NASA Collaborates with Scientists to Map Bird Populations Using Remote Sensing

In a groundbreaking study published in May 2023 in the journal *Science*, researchers from Cornell University, the University of St. Andrews, and the American Bird Conservancy have harnessed NASA's remote sensing technology to model and map bird population trends across nearly 500 species in North America. This initiative, part of the eBird citizen science program, utilizes millions of observations recorded by bird enthusiasts to provide a comprehensive view of avian populations and habitats.

The research indicates that approximately 75% of the bird species analyzed are experiencing population declines, a trend that mirrors broader global patterns of biodiversity loss. Alison Johnston, a lead researcher and ecologist at the University of St. Andrews, stated, "This project demonstrates the power of merging in situ data with NASA remote sensing to model biological phenomena that were previously impossible to document."

NASA's technology, specifically the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), has enabled the team to distinguish a variety of bird habitats, including open forests, dense shrublands, and croplands. By combining this data with over 36 million eBird checklists—the largest dataset of its kind—the researchers have created a robust system for tracking bird populations over time. Keith Gaddis, the Biological Diversity and Ecological Forecasting program manager at NASA, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, "This data provides not just insight into the Earth system but also actionable guidance to land managers to mitigate biodiversity loss."

The study's methodology involved utilizing machine learning to address gaps in the eBird data, which can vary widely in accuracy due to differences in observer expertise. According to Daniel Fink, a statistician at Cornell, "For every single species, we've created a simulation that mimics the species and various ways it could respond to environmental changes."

The findings reveal that while many bird populations are declining, there are areas where certain species are thriving, indicating opportunities for targeted conservation efforts. Amanda Rodewald, a conservationist at Cornell, noted, "This research will help us make strategic decisions about making changes that are precise, effective, and less costly. This is transformative."

The implications of this study are significant as North America has lost approximately one-quarter of its breeding birds since 1970, driven largely by habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. The need for effective conservation strategies has never been more urgent, and this research provides a framework for identifying high-risk areas and assessing population health.

In conclusion, the integration of citizen science with advanced remote sensing technology not only enhances the credibility of avian population assessments but also empowers conservationists with the tools needed to combat biodiversity loss effectively. As the study demonstrates, there remains hope for many bird species, emphasizing the importance of targeted conservation efforts to ensure their survival in an ever-changing environment.