Burton's trip to Ecuador

Rebecca Burton, student at University of Wyoming and 2011 graduate of Saratoga High School, was given the opportunity to go to Ecuador on a 10-day study abroad trip during her spring break this year.

The trip was a part of the course named Problems: Tropical Behavioral Ecology. According to Burton, "This field course immersed me in the tropical rainforest on the west slope of the Andes studying biodiversity, bird identification, and animal behavior. I learned to identify roughly 150 species of birds based on their appearance, behavior and calls."

This opportunity provided Burton with a newfound knowledge of the culture that will benefit her in the work force. "My enriched understanding of the diversity of animal behavior from this course will make me a better-rounded individual in the professional work field ... We may come from different parts of the world, but an appreciation and respect from wildlife unites us. I hope to use this common interest to interact with the public and relate to their values when it comes to managing wildlife populations."

Burton is very glad that she was given the opportunity to travel to Ecuador and the experience benefited her immensely. "Visiting Ecuador provided me with a greater appreciation of the biodiversity in Wyoming, as well as a new knowledge-base and appreciation for the biodiversity of Ecuador."