Hi my name is Shayne and I am a zoology student at Bangor University in North Wales.

I have been offered a once in a lifetime opportunity to join in on an educational field trip to South India with the University in September of this year.

Focusing most of our attention on the deciduous rainforests surrounding the Western Ghats mountain range, we will be visiting research stations and areas of significant biodiversity including the Nagarhole National Park and the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary.

During my time in this special place, not only do I aim to gain valuable skills in field work technique, but to gain insight into the plight of the inevitable human-wildlife conflict of India's ever expanding rural population and its resultant habitat loss - an issue close to my heart.

As one of the 8 "hottest" global biodiversity hotspots, southern India is home to some of the worlds most fascinating creatures including venomous snakes, lizards, frogs, turtles, tigers, bats, elephants and crocodiles to name a few. the opportunity to study these magnificent and vulnerable animals in their natural habitat is a dream come true!

This is where I need your help!

The trip can unfortunately not be completely subsidized and the cost associated with a trip of this nature can be substantial. As a full time student, my funds are very limited and I would also not be able to perform my part time self employed work as a music teacher while away. The loss of income over this period and the unavoidable associated costs would mean that without your help an opportunity like this would simple be out of my reach.

Every little bit helps and any donation no matter how big or small would be appreciated more than you know!

Thank you for taking the time to read my story

With love and gratitude..

Shayne