On the plane to Costa Rica—the adventure begins! photo by Fran Whitlock
Florida Museum of Natural History Family Rainforest Camp, First Journey to Costa Rica and Selva Verde
A photo essay by Fran Whitlock and John A. Gregory
In June, Florida Museum of Natural History staff led the inaugural Family Rainforest Camp at Selva Verde Lodge, joined by young campers and their families from the US. Campers took part in workshops and a BioBlitz, and they used technology to share their experiences with museum campers back in Florida.
Among the participants was Fran Whitlock CTC, a long-time travel consultant for Holbrook Travel. But she wasn’t alone! Joined by her partner John Gregory and granddaughter Jaylee, Fran and her family of three set off for the family adventure of a lifetime.
Take a look at their story, told in images, below.
Hiking in the Rainforest at Selva Verde photo by John A. Gregory
Wildlife sightings, up-close and personal...
Eyelash Viper
photo by John A. Gregory
Three-toed Sloth
photo by John A. Gregory
Connecting with local students at a school in Sarapiquí
photo by John A. Gregory
Searching for frogs in the forest
photo by Fran Whitlock
Sharing discoveries with campers back in Florida
photo by Fran Whitlock
Getting hands-on experience with chocolate making—from fruit to final product
photo by Fran Whitlock
Standing inside the center of a tree
photo by Fran Whitlock
Reforestation project: campers doing their part in planting trees
photo by Fran Whitlock
“The reforestation project was a favorite for parents and children alike. After listening to Willy Pineda’s talk on the biological corridor the campers understood the significance of this work for maintaining this important area and were grateful for the opportunity to help. The only downside was walking and working in the heat,” noted Fran.
Getting a microscopic look at specimens found in the forest
photo by Fran Whitlock
Nocturnal hikes in the rainforest
photo by John A. Gregory
Happy Campers!
photo by Fran Whitlock