I’m originally from the municipality of Bavispe, Sonora. I am currently studying for a degree in Biology at the Universidad de la Sierra in Moctezuma, Sonora. I began volunteering with Sky Island Alliance reviewing remote cameras in September 2023 when I started my university studies.
As a volunteer, I helped review remote cameras near Moctezuma. There, the photographs captured of the animals began to catch my attention, as well as the beautiful landscapes. I am currently an intern at Sky Island Alliance and I collaborate in reviewing remote cameras, classifying photos, identifying species, and uploading monthly surveys for the FotoFauna project.
I go on field trips each month with Miguel Enríquez, who taught me how a remote camera works and the information you get from it. From the first trip, I enjoyed spending time with more people and learning from each one. One of the experiences I enjoyed most was when I went with Miguel to a ranch in Cananea and met more people and saw other landscapes, and we supported Sky Island Alliance activities. I really enjoyed that field trip because I learned the names of plants and we worked as a team. That way, when you don’t understand something, there are people with more knowledge who can teach you.
By collaborating on the FotoFauna project, I learned how to install a remote camera and how important monitoring is, since it helps us learn about the animals that live in that area. For me it’s been a great experience and is something I enjoy doing. I would definitely advise other students to participate since it’s a very beautiful experience. You learn a lot and it helps you grow more as a biology student.