Mason Avelar, Espee Calvillo, Lord Forde, & Dr. Allison Alvarado
Abstract
One of the largest compounding factors of avian biodiversity decline is the loss of natural habitat in the face of urban development. Riparian habitats are some of the most important locations for a variety of kinds of birds, in part due to the presence of water, and efforts are being made to restore and rebuild these highly productive areas. To understand the importance of naturalized riparian spaces and the impact of human activity on local avian biodiversity in the Camarillo area of Southern California, we will be recording and comparing species abundance and diversity between a restored area (Long Grade Creek on the CSUCI campus) and a cultivated area (Sterling Hills golf course). We hypothesize that fewer species will be found in cultivated areas, even when water is present, and that despite much overlap in species composition, the two locations will support some different taxa. Data will be collected via bi-weekly, early-morning point counts documenting 5-7 points across each area. Specifically, our prediction is that higher abundance and diversity overall will be found at the naturalized location adjacent to campus. We will discuss 1) the potential drivers underlying any differences and 2) the value associated with both restored riparian zones and urban landscapes for wildlife.
Details
Session 1
11:15am – 12:30pm
Del Norte Hall
Room D: 1530
HSI-SMART
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