Name: a video surveillance system to monitor breeding colonies of common terns (sterna hirundo)
Uploaded: 2018-07-22T13:00:00
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about A Video Surveillance System to Monitor Breeding Colonies of Common Terns Sterna Hirundo at JoVE.com

All data reported in this manuscript were collected in accordance with protocol approved by the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center Animal Care and Use Committee. This project was funded by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and supported by the USGS Ecosystems Mission Area.&#160; Video production was funded by The Chesapeake Bay Trust and Friends of Patuxent. We would like to thank the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Maryland Environmental Service, and Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Port Administration for general logistical support and allowing video filming on site. We would like to acknowledge Dr. Bill Bowerman and Dr. Daniel Gruner from the University of Maryland for their input into system design and implementation. We would also like to acknowledge Bill Schultz, Kaitlyn Reintsma and Katie DeVoss for their help in troubleshooting and in field set-up in summer 2017. Finally, we would to thank Michael Glow (internal review) and anonymous reviewers for their input. The use of trade, product, or firm names in this publication is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

1. Pre-Field Preparation of the Video Monitoring System
Note: This includes the steps necessary to prepare the solar panels, battery system, cameras and staking system for construction at the field site.
<ol>
	<li>To begin set-up of the solar panels and battery system, cut and solder 20 copper insulated 10 American wire gauge (AWG) wires (10 positive, 10 negative), attaching ring terminals when necessary.
	<ol>
		<li>Cut six negative (black) and six positive (red) wires approximately 2 ft. l...

<ol>
	<li>Nisbet, I. C. T., Arnold, J. M., Oswald, S. A., Pyle, P., Patten, M. A., Rodewald, P. G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Common+Tern+(Sterna+hirundo.).">Common Tern (Sterna hirundo.).</a> The Birds of North America. , (2017).</li><li>Brinker, D. F., Mccann, J. M., Williams, B., Watts, B. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Colonial-nesting+seabirds+in+the+Chesapeake+Bay+region:+where+have+we+been+and+where+are+we+going?.">Colonial-nesting seabirds in the Chesapeake Bay region: where have we been and where are we going?.</a> Waterbirds. 30 (1), 93-104 (2007).</li><li>Maryland Natural Heritage Program. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> List of rare, threatened, and endangered animals of Maryland. , 21401 (2016).</li><li>Palestis, B. G., Hines, J. E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Adult+survival+and+breeding+dispersal+of+common+terns+(Sterna+hirundo)+in+a+declining+population.">Adult survival and breeding dispersal of common terns (Sterna hirundo) in a declining population.</a> Waterbirds. 38 (3), 221-228 (2015).</li><li>Buckley, F. G., Buckley, P. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Microenvironmental+determinants+of+survival+in+saltmarsh-nesting+common+terns.">Microenvironmental determinants of survival in saltmarsh-nesting common terns.</a> Colonial Waterbirds. 5, 39 (1982).</li><li>Erwin, R. M., Brinker, D. F., Watts, B. D., Costanzo, G. R., Morton, D. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Islands+at+bay:+rising+seas,+eroding+islands,+and+waterbird+habitat+loss+in+Chesapeake+Bay+(USA).">Islands at bay: rising seas, eroding islands, and waterbird habitat loss in Chesapeake Bay (USA).</a> Journal of Coastal Conservation. 15 (1), 51-60 (2010).</li><li>Drury, W. H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Population+changes+in+New+England+seabirds+(Continued).">Population changes in New England seabirds (Continued).</a> Bird-Banding. 45 (1), 1 (1974).</li><li>Anderson, J. G., Devlin, C. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Restoration+of+a+multi-species+seabird+colony.">Restoration of a multi-species seabird colony.</a> Biological Conservation. 90 (3), 175-181 (1999).</li><li>Erwin, R. M., Miller, J., Reese, J. G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Poplar+Island+environmental+restoration+project:+challenges+in+waterbird+restoration+on+an+island+in+Chesapeake+Bay.">Poplar Island environmental restoration project: challenges in waterbird restoration on an island in Chesapeake Bay.</a> Ecological Restoration. 25 (4), 256-262 (2007).</li><li>Kress, S. W., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+status+of+tern+populations+in+northeastern+United+States+and+adjacent+Canada.">The status of tern populations in northeastern United States and adjacent Canada.</a> Colonial Waterbirds. 6, 84-106 (1983).</li><li>Carney, K. M., Sydeman, W. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+review+of+human+disturbance+effects+on+nesting+colonial+waterbirds.">A review of human disturbance effects on nesting colonial waterbirds.</a> Waterbirds. 22 (1), 68-79 (1999).</li><li>Brubeck, M. V., Thompson, B. C., Slack, R. D. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+effects+of+trapping,+banding,+and+patagial+tagging+on+the+parental+behavior+of+least+terns+in+Texas.">The effects of trapping, banding, and patagial tagging on the parental behavior of least terns in Texas.</a> Colonial Waterbirds. 4, 54 (1981).</li><li>Gochfeld, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Differences+in+behavioral+responses+of+young+common+terns+and+black+skimmers+to+intrusion+and+handling.">Differences in behavioral responses of young common terns and black skimmers to intrusion and handling.</a> Colonial Waterbirds. 4, 47 (1981).</li><li>Nisbet, I. C. T. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Behavior+of+common+and+roseate+terns+after+trapping.">Behavior of common and roseate terns after trapping.</a> Colonial Waterbirds. 4, 44 (1981).</li><li>Carey, M. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Investigator+disturbance+reduces+reproductive+success+in+Short-tailed+Shearwaters+Puffinus+tentuirostris.">Investigator disturbance reduces reproductive success in Short-tailed Shearwaters Puffinus tentuirostris.</a> IBIS. 153 (2), 363-372 (2011).</li><li>Stein, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Absence+from+the+nest+due+to+human+disturbance+induces+higher+nest+predation+risk+than+natural+recesses+in+Common+Eiders+Somateria+mollissima.">Absence from the nest due to human disturbance induces higher nest predation risk than natural recesses in Common Eiders Somateria mollissima.</a> IBIS. 158 (2), 249-260 (2015).</li><li>Safina, C., Burger, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Effects+of+human+disturbance+on+reproductive+success+in+the+black+skimmer.">Effects of human disturbance on reproductive success in the black skimmer.</a> The Condor. 85 (2), 164-171 (1983).</li><li>Ellenburg, U., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Assessing+the+impact+of+nest+searches+on+breeding+birds-+a+case+study+on+Fiordland+creasted+penguins+(Eudyptes+pachyrhynchus).">Assessing the impact of nest searches on breeding birds- a case study on Fiordland creasted penguins (Eudyptes pachyrhynchus).</a> New Zealand Journal of Ecology. 39 (2), 231-244 (2015).</li><li>Erwin, M. R., Beck, R. A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Restoration+of+waterbird+habitats+in+Chesapeake+Bay:+great+expectations+or+sisyphus+revisited?.">Restoration of waterbird habitats in Chesapeake Bay: great expectations or sisyphus revisited?.</a> Waterbirds. 30 (1), 163-176 (2007).</li><li>Erwin, M. R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=.">.</a> Post phase I dike construction faunal component surveys of the Paul S. Sarbanes ecosystem restoration project at Poplar Island: the 2012 assessment of waterbird nesting. , (2012).</li><li>Cox, W. A., Pruett, M. S., Benson, T. J., Chiavacci, S. J., Thompson, F. R., Ribic, C. A., Thompson, F. R., Pietz, P. J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Development+of+camera+technology+for+monitoring+nests.">Development of camera technology for monitoring nests.</a> Video surveillance of nesting birds. , 185-198 (2012).</li><li>Mckinnon, L., B&#234;ty, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Effect+of+camera+monitoring+on+survival+rates+of+High-Arctic+shorebird+nests.">Effect of camera monitoring on survival rates of High-Arctic shorebird nests.</a> Journal of Field Ornithology. 80 (3), 280-288 (2009).</li><li>. LW3211 series specs Available from: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lorextechnology.com/downloads/wireless-security-cameras/LW3211-Series/LW3211_Series_Spec_R1.pdf">https://www.lorextechnology.com/downloads/wireless-security-cameras/LW3211-Series/LW3211_Series_Spec_R1.pdf</a> (2017)</li><li>Nisbet, I. C. T., Cohen, M. E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Asynchronous+hatching+in+common+and+roseate+terns,+Sterna+Hirundo+and+S.+Dougallii.">Asynchronous hatching in common and roseate terns, Sterna Hirundo and S. Dougallii.</a> IBIS. 117 (3), 374-379 (2008).</li><li>. 720P Wireless digital security camera LW3211 series quick start guide Available from: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lorextechnology.com/downloads/wireless-security-cameras/LW3211-Series/LW3211_SERIES_QSG_EN_R1.pdf">https://www.lorextechnology.com/downloads/wireless-security-cameras/LW3211-Series/LW3211_SERIES_QSG_EN_R1.pdf</a> (2017)</li></ol>

Monitoring waterbirds can be disruptive, and investigator disturbance while monitoring waterbirds has been linked to nest abandonment and decreases in reproductive success12,13,14. The protocol presented here offers a minimally invasive monitoring approach that allows researchers to establish and document the nesting behavior of ground-nesting waterbirds through continuous video footage.
Because this ...

Common terns (Sterna hirundo, hereafter COTE), a waterbird species with a widespread breeding distribution, have become a flagship example of the need for conservation and monitoring programs1. Once harvested to near extirpation for the millinery trade, federal legislation in the 1900s enabled populations to rebound. However, declining population trends in the Chesapeake Bay have prompted increased concern over COTE, in addition to many other waterbirds2. COTE are currently listed as a Maryland state endangered species due to reductions in both breeding numbers and active breeding colonies3. Stressors including flooding and washouts of breeding sites4,5,6, anthropogenic disturbance, competition/predation with gulls7,8, and predation by great horned owls (Bubo virginianus) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes)9,10, are believed to have contributed to current population declines; however, the relative contributions of individual stressors are not known. Understanding stressors associated with different stages of the breeding cycle, such as incubation, post-hatch, and fledging success are important but can be intensive and include frequent surveys that require entry into the nesting colony11. Such monitoring techniques can be disruptive to tern populations, and in some cases may result in nest abandonment and/or reductions in reproductive success12,13,14.
While the impact of researchers on common terns is well documented, intensive monitoring can impact a number of additional ground-nesting colonial species, such as short tailed shearwaters (Puffinus tenuirostris)15, common eiders (Somateria mollissima)16, black skimmers (Rynchops niger)17, and Fiordland crested penguins (Eudyptes pachyrhynchus)18. For instance, a study on short tailed shearwaters found that monitoring intensity had an inverse relationship on hatching success, and can exacerbate population declines. These examples illustrate the increasing need to reduce disturbance while maintaining comprehensive monitoring programs. With the video system outlined in this paper, we aimed to obtain information on nest attentiveness and observation of predators in a manner that would reduce the physical presence of humans within the colony.
Our study was located at the Paul S. Sarbanes Ecosystem Restoration Project at Poplar Island (38&#176;46&#8242;01&#8243;N, 76&#176;22&#8242;54&#8243;W, hereafter Poplar Island), one of the few known nesting sites for COTE in Maryland. Ongoing monitoring programs on Poplar Island have identified consistent nesting by COTE, albeit with variable levels of success depending on presence of avian or mammalian predators19,20. Due to these factors, Poplar Island was identified as an ideal location to conduct this study.
While the ability to monitor waterbird populations with video technology has clear benefits to the species under observation21,22, a number of technical considerations must be taken into account when implementing such an approach. For instance, video resolution must be sufficient to identify items of interest to the researcher, such as food items, nest markings, or colored leg bands for individual identification. Additionally, the physical components must be durable enough to withstand both weather events and wildlife interactions. Wireless security cameras were chosen due to their high definition picture quality, color display with wireless and infrared capabilities, outdoor durability, and overall cost effectiveness23.
The objective of this study was to design a video monitoring system that would allow for the remote observation of a ground-nesting colonial species while causing minimal disturbance to those individuals and the colony. This paper outlines the specific video system used to collect data.

