Project help please!

agrumpycow · #1 (**permalink**) 13-05-2010, 06:33 PM

I'm trying to decide on a project subject for my OU course this year but I'm finding it hard finding the data online that I might need.
Does anyone know of any websites where I can find historical data of migrating bird sightings at particular reserves for a set number of years? As in, the first sighting of a particular species each year.
I've had a cursory look at the RSPB website but have no idea where to start looking!

thebeard · #2 (**permalink**) 13-05-2010, 09:19 PM

the best bet i think may be to talk to reserve wardens, local wildlife trusts or county recorders. not sure if most data like that will be found online unfortunately

Jonners · #3 (**permalink**) 13-05-2010, 09:36 PM

Hi Claire. Have a look at the nature's calendar website.
It has various maps showing first recorded sightings across the country of loads of different signs of spring etc, including bird sightings, frogspawn, insects etc. It doesn't tie them down to individual sites, but is very interesting and might be helpful. Hope so, anyway

Tringa · #4 (**permalink**) 14-05-2010, 06:35 AM

Couple of thoughts

Try contacting bird organisations (eg RSPB & BTO) direct and explain what you are doing. They may give you access to their records or point you in the right direction.

Have a look at the BTO site in particular as they collect lots of data and have a number of projects that may be useful - eg Birdtrack and Migration Watch, but if you want data from individual reserves then I think TheBeard has the right ideas.

Dave

agrumpycow · #5 (**permalink**) 14-05-2010, 04:09 PM

Thanks for the replies. I'll certainly look into the suggestions!

forestwildlife · #6 (**permalink**) 14-05-2010, 05:00 PM

Can i be so nosey as to ask what OU course you are doing? Im studying Environmental science and really enjoying it atm.

agrumpycow · #7 (**permalink**) 14-05-2010, 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by forestwildlife

Can i be so nosey as to ask what OU course you are doing? Im studying Environmental science and really enjoying it atm.

Snap, S216! It took a while to get into it after the initial trouble with the software compatibility but since then, like you, I'm finding it really interesting and am really enjoying it. Bit of a step up from the level 1 course last year tho