Data Synthesis Essay

Superior Essays
Data collection was done so by means of counting the number of specimens at the feeder. The counting of individuals is interpreted as a discrete quantitative data collection method (Raath, 2011: 2). The number of species were separately identified and counted respectively. For each arrival the time was recorded and the duration of feeding observed.
Data analysis was done by processing the raw data to produce graphs for comparison. As a trend was noticed during observations, it was decided that the best way to portray the occurrence of the sparrows was to use an excel processor to determine a pie graph for the number of flock occurrences vs. single occurrences (more on this will be issued in the discussion). This specific graph was based on the numerical frequency of the birds seen flock feeding or not, and not the actual number of
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During this study the time for observations was expected to be from sunrise until late morning. However, as the study proceeded it was noted that the colder weather had impacted upon the activity patterns of birds. With regards to feeding, it was noted that the later mornings and early afternoons were preferred for feeding (Figure 9).
Birds are an important part of any ecosystem and naturally, the symbiosis between humans and birds has formed the baseline of some commercial sectors – including the seed industry which produces and sells specific mixes that may be planted to attract wild birds to a garden. Birds are important in agriculture, environmental impact research and an ecosystem as a whole.
According to Bright (1993: 150) it is apparent that the research into bird calls is lacking and as such I believe that it is apt to approach this study as of value by proposing a new question – what are the parameters of a bird call with regards to flock feeding and how is this ultimately a benefit to the

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