User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
The theoretical basis of my research project is to demonstrate how species richness and diversity differs along a spatial gradient. The Thompson Rivers University (TRU) campus has different spatial gradients – from grasslands to wooded areas – causing a distribution of bird species throughout the campus. Dominant species at each of the sites can be determined via species abundance at each of the sites. Further research can then be done as to why the dominant species prefers that type or landscape over another.
It is also important to note that human activity can affect the distribution of bird species as some of the study sites were more heavily influenced by human contact than others. Furthermore, weather patterns can also affect species abundance. If one study area is more exposed than another it will experience more wind which could further influence the bird species associated with that location.
Keywords: bird species, species abundance, spatial gradient
