A Herping Adventure to Empower Education

IFSA LC Unhas (International Forestry Students’ Association Local Committee Universitas Hasanuddin) have the amazing opportunity to accommodate Rick Van Veen, a conservation expert with great interest in herpetology, especially Iguana. Rick has published dozens of publications about the conservation of herpetofauna, which excites the IFSA LC Unhas members for his visit. Rick’s visit lasted from 26th July 2023 until 5th of August 2023, in which he, and IFSA LC Unhas members went on an adventure to learn about the biodiversity behind the karst in Maros. 

Arrival and Planning for the Adventure

IFSA LC UNHAS members eagerly wait for Rick’s arrival in Sultan Hasanuddin Airport, Makassar, South Sulawesi. When we finally meet, hospitality comes from both sides. Rick with his enthusiastic tone and IFSA LC UNHAS’ warm Makassar welcome. After talking and introducing each other, we both immediately drove to Maros.

On the way to Maros, the karst formation also gave a warm welcome. The sight of Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park’s mountain caves and rice fields tried their best to impress everyone with their beauty. After arriving in Maros, we planned the adventure for tomorrow. All there is to do is to rest for tomorrow’s herping adventure. 

Herpetofauna and Wildlife Adventure

We started our adventure in the morning, planning to visit a couple of spots that people usually visit for herpetology activities. Both parties decided to spend 6 days in UNHAS’ forest education, and an additional 4 days in Maros.  On our way to the herping spots, we stopped by a hiking spot on top of a hill. It was a great bonding moment, taking pictures of the view and selfies with an extraordinary view of Maros’ beauty. We then continue their journey to the planned herping spots. 

When we arrived at the destined spot, we were lucky enough to encounter a couple of species and document it. We were able to introduce Rick to a couple of flora and fauna that we know, such as endemic birds and plants of South Sulawesi. In turn, Rick taught us about different concepts and ideas about Herpetofauna conservation.

What We Learned

In Between the trips, we would discuss nature conservation and the efforts one could make to protect the environment. Rick shared his insights on conservation in various countries as well as ideas to support herpetofauna conservation.

We would like to thank Rick for visiting Maros. IFSA LC UNHAS members were enlightened by Rick’s explanation about conservation as well as striking our interest about herpetofauna. We feel grateful to be able to explore the Maros forest with an expert, we hope we can welcome Rick again in the future. 

Written by : Esya Ariel Asyam Umarah

Pictures by : Hafidzh Assidiqie


Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *