Make a list of the variables or factors that one might need to take into account when projecting future pheasant populations from historic data such as the Iowa Roadside Pheasant Survey.

Short Answer

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When projecting future pheasant populations from historic data, it's crucial to take into account factors such as ecological conditions (habitat quality, predation, competition), environmental influences (weather, climate variations), human influences (hunting, farming practices), and the methodology of the survey itself.

Step by step solution

01

Identify Ecological Factors

The health and wellness of any animal population largely depend on ecosystem factors. For pheasants, these factors include availability and quality of nesting and brood-rearing habitats, predation rates, and competition with other species for resources. Identifying and analysing these factors would be the first step.
02

Identify Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions such as temperature, rainfall, snowfall, and weather patterns significantly influence animal populations. For instance, extreme weather events or annual changes in temperature and rainfall can affect the survival and reproduction of pheasants. Assessing these aspects in the historical data is the next key step.
03

Identify Human Influences

Humans impact wildlife populations in various ways, and for pheasants, hunting pressure and farming practices can be particularly relevant. It's crucial to evaluate the data for any fluctuations that could be linked to changes in hunting regulations, agricultural practices, or land use.
04

Evaluate Survey Methodology

Finally, it's important to consider the methods used in the Iowa Roadside Pheasant Survey. Were there any changes in survey areas, times, or techniques that could have influenced the number of pheasant sightings over the years? Understanding this will provide a more accurate projection.

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