RSS
|
|
The project tracks the migration patterns of the Tundra Swan and involves different kinds of new technology from banding the birds to tracking them using VHF and satellite transmitters which are tracked using three ARGOS satellites orbiting the earth.
Local students who participate in the project at Sylvan Heights will gain experience and knowledge in all aspects of the study, from banding the birds and installing the transmitting collars to tracking them using the latest computer tracking equipment.
Sylvan Heights Director of Education Dan Louk is excited about the opportunity the project presents to Valley youngsters. “This is a real-world research project they can not only observe, but also become involved in,” said Louk. He added there is still time and room for more schools to participate, but the window of opportunity is closing fast.
In addition to participating as a group at Sylvan Heights, Louk said the students will also keep in touch with other groups of students all along the migratory track from North Carolina to Alaska. “The students will actually exchange data that all can benefit and learn from. Since the birds winter almost exclusively in North Carolina, the students here will study the wintering behavior patterns which are very different from the behavior in the breeding grounds in Alaska, which will be studied and reported on by students there,” said Louk.
The experience and skills the students learn will be invaluable, according to Louk, who has done research work all over the world, but primarily in Africa. “These are skills the students will be able to use in many different real-world occupations. They will be involved with their own group and many other groups as well, using computers, satellite tracking devices, GPS and radio telemetry. I wish they had these things when I was in high school,” Louk said with a laugh.
Louk said the study of the Tundra Swan is important because it will determine why changes are occurring in the migration patterns of the birds. Many factors must be considered, from global warming to destruction of wetlands and bird nesting areas. The research findings can be related to many other species.
There will be many groups and organizations participating in the Atlantic Flyway Tundra Swan Research project. North Carolina plays a vital role in the yearly cycle of the eastern population of tundra swans, wintering more swans than any other state on the East Coast. North Carolina Wildlife , Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Tundra Trax, Long Point Bird Observatory, The Trumpeter Swan Society and The Airlie Center in Warrenton, Va., are just a few of the many involved.
Louk, while very excited about the educational opportunities for students, said anyone interested in the study is welcome to visit Sylvan Heights to actually see the birds and gain valuable knowledge about the research project.
He is taking student groups on educational tours through the park most school days, but said he is available to help individuals, too.
For more information on the student research opportunities and the Atlantic Flyway Tundra Swan Research Project, contact Louk at Sylvan Heights Waterfowl Park and Eco Center at (252) 826-3186, ext. 226, or go to their Web site, www.shwpark.com.
Comments