Mike Salisbury, UR - Data, Data Everywhere

Whew -- this semester has been flying by. I began collecting data on October 12^th, and so far the results have been really interesting.  Here are two graphs that illustrate last week’s data:

What does this data show us?  Let’s do a quick recap of my scientific question for this project: “How do anthropogenic disturbances alter bird species number and diversity on Volusia County beaches?”   

Here are a few observations/interpretive statements based on last week’s graphs:

1. Shorebirds prefer a beach with less anthropogenic disturbances; shorebirds are more common at Site C, compared to Sites A and B (20, 2 and 2, respectively). This could be a problem, as many shorebirds are beach-nesters (piping plovers, snowy plovers, etc.). These birds are an important part of the coastal ecosystem. Here is a link to a video that provides some general information on ecosystems
2. Gulls/terns prefer locations where there are anthropogenic food sources (feeding).  I noticed gulls/terns aren't as sensitive to disturbances, compared to shorebirds. This means they will risk more to feed.  
3. Adults are responsible for more than 50% of total disturbances at each site. There are signs on Volusia County beaches that provide information on sea turtle nesting/anthropogenic disturbance. Is it time for bird nesting/anthropogenic disturbance signs?  

Together, these graphs provide a lot of useful information; I’m excited to see the final results.

How I feel each semester around midterms ♫