Fieldwork finale

Now 14/15ths of the way through the fieldwork, I am in Nelson to complete the data collection. As usual for Nelson, we arrive to a barrage of rain but unperturbed, we head off into the bush to collect the leaves tagged earlier in the season. It is important at this stage to also ensure I have all of the basic information about each field site, i.e. predominant plant type, canopy height and bearings of transects.

Whilst up in the region I will be checking- up on the plants that I brought up earlier in the year. Concerned by the potential for plants to dry out in their pots I will be digging them into the ground to reduce the possibility of them dying due to water deficit rather than frost sensitivity.



The last research trip to Nelson involved a spontaneous falcon attack so we’re a little nervous about returning to this particular forest reserve, however my caterpillar collecting sheet acts as a rather handy shield against the territorial bird of prey.

Now, off to brave the wet and dangerous New Zealand bush!