Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 11-24-2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
John Niedzwiecki
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Bird populations across North America have declined sharply in recent decades due to habitat loss, climate change, and changes in food availability. As bird numbers fall, ecosystems lose essential pollinators, seed dispersers, and insect predators. Long-term monitoring of bird populations is vital for understanding how environmental changes influence their survival and abundance. This study examines capture data from a long-term bird banding station at Percy Warner Nature Center in Nashville, Tennessee, focusing on five native species: Northern Cardinal (NOCA), American Robin (AMRO), American Goldfinch (AMGO), Tufted Titmouse (TUTI), and Carolina Chickadee (CACH), from fall 1983 to fall 2023. We analyzed the number of captures per trapping effort against time and average summer/fall temperature to identify long-term trends in capture rates that may indicate population health. Capture records collected using mist nets and ground traps were also analyzed to assess potential capture-method bias, evaluate how temperature and time affect capture success, and identify annual trends that may reflect shifts in abundance or behavior.We did not find a significant correlation between capture rates and either time or average temperature over the study period. However, we found differences among species in their likelihood of being caught by nets versus traps, with Tufted Titmice and Carolina Chickadees more likely to be captured in nets than other species. While there were no significant temporal or temperature-related trends observed, future studies could include additional climate variables to better assess potential impacts on native bird populations.
Recommended Citation
Donaldson, Essence; Hoskinson, Todd; and Niedzwiecki, John, "Surviving the Seasons: Climate and Time Effects on Native Songbirds" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 292.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/292