<table>
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Morningstar SS-20L-12V (2)</td>
			<td>Morningstar Corporation</td>
			<td>3680192</td>
			<td>Charge controller</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Renogy 100 W 12V Panel (4)</td>
			<td>Renogy</td>
			<td>RNG-100D</td>
			<td>Solar panel</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LOREX LW3211 (6)</td>
			<td>Lorex</td>
			<td>LW3211-2PK</td>
			<td>Wireless camera with receivers</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Sawhorse (4)</td>
			<td>HDX</td>
			<td>SH106</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>LOREX DV7082</td>
			<td>Lorex</td>
			<td>DV7082W</td>
			<td>8ch 1080p HD DVR; Comes with computer mouse</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12V dry cell Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) car batteries (6)</td>
			<td>Optima</td>
			<td>DS46B24R</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>TCT LCD color monitor</td>
			<td>Kuman</td>
			<td>X0013XAI51</td>
			<td>Mini display monitor</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>22 in. display monitor</td>
			<td>Dell</td>
			<td>S2218H</td>
			<td>For office</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>18 gallon plastic bin (2)</td>
			<td>Sterilite</td>
			<td>1446</td>
			<td>Plastic container</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Black copper insulated 10 AWG wire</td>
			<td>Southwire</td>
			<td>22973257</td>
			<td>Black electrical wire</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Red copper insulated 10 AWG wire</td>
			<td>Southwire</td>
			<td>37113803</td>
			<td>Red electrical wire</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3/8 in. ring terminals</td>
			<td>Autocraft</td>
			<td>85417</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5/16 in. ring terminals</td>
			<td>AutoCraft</td>
			<td>85445</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Winged wire connectors (red)</td>
			<td>Commercial Electric</td>
			<td>775304</td>
			<td>Connector is large enough to accommodate 3 10AWG wires inside</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12V male DC adapter (2)</td>
			<td>Avue</td>
			<td>162537</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Male DC 2.1 x 5.5 mm power plugs for CCTV (4)</td>
			<td>WinBook</td>
			<td>231001</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Four port DC power splitters, 1 female to 4</td>
			<td>ClearView</td>
			<td>PWRSPIDER4</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1.5 ft. wooden board (5)</td>
			<td>Home Depot</td>
			<td>461443</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5 ft. wooden board</td>
			<td>Vigoro</td>
			<td>RC 85N</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1/4 in. x 2 in. eye bolt (8)</td>
			<td>Everbilt</td>
			<td>816721</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5/16 in. hex nuts (16)</td>
			<td>Everbilt</td>
			<td>804886</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5/16 in. washers (16)</td>
			<td>Everbilt</td>
			<td>807220</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>SAE size 6 stainless steel clamps (8)</td>
			<td>Everbilt</td>
			<td>670655E</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>60ft. BNC extension cables (6)</td>
			<td>WinBook</td>
			<td>432377</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2 ft. x 4 ft. wooden plywood</td>
			<td>Home Depot</td>
			<td>1502104</td>
			<td>Cut to 1 ft. x 2 ft.</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5 ft. metal rebar (8)</td>
			<td>Weyerhaeuser</td>
			<td>35616</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Bungee cord (2)</td>
			<td>HDX</td>
			<td>56128</td>
			<td>For securing lid</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>15 ft. x 3/4 in. sticky back tape</td>
			<td>Velcro</td>
			<td>239540</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Duct tape</td>
			<td>Duck</td>
			<td>392875</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Permanent Marker</td>
			<td>Sharpie</td>
			<td>35010</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1/4 in. x 400 ft. white diamond braid nylon rope</td>
			<td>Everbilt</td>
			<td>72716</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Weatherproof electrical tape</td>
			<td>Scotch</td>
			<td>6143-BA-10</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Schumacher 6A 12V automatic battery charger/ Carquest battery charger 8A</td>
			<td>Schumacher/ Carquest</td>
			<td>SP6/ CQ-80CR</td>
			<td>Two possible car battery chargers</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6 in. nails (14)</td>
			<td>Grip-Rite</td>
			<td>60HGC</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>18 Volt 1/2 in. Drill-Driver</td>
			<td>Ryobi</td>
			<td>P208B</td>
			<td>Drill</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>25 watt standard duty soldering iron</td>
			<td>Weller</td>
			<td>SP25NKUS</td>
			<td>Soldering iron</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Leaded rosin core solder</td>
			<td>Bernzomatic</td>
			<td>354123</td>
			<td>Solder</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Wire cutter</td>
			<td>Stanley</td>
			<td>84-199</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Screwdriver</td>
			<td>Husky</td>
			<td>146340142</td>
			<td>Came from 14 piece set of Phillips and flathead drivers</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>15 in. aggressive tooth saw</td>
			<td>Home Depot</td>
			<td>122SS159</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Rubber mallet</td>
			<td>HDX</td>
			<td>31030</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>Post driver</td>
			<td>Everbilt</td>
			<td>901147EB</td>
			<td></td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

a video surveillance system to monitor breeding colonies of common terns (sterna hirundo)

Many waterbird populations have faced declines over the last century, including the common tern (Sterna hirundo), a waterbird species with a widespread breeding distribution, that has been recently listed as endangered in some habitats of its range. Waterbird monitoring programs exist to track populations through time; however, some of the more intensive approaches require entering colonies and can be disruptive to nesting populations. This paper describes a protocol that utilizes a minimally invasive surveillance system to continuously monitor common tern nesting behavior in typical ground-nesting colonies. The video monitoring system utilizes wireless cameras focused on individual nests as well as over the colony as a whole, and allows for observation without entering the colony. The video system is powered with several 12 V car batteries that are continuously recharged using solar panels. Footage is recorded using a digital video recorder (DVR) connected to a hard drive, which can be replaced when full. The DVR may be placed outside of the colony to reduce disturbance. In this study, 3,624 h of footage recorded over 63 days in weather conditions ranging from 12.8 &#176;C to 35.0 &#176;C produced 3,006 h (83%) of usable behavioral data. The types of data retrieved from the recorded video can vary; we used it to detect external disturbances and measure nesting behavior during incubation. Although the protocol detailed here was designed for ground-nesting waterbirds, the principal system could easily be modified to accommodate alternative scenarios, such as colonial arboreal nesting species, making it widely applicable to a variety of research needs.

The implementation of this video monitoring protocol will result in continuous datasets of footage from five waterbird nests at close range and one set of footage of the entire colony from an elevated vantage point. A successful use of this system will minimize time where the footage is out of range or displaying a poor-quality image and will maximize time where the footage is of high quality (Figure 2; Figure 3). Cameras were in...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about A Video Surveillance System to Monitor Breeding Colonies of Common Terns Sterna Hirundo at JoVE.com

A Video Surveillance System to Monitor Breeding Colonies of Common Terns Sterna Hirundo

This paper describes a protocol that uses a remote video monitoring surveillance system to continuously monitor breeding colonies of ground-nesting waterbirds. The system includes five cameras monitoring individual nests and one camera monitoring the colony as a whole, and is powered by car batteries that are recharged via solar panels.

