Let's Get Down to Business to Discuss the Methods
On Thursday, April 30th, we started making more focused observations for data collection. These observations were mainly to test and figure out our methodology and data collection tables created by our MC, Harvey.
We started off the day in Briggs 158 in order to have a group oriented discussion regarding our methods and data tables. It was a very productive discussion. We read over Harvey's printed sheets and proposed data tables. We all asked questions, made suggestions, and came to consensus regarding the division of labor and behaviors we would take note of. The group decided that we would do 5 minute observations on a focal stilt. We would break unto groups of 4 with 2 observers and 2 notetakers, 1 notetaker per observer. 1 pair would focus on a Time Budget for the stilt, checking in every 30 seconds to mark what behavior was being done. The other pair would focus on the Foraging Rate, making tallies throughout 30 second intervals. The Time Budget notetaker would also be responsible for marking the distance and angle between the stilt and its nearest neighbor using the range finder. They would do this every minute.
First Trial of Observations!
We finally headed out to the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area around 11:20 AM and arrived at Lot F at 12:09 PM. We gathered our materials: data sheets, binoculars, compasses, range finders, clipboards, and clicker counters. We split into our groups and were off to make our first 5 minute trial observations with our sample methods. This was mainly to see if this methodology was feasible for actual data collection and a reasonable division of labor. It was also in order to see how well the data table categories worked. Afterwards, we broke for lunch and thought about potential improvements.
Revise, Rework, Redo
After lunch, the groups all came to together in a discussion lead by Harvey to see if we could make any changes or improvements to our methods. We all chimed in with what worked, what didn't work, and the minor adjustments we made during our observations.
The following suggestions/concerns were discussed:
- 4 per group worked
- Hard to estimate distance with the range finder
- Potentially having 1 pair work on Foraging Rate + Time Budget while the other measures Distances
- Switching observations times from 30 seconds to 1 minute
- Using phone compass app instead
- Use bins/categories as rough estimates for Distance to Nearest Neighbor
We decided to do 3 more observations from 1:40 PM to 2:30 PM including the previous suggestions. The main shift this time around was to only do observations in 1 minute intervals.
The Tactical Inquisitors Department
Back to campus we went to discuss more about our trial observations. Harvey shared a Google Doc with the class so that each group to discuss and add suggestions that may be useful for the next data collection day.
The first group consisted of Hannah, Tanya, Liana, and Lily. They suggested that distances might be easier to measure if we created categories like close, near, and far. They also potentially want to add a "Flying" behavior category to the Time Budget sheet.
The second group consisted of Taylor, Carissa, Sam, and Marshall. They suggested having 1 pair work on the distances while another pair focus on the time budget and foraging behaviors.
The third group consisted of Isabella, Ryan, Riley, and Heuijae. They suggested creating a new method for how to measure bird distances since the range finders were a but hard to use and not always the most accurate.
The fourth group consisted of Josie, Olivia, Samantha, and Harvey. The suggested having a more detailed plan for next time. They also suggested maybe doing 10 minute observations instead of 5 if we want to do 1 minute intervals instead.
We also potentially discussed purchasing more materials for next week. Ideas included: binocular stabilizers, more range finders, and chairs (specifically the chair bench).
The main issue that was focused on near the end was how to accurately measure distances. Some ideas were brought up. They included:
- Using maps to identify landmarks near the birds and calculating distances from there
- Using different range finders and having 1 person per group dedicated to this task
- Using rough estimation of distances in order to have continuous data
- Binning the distances into categories such as close, near, and far
So how did this debate end? What did our group ultimately decide on for this concern? Tune in next time to find out!
"In summation, it was not an unproductive day!"
Agenda for 5/4
Subject to change
10 AM: Meet in Briggs 158
10-10:20 AM: Vote on distance method
10:20-11:20 AM: More suggestions and improvements to finalize methodology
11:20-11:40 AM: Finalize data table categories
11:40-11:50 AM: Blogger (Olivia) briefs class
Thanks Harvey for all the data tables, methods, and for running such an intensive section today!
Bonus Misadventures!
Tanya almost stepped on a large invasive water snake.
Sam got covered in tiny spiders.
A wasp tried to sneak its way into Marshall's van during lunch.
A large spider (and I mean large) snuck onto the door of Marshall's van and then crawled into the side mirrors.
We all came back a little sunburnt.
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