado in southeastern Peru. Much of the area around the town has been transformed by development, but the bend still includes extensive native forest linked by green corridors along the Tambopata River to the unbroken virgin forest that stretches south for hundreds of miles.

The Center’s long-term goal is to document the area’s rich fauna and flora and to track changes in species composition and abundance as urban development encroaches on the southwestern Amazon region. As part of this goal, the Center conducts an extensive bird monitoring research project using mist nets (ground/canopy) to capture, color-band and release species, while Bal-chatri traps are used to capture raptors.

(Course locations are subject to change.)

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