This post delves into my experiences during this initial data-gathering phase in module 3, the challenges I faced, and the insights I gained.
Implementation of Sampling Strategy
The strategy involved systematic point counts at three sites—Riverside Park, Peterson Creek, and Kenna Cartwright Park—each representing different levels of urbanization for 30 minutes per site. The observations were scheduled early in the morning to ensure optimal bird activity and minimal human interference. The initial phase has been both enlightening and challenging, providing a solid foundation for the ongoing analysis of how urban environments influence bird populations.
Challenges Encountered:
Bad Clothing choices: This might seem comical but the days I had worn something dark coloured like black or grey. My data collection count was low, to the point I was debating if i had chosen the wrong project. Fortunately, I was able to correct this mistake of mine early on during the data collection process and wore neutral or muted-coloured clothes that somehow camouflaged with my surroundings which led to me being able to observe an array of bird species from my observation point.
Timing and Logistics: Coordinating the transition between sites proved challenging, especially ensuring I arrived at each location within the optimal time window for bird activity. The logistics of moving from one park to another, considering traffic and necessary preparation time at each site, required precise timing.
Environmental Factors: Weather variability poses occasional difficulties, particularly unexpected rain, which can affect bird behaviour and visibility. Adapting to these conditions on the fly was necessary to maintain the integrity of the data collection process.
Surprising Data
The diversity and abundance of birds at Kenna Cartwright Park were surprisingly high compared to preliminary expectations since I was not able to find any surprising bird species here during my first few visits. This site, being the least urbanized, showcased a rich array of species, some of which are not typically observed in more developed areas. The contrast in species observed at the urban and natural sites was more pronounced than anticipated, which provided compelling insights into the impact of urbanization. The data from Riverside Park also shocked me a bit because of the high amount of bird abundance it showcased.
Reflections and Modifications
Given the effectiveness of the point count method in capturing a broad spectrum of data across the urbanization gradient, I plan to continue with this technique. However, a few adjustments are necessary:
Extended Observation Windows: To better accommodate environmental variables and unexpected delays, extending the observation windows by 15 minutes might provide more flexibility and reduce the rush between sites.
Weather Contingency Planning: Implementing alternative dates for data collection in case of adverse weather will ensure the consistency and reliability of the data.