Big data has become a crucial tool in conservation efforts, offering innovative ways to inspire public support and inform ecological management strategies. One notable example is eBird in Action, a segment showcasing conservation success stories made possible through user contributions.
Accurately determining bird populations in specific areas can be challenging, especially for species that are elusive or occupy large territories, such as marsh birds, raptors, and waterbirds. Traditional surveys to estimate bird abundance and population trends are often expensive and labor-intensive, prompting conservation agencies to seek more cost-effective solutions.
To address these challenges, conservation agencies are exploring the use of participatory science data from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s eBird program. In the Great Lakes Region of Canada, scientists from Birds Canada compared intensive marsh bird survey results with data from the Breeding Bird Survey and eBird. Similarly, researchers in Washington State studied Common Loons (Gavia immer), comparing their monitoring data with eBird entries to determine the most accurate population estimates.
Both studies provided strong evidence that combining participatory science data with traditional sources enhances conservation and management strategies. Birds Canada scientists found that integrating data from intensive surveys, the Breeding Bird Survey, and eBird improved the precision of population trends for 11 of the 18 marsh bird species examined. In Washington State, eBird observations, combined with data from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, significantly improved understanding of Common Loon distribution and population.
Observations from participatory scientists play a vital role in understanding bird abundance and distribution patterns, which are essential for developing effective conservation plans. This research highlights the potential of integrated datasets as a promising avenue for safeguarding bird populations and the health of our ecosystems.
By leveraging big data and community involvement, tools like eBird are revolutionizing bird conservation, making it more efficient, accurate, and impactful.
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