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Birds and Climate: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

Provided by: National Park Service |Published on: February 16, 2022

Graphs/Tables Grades 9-12

Synopsis

This 7-page scientific paper outlines how climate suitability is predicted to change for bird species at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area based on high-emissions and low-emissions models.

Subjects: Biology

Authors: National Park Service

Region: USA - Northeast, North Jersey, New Jersey, Delaware

Languages: English

Positives

The information in the tables is simple to understand, using terms like worsening, improving, or stable, which makes it more comprehensible for students.
There is a graph that nicely summarizes the data and will allow students to visualize the results.

Prerequisites

This is a dense and technical paper that could be difficult for younger students.
Students should be familiar with the basics of ecology like climate suitability, species distribution, species colonization, and species extirpation.

Differentiation & Implementation

Biology classes could use this paper when discussing ecology, ecosystems, migration, colonization, extinctions, species turnover, habitat loss, and population dynamics.
The paper will likely be challenging for students, so teachers should consider reading it as a class, or having students work in groups with vocabulary terms defined.
Other resources related to birds include this guide to birds in NJ, this video about the endangerment of the NJ state bird, and this interactive map of Migrations in Motion.
Some resources more generally related to species distribution and climate change include the article Humans Just 0.01% of All Life but Have Destroyed 83% of Wild Mammals, and the video Biogeography: Studying the Distribution of Species Across Space.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

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Resource Type and Format