Citizen Science and Recording Wildlife - Topic 4 (Biodiversity), Element 4 Flashcards
What is citizen science?
Citizen science is when non-professionals are involved in biological recording and other observational data gathering.
Citizen science projects gather a wide variety of data and contribute to different areas of research, including conservation.
What is a species survey?
A species survey records the species in a particular area, sometimes recording their abundance too.
Surveys can be comprehensive or focused on particular species.
What are three different types of species surveys?
- Site survey
- Partial site survey
- Grid squares
- Checking nest boxes or burrows
- Recording distinctive signs
- Timed surveys
Who typically conducts species surveys?
Professional ecologists, botanists, entomologists, ornithologists, and mycologists.
These professionals use the data for research and habitat management.
Why is knowing wildlife in a garden important?
It provides a baseline to measure future numbers against and helps make informed decisions about habitat management.
Engaging visitors with information about the biodiversity enhances their experience.
What is a bioblitz?
A bioblitz is an event where citizen scientists try to find and record as many species as possible at a site within a set time.
Data from bioblitz events can be submitted to national databases for research.
What is the significance of recording population trends?
It helps determine the effectiveness of management practices and informs conservation measures if populations are declining.
Monitoring trends can lead to legal protections or designated protected sites.
Name one citizen science project and explain its significance.
the Big Garden Birdwatch.
This event helps connect people to nature while gathering valuable information.
What is the name of the study of natural phenomena that recur periodically in plants and animals and of the relationship of these phenomena to seasonal changes and climate?
phenology.
Temperature influences the timing of bud burst, flowering, and animal emergence, which can be tracked over years to identify trends.
This helps in understanding how climate change affects species.
What is a herbarium?
A collection of dried plant specimens that have data associated with them, including identification and collection details.
Herbaria help in research on evolution, taxonomy, and climate change effects.
How can individuals identify wildlife in their gardens?
- Use a field guide
- Use an app
- Use a key
- Enlist knowledgeable help
- Take an identification training course
What should be recorded during wildlife surveys?
Species seen, abundance, and life stage (e.g., adults or larvae).
This data informs habitat management decisions.
True or False: Citizen science projects engage the public and communities with local biodiversity.
True
What are three examples of citizen science projects?
- TreeAlert
- Slugs - RHS survey
- Nature’s Calendar
