Survey of raptors across the main campus of Montclair State University
Presentation Type
Abstract
Faculty Advisor
Lisa Hazard
Access Type
Event
Start Date
25-4-2025 12:00 PM
End Date
25-4-2025 1:00 PM
Description
This study surveyed raptor species across three distinct habitat types on Montclair State University's main campus in Montclair, New Jersey. The campus pond (wetland), Red Hawk Trail (forested), and NJ Transit Train Station (urbanized). Raptors serve as ecological indicators reflecting environmental health. Due to humans altering these habitats, monitoring these birds is crucial for conservation efforts. Surveys occurred five times per week over a semester, rotating between morning and midday observations lasting approximately one hour each. Surveys consisted of visual observations of raptor activity, such as, perching, foraging, or soaring. With spring migration happening at the same time as the study period, increased raptor sightings were anticipated. Each site gave insight into habitat preferences, species diversity, and behavioral patterns. Findings from this study aim to contribute to habitat quality assessments, inform campus wildlife management strategies, and promote citizen science engagement in urban ecological research.
Survey of raptors across the main campus of Montclair State University
This study surveyed raptor species across three distinct habitat types on Montclair State University's main campus in Montclair, New Jersey. The campus pond (wetland), Red Hawk Trail (forested), and NJ Transit Train Station (urbanized). Raptors serve as ecological indicators reflecting environmental health. Due to humans altering these habitats, monitoring these birds is crucial for conservation efforts. Surveys occurred five times per week over a semester, rotating between morning and midday observations lasting approximately one hour each. Surveys consisted of visual observations of raptor activity, such as, perching, foraging, or soaring. With spring migration happening at the same time as the study period, increased raptor sightings were anticipated. Each site gave insight into habitat preferences, species diversity, and behavioral patterns. Findings from this study aim to contribute to habitat quality assessments, inform campus wildlife management strategies, and promote citizen science engagement in urban ecological research.
Comments
Poster presentation at the 2025 Student Research Symposium.