A Video Surveillance System to Monitor Breeding Colonies of Common Terns (Sterna Hirundo)

Many waterbird populations have faced declines over the last century, including the common tern (Sterna hirundo), a waterbird species with a widespread ...

This surveillance system enables ornithologists to answer key questions related to nesting behavior such as nest attentiveness and the impacts of predation. The main advantage of this technique is that it allows for intensive monitoring of colonies while reducing disturbance levels that may otherwise have negatively impacted them. To begin, label four solar panels C1, DVR1, DVR2, and DVR3.For panels C1 and DVR2, use winged wire connectors to attach one set of four foot positive and negative wires to the respective positive and negative ends of the panels. Then cap the open ends of the wires with additional winged wire connectors. For panel DVR1, use winged wire connectors to attach two sets of four foot positive and negative wires to the respective positive and negative ends of the panel.Then cap the open ends of the wires with additional winged wire connectors. Tape all of the loose wires to the backs of the panels for ease to transport. Next, attach a charge controller to two 18 gallon plastic bins as specified in the text protocol.Label one of the bins camera system and the other DVR system. Next, loosen the battery positive and battery negative screws on the charge controller in the camera system bin and slide the soldered end of each wire into the left side of its corresponding slot. Tighten the screws and ensure that both wires are secure.Then repeat this process for the charge controller in the DVR system bin. In the DVR system bin, attach a 12-volt male DC adapter to the charge controller by loosening the load positive and load negative screws and sliding the corresponding positive and negative wires into the left sides of each slot. Then tape the loose wires to the plastic box for transport.Repeat this process with the two male DC power plugs in the camera system bin. Then connect two four-port DC power splitters to the male DC power plugs in the camera system bin. Repeat this process with the male DC power plugs in the DVR system bin.First, place solar panel C1 on a sawhorse at the designated camera system location. Then place panels DVR1, two, and three in order on three sawhorses at the designated DVR system location. To prevent sliding, drive two six-inch nails into the ground in front of each solar panel.Then drive two six-inch tent stakes into the ground at a 45 degree angle from the back of the solar panels. Secure the loose ends of rope from the backs of the solar panels to the stakes. Next, position four 12-volt dry cell AGM car batteries in a two by two fashion.Attach one 3/8 inch ring terminal from the positive two foot wire to the positive battery terminal on the bottom right battery. Then attach the other 3/8 inch ring terminal to the positive battery terminal on the top right battery. Repeat these steps with the 5/16 inch ring terminal from the negative battery terminals on both right batteries.Next, attach one 3/8 inch ring terminal from the positive two foot wires to the positive battery terminals on the top left and bottom left batteries. Then repeat this step with the 5/16 inch ring terminal from the negative wire to the negative battery terminals on both left batteries. Attach the one side soldered/one side ring terminal wire from the charge controller to a positive battery terminal.Then attach the negative to the negative battery terminal of a different battery. To connect the solar panel wires to the charge controller, attach one positive and one negative wire from DVR2 to the respective positive and negative wires on DVR3. Then attach one positive and one negative wire from DVR1 to DVR2 and attach the remaining wires from DVR1 to the charge controller in the DVR system bin.Next, place the plywood attached to the DVR over the car batteries in the DVR system bin and tape each receiver to the DVR system bin as specified in the text protocol. Connect the female DC power plug on each receiver to each of the male DC power plugs on the two four-port DC power splitters. Then connect one of the male DC power plugs to the port labeled DC 12 volts on the DVR.Secure the remaining male DC power plug with weather-proof electrical tape. Next, connect the yellow B and C on each receiver to six of the eight ports labeled video in on the DVR. Then connect the 12-volt male DC adapter from the charge controller to the yellow AV port on the display monitor.Connect the HDMI cable from the display monitor to the HDMI port on the DVR. Then press the power buttons on the DVR and the display monitor and program the settings. To attach the cameras to the surveillance system, connect a B and C extension cable from each camera to the four-port DC power splitters in the camera system bin.Finally, check the display monitor to view the live footage. Ensure the video is clear and make adjustments to the camera placement if necessary. The implementation of this camera monitoring system resulted in the collection of 3, 120 hours of footage from eight nests and 504 hours of footage from one colony camera.Out of these combined 3, 624 hours of data, 83%of the footage contained usable high-quality data. This technique helps pave the way for ornithologists and management communities to improve data collection and monitoring of target species in a minimally invasive manner, reducing the impacts monitoring efforts have on the species we aim to research and protect.

