Flown the coop ….

 

It is so hard to believe that my time at ARA is finished (at least for now). The last 8 weeks have just flown by. I will carry the experiences of this place with me forever and fully anticipate I will return next year. While here, I have to admit, I completely fell in love with three little chicks. These three (for a variety of reasons) were pulled from the nest (survival depended on it) and were raised in the nursery on site. I have had the privilege of being a part of their rearing (hand feeding, teaching to eat seeds, transitioning them to feeding themselves, watching them learn to fly) and I eagerly anticipate their release in the upcoming year.

These three have a special place in my heart. Will have to return next year for their release!

 

I have an especially soft spot for this little guy. He is the youngest of the three and I have named him Runty Runt (all of the chicks removed are essentially the “runts” of the clutch of eggs – he was even the smallest of them). He has thrived and is doing so well in the larger aviary. I cannot wait to see him take flight!

Runty Runt getting groomed

 

The work that the ARA Project does is simply amazing. For those of you that may be looking for an alternate gift idea for Christmas, I encourage considering a donation to this organization. In supporting this organization, not only would you be directly contributing to the success of this species, but you also help ensure the ongoing protection of primary rain forests and contribute to the reforestation/protection of critical tree species (i.e. the Mountain Almond tree). This is a front line organization with almost zero overhead, every dollar goes to supporting this critical work. You can find the page to donate here Donate Now and while you are there, I encourage you to explore the page to get a deeper understanding of this project.

So what next for me? Well, currently I have found a new roommate! I am spending some time chilling with Larry while I house sit for friends in Cocles.

Larry – my newest roommate!

 

My home for the last part of this trip to Costa Rica

I will be here for about 10 days and will spend my time relaxing, visiting with friends and preparing for my next adventure!!! Where is that you ask? I am headed to ECUADOR for the next 8 weeks!!! Here I will be volunteering with an organization called Planet Drum (you can check them out here (Planet Drum – Ecuador). Although I have not arrived yet (so still need to learn what my specific activities will be), this project is primarily reforestation/revegetation in a Dry Tropical Forest. So excited to both see Ecuador for the first time and to participate in the work of this organization!

I am super excited about my next adventure but am a little sad about closing the door on this one. I have had the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. I want to thank Emily and Enrique (the people who have made the Great Green Macaw project possible) for both their hospitality and for sharing their dream not only with us, but with the world (sorry we didn’t get a photo together – just another reason I need to come back!). Also an incredible thank you to Duaro, Mario and Tirza. Their dedication to this project is incredible and I have learned so much working with them! These young people are a shining example of how their generation is going to rectify the damage that we have sadly done to this planet. I am eternally grateful to you all and will hold you close to my heart forever.

Duaro

 

Mario

 

Tirza (with Beth and I at the Farmers Market)

There are several others who support the work up there and although I don’t have photos, want to send a thank you to them also. Maria Elena, Luis, Omar and Alejandro – thank you for everything!

And last but not least! To my ARA Children (HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA). You guys have been so much fun! I am sincerely going to miss our laughs and the general silliness. Please do keep in touch! I have faith our paths will cross again one day!

 

So much fun with these guys. Will miss you all so much (Lydia, Beth and Valentin)

Talk to you again when I am in Ecuador!!!

Love and light to you all!

Mary Lou

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