Main objective
The goals of this topic are:
- to explore the variations in terms of population size of the Azorean Roseate Terns Sterna dougallii along the last 20 years and
- explore the predation of Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris upon Roseate Tern eggs and chicks, using automatic cameras and direct observations.
Available data
Data on counts of breeding birds for all colonies in Azores are available for the last 20 years. New data on the predation by Common Starlings and breeding performance (clutch size, productivity, time of breeding phases) is expected to be collected by the student in one of the main breeding colonies located in Praia Isled (Graciosa Island, Azores). Automatic cameras and a wildlife hide will be provided to the student to allow data collection.
Proposed tasks
- Analysis of the available data
- Collecting data in Praia Islet from April to July
- Submit the work in a peer-reviewed journal
Framework of the topic
- Is the topic part of an ongoing project/study? Yes – funded project
- Is there any financial support? Yes: fieldwork/material
Supervisor/tutor
Nuno Oliveira, Departamento de Conservação Marinha | nuno.oliveira@spea.pt
