By Tia Ravara
July 12, 2024
Introduction
I have been a part of the Long-Term Study on the California Ground Squirrel at Briones Regional Park for about a year and a half year. I’ve learned three main challenges that field researchers face.
3 main challenges that field researchers face
1. Prevention of the collection of data due to the weather
From my experience, there have been times when I was unable to do field research because of the weather. Rain, heat, and fire/fire warnings are all examples that have hindered my field research in the past. Rain can damage paper with data, expensive equipment, and prevent squirrels from coming out of their burrows. Heat and fire/fire warnings can be extremely dangerous conditions to work in. If we are trapping squirrels, the squirrels can overheat and die. As field researchers, it can be dangerous for us to work in hot conditions for long periods of time because we are at risk of heat stroke.
Throughout the week, we check the weather forecast and the park information for any updates. When it begins to rain, we turn off and unplug anything that can spark, cover the equipment, and gather it under a dry area. We have to work to ensure that we can protect the equipment. When it is forecasted to be 95 °F or over, we will not go into the field. Instead, we will analyze the data collected, read and research previous findings, or do lab data entry. For days that are between 90-94 °F, we do observations of the squirrels instead of trapping them.
2. Working with wild animals
Wild animals may look cute, but there are times when their survival instincts will kick in and attack you or someone around you.
In order to prevent this, we have to take multiple precautions including handling procedures, wearing the proper attire like rubber boots, long pants, and gloves. Rubber boots provide a protective layer against rattle snakes bites in case they try to bite you. Long pants shield your legs from poison oak, bugs, and other dangers. When handling squirrels, it is important to wear gloves because they will bite you if they are agitated.
3. Exhaustion in the field
Field days start at 7:50 AM until about 4 PM. There are two field sites named Crow and Paradise that are differentiated based on the amount of human activity that occurs in the environment. Both field sites at first glance don’t seem like large areas. However, when you constantly walk around, kneel, carry equipment, and write down data, it can be exhausting. Even as an athlete, I am at risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
In order to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke, we need to constantly fuel our bodies and take breaks. I first start the day with a high protein breakfast and pack my lunch with plenty of healthy snacks, waters, and sports drinks that I eat and drink throughout the day. Wearing the correct clothing, including lightweight water-resistant clothing and hats will help regulate your body temperature. Wearing sunscreen is also important for preventing sunburn which further causes dehydration. We also take turns when we go out into the field. About half of us go into the field, while the other half stays in the shade to rest and take down data.
Conclusion
There are many more challenges that field researchers face. However, it is important to stay flexible and adapt to situations in field research because there will always be challenges that occur.
Comments