2013 grasshopper discovery prompts new opportunities in Belize. 

During the January 2013 Biological Field Studies course a previously unrecorded genus of grasshopper was discovered on one of the jungle hikes.  See http://ricochetscience.com/birdwing_grasshopper/ for more details about the discovery.  This experience shows the amazing opportunities that await participants on any of the Belize Adventures trips.

The trip provides an opportunity to hike through the rainforest, explore Mayan ruins, and discover new species while earning college credit.  Experience firsthand one of the most unique biomes on the planet through our Belize Adventures study abroad program.  For participants who want the experience but do not need the college credit, participation is possible through the International Community Education program.

Join LLCC biology professor Dave Cox on an exciting biological field studies trip to Belize on January 3-8, 2014.  The 2014 tentative itinerary includes: several jungle hikes to explore the biodiversity and medicinal plants of the rainforest, cave exploration to learn about Xibalba (the Mayan underworld), stream ecology or orchid conservation research, visiting Mayan ruins and free time in San Ignacio where you will be able to experience the local culture and shop for authentic Belizean crafts.

• Trip dates:  January 3-8, 2014
• Expected cost: $1,695 (depending on airfare) plus tuition (Biology 209 3 credits) 
•                          $1,845 (depending on airfare) International Community Education (non-academic)
• Trip cost includes:  Airfare, roundtrip transportation to/from airports, room and board, all entrance fees and guide services while in Belize
• Additional expenses:  Passport, departure tax (approximately $39.50 per person), travel insurance (if desired), one dinner in San Ignacio, souvenirs and spending money.

Biology 209 is a hybrid course.  Several components of the course will be completed online prior to the trip; the research will be completed while in Belize; the rest of the academic component will be completed online once we return.  There is only one face-to-face meeting on campus prior to the trip.  The online components require reliable internet access.  If you are interested in the Belize Adventure trip but do not need the academic credits, please contact Dave Cox to discuss participation through the College's International Community Education program.  Space is limited to 20 participants (last day to register is December 1, 2013 or when all spots are filled) so don't wait to sign up!

Steps to enroll for the January 3-8, 2014 Belizean Adventure (last day to register is December 1, 2013 or until the spots are filled):

1. Contact Professor Cox by email at Dave.Cox@llcc.edu or 217.786.4909 to secure your spot with the required $300 deposit.
2. Register for BIO 209-HYSA
3. Begin the academic portion of the course.  The majority of the academic portion of the course is conducted online.  Once enrolled, students will have access to the online materials.  A computer with internet access is needed for the online portion of the course.
4. Trip participants must have a valid U.S. Passport
5. Get ready for an adventure that must be experienced to be believed!

Space is limited to 20 participants!