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Environment

The Use of an Automated System (GreenFeed) to Monitor Enteric Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Ruminant Animals

Ruminant animals (domesticated or wild) emit methane (CH4) through enteric fermentation in their digestive tract and from decomposition of manure during storage. These processes are the major sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from animal production systems. Techniques for measuring enteric CH4 vary from direct measurements (respiration chambers, which are highly accurate, but with limited applicability) to various indirect methods (sniffers, laser technology, which are practical, but with variable accuracy). The sulfur hexafluoride (SF6)&#160;tracer gas method is commonly used to measure enteric CH4 production by animal scientists and more recently, application of an Automated Head-Chamber System (AHCS) (GreenFeed, C-Lock, Inc., Rapid City, SD), which is the focus of this experiment, has been growing. AHCS is an automated system to monitor CH4 and carbon dioxide (CO2) mass fluxes from the breath of ruminant animals. In a typical AHCS operation, small quantities of baiting feed are dispensed to individual animals to lure them to AHCS multiple times daily. As the animal visits AHCS, a fan system pulls air past the animal&#8217;s muzzle into an intake manifold, and through an air collection pipe where continuous airflow rates are measured. A sub-sample of air is pumped out of the pipe into non-dispersive infra-red sensors for continuous measurement of CH4 and CO2 concentrations. Field comparisons of AHCS to respiration chambers or SF6 have demonstrated that AHCS produces repeatable and accurate CH4 emission results, provided that animal visits to AHCS are sufficient so emission estimates are representative of the diurnal rhythm of rumen gas production. Here, we demonstrate the use of AHCS to measure CO2 and CH4 fluxes from dairy cows given a control diet or a diet supplemented with technical-grade cashew nut shell liquid.

The Use of an Automated System GreenFeed to Monitor Enteric Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Ruminant Animals

Accuracy and precision of the techniques used to measure methane emissions from ruminant animals are critically important for the success of greenhouse gas mitigation efforts. This manuscript describes the principles and operation of an automated system to monitor methane and carbon dioxide mass fluxes from the breath of ruminant animals.

Ruminant animals (domesticated or wild) emit methane (CH4) through enteric fermentation in their digestive tract and from decomposition of manure during ...

Calibrated Passive Sampling - Multi-plot Field Measurements of NH3 Emissions with a Combination of Dynamic Tube Method and Passive Samplers

Agricultural ammonia (NH3) emissions (90% of total EU emissions) are responsible for about 45% airborne eutrophication, 31% soil acidification and 12% fine dust formation within the EU15. But NH3 emissions also mean a considerable loss of nutrients. Many studies on NH3 emission from organic and mineral fertilizer application have been performed in recent decades. Nevertheless, research related to NH3 emissions after application fertilizers is still limited in particular with respect to relationships to emissions, fertilizer type, site conditions and crop growth. Due to the variable response of crops to treatments, effects can only be validated in experimental designs including field replication for statistical testing. The dominating ammonia loss methods yielding quantitative emissions require large field areas, expensive equipment or current supply, which restricts their application in replicated field trials. This protocol describes a new methodology for the measurement of NH3 emissions on many plots linking a simple semi-quantitative measuring method used in all plots, with a quantitative method by simultaneous measurements using both methods on selected plots. As a semi-quantitative measurement method passive samplers are used. The second method is a dynamic chamber method (Dynamic Tube Method) to obtain a transfer quotient, which converts the semi-quantitative losses of the passive sampler to quantitative losses (kg nitrogen ha-1). The principle underlying this approach is that passive samplers placed in a homogeneous experimental field have the same NH3 absorption behavior under identical environmental conditions. Therefore, a transfer co-efficient obtained from single passive samplers can be used to scale the values of all passive samplers used in the same field trial. The method proved valid under a wide range of experimental conditions and is recommended to be used under conditions with bare soil or small canopies (&#60;0.3 m). Results obtained from experiments with taller plants should be treated more carefully.

Calibrated Passive Sampling - Multi-plot Field Measurements of NH3 Emissions with a Combination of Dynamic Tube Method and Passive Samplers

Ammonia emissions are a major threat to the environment by eutrophication, soil acidification and fine particle formation and stem mainly from agricultural sources. This method allows ammonia loss measurements in replicated field trials enabling statistical analysis of emissions and of relationships between crop development and emissions.

Agricultural ammonia (NH3) emissions (90% of total EU emissions) are responsible for about 45% airborne eutrophication, 31% soil acidification and 12% ...

Methods of Soil Resampling to Monitor Changes in the Chemical Concentrations of Forest Soils

Recent soils research has shown that important chemical soil characteristics can change in less than a decade, often the result of broad environmental changes. Repeated sampling to monitor these changes in forest soils is a relatively new practice that is not well documented in the literature and has only recently been broadly embraced by the scientific community. The objective of this protocol is therefore to synthesize the latest information on methods of soil resampling in a format that can be used to design and implement a soil monitoring program. Successful monitoring of forest soils requires that a study unit be defined within an area of forested land that can be characterized with replicate sampling locations. A resampling interval of 5 years is recommended, but if monitoring is done to evaluate a specific environmental driver, the rate of change expected in that driver should be taken into consideration. Here, we show that the sampling of the profile can be done by horizon where boundaries can be clearly identified and horizons are sufficiently thick to remove soil without contamination from horizons above or below. Otherwise, sampling can be done by depth interval. Archiving of sample for future reanalysis is a key step in avoiding analytical bias and providing the opportunity for additional analyses as new questions arise.

