A changing chorus for urban bushland: an ecoacoustic examination of the effects of urbanisation and restoration on birds.

Overview

Increasing urban expansion in south-east QLD is resulting in wide-scale habitat loss and fragmentation, and this can lead to loss of biodiversity.  Previous research has shown that bird assemblages may change in composition as a result of urbanisation leading to a dominance of urban tolerant and exploitive species. In this project, those species most at risk - urban sensitive bird species - will be examined in urban remnant and restored patches using existing acoustic recordings.

Research engagement

literature review, desktop computer analysis of acoustic recordings , statistical analysis of bird species detections, landscape features and vegetation data

Research activities

computer analysis and a short field trip to visit sites.

working with the conservation ecoacoustics research group

Outcomes

Results from this project have the potential to inform future restoration effors to enhance urban sensitive birds in SEQ bushland.

Skills and experience

The ideal candidate would have an interest in birds and bird identification. Skills in using R studio are required and some prior knowledge in ecology and conservation biology is preferred.  This project will run in block mode during January and February.

Start date

2 January, 2025

End date

14 February, 2025

Location

GP Campus, R block

Additional information

Nil

Keywords

• conservation
• ecology
• ecoacoustics
• restoration

Contact

Susan Fuller,  3138 2497, s.fuller@qut.edu.au