Lost in translation: update from SMNP

Research on wild primates is an amazing process of discovery. The monkeys act out little parts in a cosmic soap opera that serves as the background to your dissertation research. While gelada social interactions form the basis of my research, interchanges with fellow language-using primates provide much need comic relief during my time out here. [...]

Back in the Simien Mountains

Hello all! This is my first post since arriving in the Simien Mountains National Park (SMNP), Ethiopia two weeks ago. Over the next two months, I will update BA&BHB with information gleaned from my pilot research on bachelor geladas living in all-male units here in SMNP. The past few weeks have been extremely busy–learning new [...]

New theme

Hi all. I’ve switched themes just in time for this summer’s fieldwork. Look for updates from Ethiopia in the coming weeks (and maybe some other commentary in the meantime). For now, a view of the beautiful Simien Mountains.
 

A year (almost) in the field

My friend and colleague’s final essay in Nature’s post-doc journal has been published this week. You can read the summary of her research and reflections on nearly a year of fieldwork studying the behavior of wild geladas (Theropithecus gelada) in the chilly highlands of Ethiopia by following this link.

Fourth of July, Ethiopian-style (originally published 7-1-08)

Well, my time in the field is winding down and there is no better way to celebrate the end of a successful season than blowing up some fireworks, grilling hamburgers (or in my hometown sweet Italian sausage), and drinking ice-cold beer. However, I am in Ethiopia and do not have access to fireworks, hamburgers, or [...]