From the smallest insects to the largest reptiles and mammals, the upper Amazon River basin is a plethora of diverse species. This point was driven home today on our walk in the verzea Yanallpa Forest, where we encountered insects of all sizes and shapes.

Our exploration of the Rio El Dorado yielded many delights, including fishing for piranha and watching common squirrel monkeys. The highlight of the night was our grand caiman adventure. In total darkness, we found and photographed caimans suspended at the river’s surface as they searched for food. They were easy to spot with our search light, as their eyes glow red and can be seen from several yards away. To top off the evening, we came home under an absolutely magical Southern Cross and the constellation of Scorpio!