Conclusion
Areas for Improvement
Overall, the analysis done for this project was extensive and detailed. However, there is always room for improvement. The data gathered can be implemented in other GIS software such as remote sensing using ENVI. This software can enable a much more dynamic outlook into the data we have gathered. For example, investigating different vegetation cover in agricultural fields can be displayed in a much for visual nature, using spectral signatures. Furthermore, Barn Swallow habitat loss for this project was investigated based on feeding abundance and land cover. We did not account for other factors that may have caused a decline in species such as change in migration routes or changing weather patterns. Following this, the study site was restricted to Metro Vancouver while areas such as Horseshoe Bay, Widgeon and “Bob’s House” were not included in the study sites due to lack of data. A larger study area would have revealed a better understanding of the extent of species decline including areas other than Vancouver.
Conclusion
In summary, Barn Swallows are indeed in a decline. Based on the analysis and data gathered investigation was done on various factors that are causing the decline. The factors included livestock abundance, land cover classification, nesting habitats and insect abundance. The results show that insect abundance is closely related to land cover classification as seen in Appendix E.