Comparison of methods for assessing species diversity and abundance of bird populations in wetlands
Full title: Comparison of methods for assessing species diversity and abundance of bird populations in wetland habitats
Field of study: Zoology
Supervisor: Mgr. Marie Kotasová Adámková, Ph.D.
Official entry:
Assessing the species diversity and abundance of different animal groups is crucial for monitoring the ecological status of habitats and the state of biodiversity. Various methods are used to collect data, based on the approaches of capturing animals, observing them, direct acoustic monitoring, tracking whereabouts, and monitoring using various recording devices. However, different animal groups, like different habitats, have their own characteristics that make certain monitoring methods more or less suitable. Birds are a commonly studied animal group in the context of site ecological condition, for which there are several different methods for data collection and analysis. These vary in their effectiveness, accuracy, and practicality.
The objective of the bachelor's thesis will be to: (i) review literature reviews that address methods for assessing species diversity and abundance of bird populations in natural habitats; (ii) conduct acoustic monitoring in a model wetland; (iii) conduct monitoring in the form of bird ringing catches; and (iv) conduct a comparison of species composition and abundance of populations from data sets obtained using line mapping, acoustic monitoring, and data obtained using the bird ringing catch method. The outcome of the work will be a comparison of data collection methods, an evaluation of their accuracy, and the development of recommendations for monitoring birds in wetlands.
A basic knowledge of ornithology and avian ecology, diligence in processing large amounts of data from recording equipment, basic statistical skills for data analysis, and the ability to think critically and compare different methods are expected.