Sophia Thomas
Research Mentor(s): Hengxing Zou
Mentor Department: School for Environment and Sustainability
Authors: Sophia Thomas, Hengxing Zou
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Presentation Type: Poster 32
Abstract
Interspecies interactions between migratory and resident bird species play a crucial role in shaping ecological dynamics, yet they remain understudied. This research examines how these interactions differ between migratory and resident bird species across the Midwest United States. Using observational data from a community science platform (eBird), collected from March 2020 to November 2024 across 12 states, the project compares bird-bird interactions by the migratory status of the species involved and identifies ecological factors influencing these interactions. Methodologies include analyzing public field observations, manually classifying interaction types, and conducting statistical analysis using contingency tables and chi-square tests to explore differences in interaction patterns by resident status. Preliminary results suggest meaningful differences in how migratory and resident species interact (?², p < 0.05). Resident birds appear more likely to engage in territorial behaviors, while migratory species show a higher tendency toward resource-sharing interactions. These early findings offer insight into how migratory status may influence behavioral dynamics in bird communities, particularly within the Midwest—a region that serves as both a critical stopover for migratory routes and a year-round home for resident species. Understanding these interactions is important for anticipating how shifts in land use and climate may impact avian biodiversity across the region. This research supports regional conservation and land management efforts by identifying potential behavioral patterns that could inform habitat design and species protection strategies. It also contributes to ecological research while encouraging public engagement through platforms like eBird—helping strengthen the connection between scientific knowledge and community-based conservation in the Midwest.
