Investigating the Avian Species Composition, Diversity, and Abundance of Engelhorn Pond
Document Type
Oral Presentation
Campus where you would like to present
Ellensburg
Event Website
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/source
Start Date
18-5-2020
Abstract
Central Washington University’s Engelhorn Pond contains important habitats for many organisms, particularly migratory birds, and is a valuable resource for students. However, little information is available about the wildlife inhabiting the pond. The pond’s discrete location means that many people are unaware of its existence. In addition, the pond is threatened by a number of anthropogenic sources, including garbage, chemical runoff, and feral cats. By using point counts, a common ornithological survey technique, I recorded the bird species present at the pond during all seasons of the year. I collected data using point counts during 13 visits from June of 2019 to March of 2020. I made 13 additional visits to the pond to take photographs and make observations from April of 2019 to February of 2020. I found that at least 70 bird species were present at Engelhorn Pond. During my surveys, I took photographs and created sketches, which I have used to compile a field guide for the public to use. This guide will serve as an important resource for students, teachers, and other pond visitors. My goal is for this guide to raise awareness of the pond and increase the number of visitors to this hidden gem. In addition, I hope that my project will spur more effective management and conservation practices at the pond.
Recommended Citation
Rose, Kiana, "Investigating the Avian Species Composition, Diversity, and Abundance of Engelhorn Pond" (2020). Symposium Of University Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 15.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/source/2020/COTS/15
Department/Program
Biological Sciences
Additional Mentoring Department
https://cwu.studentopportunitycenter.com/2020/04/investigating-the-avian-species-composition-diversity-and-abundance-of-engelhorn-pond/
Investigating the Avian Species Composition, Diversity, and Abundance of Engelhorn Pond
Ellensburg
Central Washington University’s Engelhorn Pond contains important habitats for many organisms, particularly migratory birds, and is a valuable resource for students. However, little information is available about the wildlife inhabiting the pond. The pond’s discrete location means that many people are unaware of its existence. In addition, the pond is threatened by a number of anthropogenic sources, including garbage, chemical runoff, and feral cats. By using point counts, a common ornithological survey technique, I recorded the bird species present at the pond during all seasons of the year. I collected data using point counts during 13 visits from June of 2019 to March of 2020. I made 13 additional visits to the pond to take photographs and make observations from April of 2019 to February of 2020. I found that at least 70 bird species were present at Engelhorn Pond. During my surveys, I took photographs and created sketches, which I have used to compile a field guide for the public to use. This guide will serve as an important resource for students, teachers, and other pond visitors. My goal is for this guide to raise awareness of the pond and increase the number of visitors to this hidden gem. In addition, I hope that my project will spur more effective management and conservation practices at the pond.
https://digitalcommons.cwu.edu/source/2020/COTS/15
Faculty Mentor(s)
Alison Scoville