Repeated soil sampling has recently been shown to be an effective way to monitor forest soil change over years and decades. To support its use, a protocol is presented that synthesizes the latest information on soil resampling methods to aid in the design and implementation of successful soil monitoring programs.

Recent soils research has shown that important chemical soil characteristics can change in less than a decade, often the result of broad environmental ...

Video Tracking Protocol to Screen Deterrent Chemistries for Honey Bees

The European honey bee, Apis mellifera L., is an economically and agriculturally important pollinator that generates billions of dollars annually. Honey bee colony numbers have been declining in the United States and many European countries since 1947. A number of factors play a role in this decline, including the unintentional exposure of honey bees to pesticides. The development of new methods and regulations are warranted to reduce pesticide exposures to these pollinators. One approach is the use of repellent chemistries that deter honey bees from a recently pesticide-treated crop. Here, we describe a protocol to discern the deterrence of honey bees exposed to select repellent chemistries. Honey bee foragers are collected and starved overnight in an incubator 15 h prior to testing. Individual honey bees are placed into Petri dishes that have either a sugar-agarose cube (control treatment) or sugar-agarose-compound cube (repellent treatment) placed into the middle of the dish. The Petri dish serves as the arena that is placed under a camera in a light box to record the honey bee locomotor activities using video tracking software. A total of 8 control and 8 repellent treatments were analyzed for a 10 min period with each treatment was duplicated with new honey bees. Here, we demonstrate that honey bees are deterred from the sugar-agarose cubes with a compound treatment whereas honey bees are attracted to the sugar-agarose cubes without an added compound.

The loss of honey bee colonies presents a challenge to crop pollination services. Current pollinator protection practices warrant an alternative approach to minimize the contact of honey bees to harmful pesticides using repellent chemistries. Here, we provide detailed methods for a visual tracking protocol to screen deterrents for bees.

The European honey bee, Apis mellifera L., is an economically and agriculturally important pollinator that generates billions of dollars annually. Honey ...

Measuring and Mapping Patterns of Soil Erosion and Deposition Related to Soil Carbonate Concentrations Under Agricultural Management

Spatial patterns of soil erosion and deposition can be inferred from differences in ground elevation mapped at appropriate time increments. Such changes in elevation are related to changes in near-surface soil carbonate (CaCO3) profiles. The objective is to describe a simple conceptual model and detailed protocol for repeatable field and laboratory measurements of these quantities. Here, accurate elevation is measured using a ground-based differential global positioning system (GPS); other data acquisition methods could be applied to the same basic method. Soil samples are collected from prescribed depth intervals and analyzed in the lab using an efficient and precise modified pressure-calcimeter method for quantitative analysis of inorganic carbon concentration. Standard statistical methods are applied to point data, and representative results show significant correlations between changes in soil surface layer CaCO3 and changes in elevation consistent with the conceptual model; CaCO3 generally decreased in depositional areas and increased in erosional areas. Maps are derived from point measurements of elevation and soil CaCO3 to aid analyses. A map of erosional and depositional patterns at the study site, a rain-fed winter wheat field cropped in alternating wheat-fallow strips, shows the interacting effects of water and wind erosion affected by management and topography. Alternative sampling methods and depth intervals are discussed and recommended for future work relating soil erosion and deposition to soil CaCO3.

Spatial patterns of soil erosion and deposition can be inferred from differences in ground elevation mapped at appropriate time increments. Such changes in elevation are related to changes in near-surface soil carbonates. Repeatable methods for field and laboratory measurements of these quantities and data analysis methods are described here.

Spatial patterns of soil erosion and deposition can be inferred from differences in ground elevation mapped at appropriate time increments. Such changes ...

The Calibration and Use of Capacitance Sensors to Monitor Stem Water Content in Trees

Water transport and storage through the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum is critical to the terrestrial water cycle, and has become a major research focus area. Biomass capacitance plays an integral role in the avoidance of hydraulic impairment to transpiration. However, high temporal resolution measurements of dynamic changes in the hydraulic capacitance of large trees are rare. Here, we present procedures for the calibration and use of capacitance sensors, typically used to monitor soil water content, to measure the volumetric water content in trees in the field. Frequency domain reflectometry-style observations are sensitive to the density of the media being studied. Therefore, it is necessary to perform species-specific calibrations to convert from the sensor-reported values of dielectric permittivity to volumetric water content. Calibration is performed on a harvested branch or stem cut into segments that are dried or re-hydrated to produce a full range of water contents used to generate a best-fit regression with sensor observations. Sensors are inserted into calibration segments or installed in trees after pre-drilling holes to a tolerance fit using a fabricated template to ensure proper drill alignment. Special care is taken to ensure that sensor tines make good contact with the surrounding media, while allowing them to be inserted without excessive force. Volumetric water content dynamics observed via the presented methodology align with sap flow measurements recorded using thermal dissipation techniques and environmental forcing data. Biomass water content data can be used to observe the onset of water stress, drought response and recovery, and has the potential to be applied to the calibration and evaluation of new plant-level hydrodynamics models, as well as to the partitioning of remotely sensed moisture products into above- and belowground components.

