Starting Off 2025 with a New Cohort of UG Final-Year Researchers at Sophia Point
January 2025 updates…
We began 2025 on a high note at Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre by welcoming a brilliant cohort of final-year students from the University of Guyana, each undertaking their independent research projects as part of their degree studies.
Over several weeks, these young researchers worked tirelessly in the field, gaining hands-on experience and making meaningful contributions to our understanding of Guyana’s rainforest biodiversity.
Calix Bernard focused on the diversity of snakes at Sophia Point.
Kimani Allen explored fish species in the Essequibo River surrounding Sophia Point.
Sasha Singh studied the diversity of butterflies across the site.
Falicai Monderson and Alesa Hinds both undertook studies on the diversity of bats, building a stronger picture of our nocturnal wildlife.
These students showed exceptional dedication, putting in long hours in the field, often under challenging conditions. They worked closely with the Sophia Point Rangers, whose guidance and field knowledge helped ensure a successful first research season. The spirit of collaboration and mutual support among the students was truly inspiring.
We are excited to welcome them back for their second field season and look forward to seeing their final research projects published—important contributions not only to Sophia Point but to the broader understanding of biodiversity in the Guyanese rainforest.
Special thanks to our Trustee Dr. Priya Maharaj, Director of the Centre for the Study of Biological Diversity at the University of Guyana, for facilitating these projects, and to each of the students’ supervisors for their guidance and support.
