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National Geographic “Dream Team” dives in to Guyana’s biodiversity

National Geographic “Dream Team” dives in to Guyana’s biodiversity
Originally posted at National Geographic, October 28, 2013

Today, an international team arrived in southern Guyana, near the boarder with Brazil, to conduct a rapid biological assessment of the Rupununi Savannah, a sprawling tropical grassland peppered with rock outcroppings and forested mountains. Sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) with assistance from Global Wildlife Conservation (GWC), our expedition will spend the next couple weeks capturing a snapshot of the immense biodiversity that occurs in this poorly known region.

Map courtesy of National Geographic Maps

Our group has about 35 people, including scientists, students from the University of Guyana, and support staff (a cook, drivers, representatives from local indigenous peoples). We have 10 scientific teams covering a broad array of biodiversity: large mammals, small mammals, fishes, amphibians and reptiles, birds, plants, aquatic insects, ants, water quality, and indigenous resource use (I’m in charge of the aquatic insects).

After assembling in Georgetown, we flew down to Lethem this morning, Tomorrow, we’ll load up into large Bedford trucks (so we can ford the rivers) and head out into the savannah to our first site at the foot of the Kusad Mountains.

Photograph: Tommaso Giarrizzo/WWF. A ‘vegetarian’ piranha (Tometes camunani) – Para, Brazilian Amazon The strictly herbivorous fish inhabits rocky rapids where its main source of food, Podostemaceae aquatic herbs, is found. However, dam projects and mining activity are threatening the health and flow of its river habitat.

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure this Holiday Season: Explore the Wild Guianas!

Dreaming of an escape that combines rich history, breathtaking natural wonders, and vibrant cultural experiences? Look no further! We’ve just launched an exclusive last-minute holiday package that whisks you away to the lesser-explored gems of South America: Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. Prepare for an exhilarating 9-day journey that promises discovery, indulgence, and memories to last a

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Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure this Holiday Season: Explore the Wild Guianas!

Dreaming of an escape that combines rich history, breathtaking natural wonders, and vibrant cultural experiences? Look no further! We’ve just launched an exclusive last-minute holiday package that whisks you away to the lesser-explored gems of South America: Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. Prepare for an exhilarating 9-day journey that promises discovery, indulgence, and memories to last a

Read More »

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Shamir Khan

Driver/Office Assistant

Shamir Khan
Shamir Khan

Shamir Khan hails from Yupukari, a small village in the central Rupununi region of Guyana. With deep ties to his community, he has served as a prominent figure, including roles as a tour guide and a member of the Board of Directors for Caiman House Incorporated. His leadership experience also includes serving as Toshao, the chief of his village, where he played a pivotal role in community development and cultural preservation.

Currently, Shamir works as a driver and office assistant at Wilderness Explorers, where he continues to promote eco-tourism and connect visitors with the natural beauty of his homeland. An avid fisherman, Shamir cherishes opportunities to engage with nature, reflecting his commitment to the environment and traditional practices. 

Shamir Khan

Driver/Office Assistant

Shamir Khan
Get in Touch with Shamir Khan
Kim Chong

Accounts Assistant

Get in Touch with Kim Chong
Kim Chong
Accounts Assistant
Kim Chong
Kim is an accounts assistant working for WE in our Georgetown office. With a passion for adventure, she loves exploring nature and observing wildlife, which fuels her enthusiasm for the industry. Though she has been in the tourism sector for less than a year, Kim is eager to immerse herself fully in this dynamic field. Her dedication to her work and her love for travel inspire her to contribute meaningfully to the company’s mission of creating unforgettable experiences for travelers.
Kim Chong

Accounts Assistant

Get in Touch with Kim Chong