RSPB Wildlife Indicators

  Secondary | Environment | Views: 978

The wildlife indicator is based on population trends of breeding birds: the number of birds is seen as a measure of the health of the environment. However, the population of British farmland birds has declined rapidly. This is thought to be the result of several things, including:

1. A period of rapid intensification in farming, with increases in the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers.
2. Removal of hedgerows, which means a loss of places for birds to feed, shelter and breed.
3. Changes in the timing and methods of growing crops.

One of the species of birds most seriously threatened is the tree sparrow, which depends on nest holes in trees, and many have been affected by hedgerow loss, Dutch elm disease and a reduction in summer and winter food caused by changes in agriculture.

Since 1972 we have lost 87% of the tree sparrow population. There are now just 110,000 pairs left. 

Questions

1. Calculate the number of tree sparrows in 1972.
2. Give your answer in standard form to 2 decimal places.
3. Write all answers in the standard form correct to 2 decimal places.

TASK: As an Environmental Officer, your job is to help your locality encourage an increase in bird population. Create a poster/pamphlet, outlining key information and persuading your local community to help, explaining how they can.

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