When conducting a research project or participating in data collection, oftentimes what we’re most interested in is the results compiled at the end. However, the means to the end is arguably just as important as the final result, as the method has a large impact on what those results may be, or how we interpret them.
For most bird studies, for example, we can derive a lot of information from simple observational methods. The most well known method for bird sampling is point counts, where you stand at designated points for a set period of time throughout various times in the week. This is an effective, and amateur-friendly method of creating a species list for your area. Another method that is highly effective is doing walking transects, which includes walking a certain distance or for a certain amount of time, and noting the birds you see within the transect.
As mentioned, since both of these methods achieve a desirable result (being able to write down the birds observed), it may seem too nuanced to say that one method is more effective than the other. Yet, though you may be able to collect bird data either way, is it possible one of these methods is more successful?
Researching birds is one of the more popular projects that get completed at Cloudbridge. While there’s quite a substantial learning curve to gain skill in spotting and identifying birds, afterwards it becomes a relatively straightforward project. Even though many researchers come to study the birds at the reserve, we’ve yet to see a project that shows if there are significant differences in data collection methodologies. That is, until researcher Miri Tovar Heid decided to compare the point count method and walking transect method side by side, and see if one can be deemed as “better” than the other. After 180 very rigorous surveys completed, she was able to determine that there indeed is a more effective method for surveying birds here at Cloudbridge. Be sure to read her report here and see which methodology was the success.
Additional Reading:
- You may notice above that none of Miri’s surveys were in the afternoon. Why? Birds are typically most active during the early morning, and take part in the “dawn chorus” at the earliest hours. There are many theories why this may be, but luckily for us, we can just sit back and listen either way.
- It can be quite overwhelming to dip your toes into the birding world, as there are thousands of species across the globe. There’s a step-by-step suggested guide for beginners (from the perspective of teachers helping their students), but it’s helpful for anyone!
- To get started birding, there’s a helpful list of equipment that can make your life a little bit easier when you’re a beginner. Keep in mind that these are just suggestions, and you can always start smaller before amping up the gear that you have.