BTO House Martin Survey

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MarkF
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BTO House Martin Survey

Post by MarkF »

The BTO are looking for house martin survey volunteers.

http://www.bto.org/volunteer-surveys/ho ... H8,BJABP,1

to quote:

We know surprisingly little about House Martins despite the fact that they breed alongside us, using our houses on which to build a nest made of hundreds of beakfuls of mud.

Critically, we do not know why this species is in rapid decline in the UK. Currently, it is ‘Amber listed’ in the Birds of Conservation Concern listings, compiled by the UK’s leading conservation agencies.

Why survey House Martins now?

We need to discover more about House Martins to help us identify why they are declining and provide scientific evidence to help inform policy decisions that could reverse the declines.

The House Martin survey over the next two years will collect more information on population size, breeding ecology and habitat preferences, so we can begin to tackle some key questions about this eagerly awaited summer visitor.

A survey in two parts

In 2015 the nationwide random square survey will involve volunteers visiting 2,000 – 3,000 ‘random’ (i.e. pre-selected) 1-km squares throughout the UK. By surveying random squares we can produce a robust population estimate to monitor future changes. Find out more about what the 2015 House Martin Count Survey involves, and request a square to survey.

In 2016 the Nest Monitoring Study will involve volunteers making regular observations at individual nests to collect information about nesting activity. This study will be ideal for observers who have nests on their home or place of work including those who contributed to the 2009-13 survey. Find out more about what the 2016 House Martin Nest Monitoring Study involves, and register your interest to participate.
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