We have a sequence of events that we try to follow when bringing in new interns. First, we introduce them to the city, and second, we introduce them to the panda base. We do the first two as low-keyed half days, but on the third day we spend about 10 hours at Bifengxia learning the layout of the base and getting familiar with iPads collecting practice trials. This has done us well and is the best way to battle the lingering fatigue, but it also gives everyone a chance to see what PDXWildlife is all about.
Learning panda behaviors takes a good deal of dedication. Especially when you have to juggle four different projects covering 30 bears and two different cities. The logistics of it are a bit discombobulating, but with a bit of patience and humor, the grand picture of increasing panda bear reproductive success becomes clear. I’m very excited to be working with Hailey, Doireann, Nicole & Bryan, as they are a relaxed and knowledgeable group. They are keen to ask all the right questions when I seem to leave something out. For my forgetful brain, this is much appreciated.
In the next few weeks, everyone will be putting some miles on both the iPads and their tennis shoes, going from one side of the base to the next. But, by the end of their internship, they will all be trained and proficient at collecting behavioral research. Not to mention a decent amount of Chinese and a lifetime of memories.
Outside the police station where everyone is required to register.
