Dinner with John and Jimma was really nice the other night. They are very friendly people and Jimma is a wonderful cook. We had fresh organic pecans, homemade bread, fresh spinach from the garden, and roast wild boar that John hunted. Some of the neighbors joined us and they were equally as friendly. I think I received 2 or 3 offers to stay in various homes and come swimming in water holes. Texans are extraordinarily welcoming and very social, atleast the ones I have met.

Last night was very unsuccessful, we only caught 2 bats the whole night. We ended up leaving early because Veronica (one of the researchers) slammed her finger in the car door and her finger was in pretty bad shape. On the up side, it meant I was able to get a full 6 hours of sleep today! We usually head out to the field around 7:30pm, set up the mist-nets, and then open them around 8:45pm when the sun is setting and start catching bats. Then we return to the "house" around 7 am, do a bit of work until 8am and then sleep until 2pm and start doing some more work.

Two nights ago was a very successful evening. We went to an organic orchard down the road and caught 23 bats! I got to see my first red bat! They have beautiful golden, red fur and red and black wings, but they tend to be very feisty and make an intimidating hissing noise. I have been bit once or twice, so I am very happy that I have had my rabies vaccines! It doesn't hurt too much because their teeth are very tiny, but it is a bit uncomfortable and a little startling.

We are hoping to head into town today and buy some food supplies and get away from the orchard for bit. I am going to head out and check some of the insect traps and maybe see the river!

Much love,
Lauren