Week 1 Update!

 

Our field season has started! We arrived in Belize on May 22, and by the next day we were at La Milpa, clearing the terrace we will be targeting for excavation. This terrace is located within 150m from the back of Structures 2 and 3, two of the largest ceremonial temple structures in La Milpa.

Since then, we set up our units and started our excavations of the terrace. Excavations are proceeding at a very quick pace, thanks to the amazing crew we have excavating alongside us. Sediment collection for phytolith and radiocarbon analysis is likewise progressing quickly, and over the space of two days we collected 32 5l sediment bags for Tom to float at the PfBAP lab – that will sure keep him busy for a month (or two).

While excavations and sediment collection have been relatively uneventful, we nonetheless have our share of field excitement. A wild oscillated turkey that lives in the forest between camp and La Milpa has decided he does not like our trucks, and waits in ambush every time we drive back and forth from camp to La Milpa. We have so far evaded his flying attacks, but we will keep you posted on the status of our new-found antagonist.