The hydraulic capacitance of biomass is a key component of the vegetation water budget, which serves as a buffer against short and long-term drought stresses. Here, we present a protocol for the calibration and use of soil moisture capacitance sensors to monitor water content in the stems of large trees.

Water transport and storage through the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum is critical to the terrestrial water cycle, and has become a major research focus ...

A Strain Gauge Monitor (SGM) for Continuous Valve Gape Measurements in Bivalve Molluscs in Response to Laboratory Induced Diel-cycling Hypoxia and pH

An inexpensive, laboratory-based, strain gauge valve gape monitor (SGM) was developed to monitor the valve gape behavior of bivalve molluscs in response to diel-cycling hypoxia. A Wheatstone bridge was connected to strain gauges that were attached to the shells of oysters (Crassostrea virginica). The recorded signals allowed for the opening and closing of the bivalves to be recorded continuously over two-day periods of experimentally-induced diel-cycling hypoxia and diel-cycling changes in pH. Here, we describe a protocol for developing an inexpensive strain gauge monitor and describe, in an example laboratory experiment, how we used it to measure the valve gape behavior of Eastern oysters (C. virginica), in response to diel-cycling hypoxia and cyclical changes in pH. Valve gape was measured on oysters subjected to cyclical severe hypoxic (0.6 mg/L) dissolved oxygen conditions with and without cyclical changes in pH, cyclical mild hypoxic (1.7 mg/L) conditions and normoxic (7.3 mg/L) conditions. We demonstrate that when oysters encounter repeated diel cycles, they rapidly close their shells in response to severe hypoxia and close with a time lag to mild hypoxia. When normoxia is restored, they rapidly open again. Oysters did not respond to cyclical pH conditions superimposed on diel cycling severe hypoxia. At reduced oxygen conditions, more than one third of the oysters closed simultaneously. We demonstrate that oysters respond to diel-cycling hypoxia, which must be considered when assessing the behavior of bivalves to dissolved oxygen. The valve SGM can be used to assess responses of bivalve molluscs to changes in dissolved oxygen or contaminants. Sealing techniques to better seal the valve gape strain gauges from sea water need further improvement to increase the longevity of the sensors.

A Strain Gauge Monitor SGM for Continuous Valve Gape Measurements in Bivalve Molluscs in Response to Laboratory Induced Diel-cycling Hypoxia and pH

Understanding the behavioral responses of bivalve suspension-feeders to environmental variables, such as dissolved oxygen, can explain some ecosystem processes. We have developed an inexpensive, laboratory-based, strain gauge monitor (SGM) to measure valve gape responses of oysters, Crassostrea virginica, to diel-cycling hypoxia and cyclical pH.

An inexpensive, laboratory-based, strain gauge valve gape monitor (SGM) was developed to monitor the valve gape behavior of bivalve molluscs in response ...

Combining Eye-tracking Data with an Analysis of Video Content from Free-viewing a Video of a Walk in an Urban Park Environment

As individuals increasingly live in cities, methods to study their everyday movements and the data that can be collected becomes important and valuable. Eye-tracking informatics are known to connect to a range of feelings, health conditions, mental states and actions. But because vision is the result of constant eye-movements, teasing out what is important from what is noise is complex and data intensive. Furthermore, a significant challenge is controlling for what people look at compared to what is presented to them.
The following presents a methodology for combining and analyzing eye-tracking on a video of a natural and complex scene with a machine learning technique for analyzing the content of the video. In the protocol we focus on analyzing data from filmed videos, how a video can be best used to record participants&#39; eye-tracking data, and importantly how the content of the video can be analyzed and combined with the eye-tracking data. We present a brief summary of the results and a discussion of the potential of the method for further studies in complex environments.

The objective of the protocol is to detail how to collect video data for use in the laboratory; how to record eye-tracking data of participants looking at the data and how to efficiently analyze the content of the videos that they were looking at using a machine learning technique.

As individuals increasingly live in cities, methods to study their everyday movements and the data that can be collected becomes important and valuable. ...

Evaluation of the Productivity of Social Wasp Colonies (Vespinae) and an Introduction to the Traditional Japanese Vespula Wasp Hunting Technique

For vespine wasps, colony productivity is typically estimated by counting the number of larval cells. This paper presents an improved method that enables researchers to estimate more accurately the number of adults produced, counting the number of meconia (the stools left in the cells by wasp larvae when pupating into adults, per 100 cells) in each comb. This method can be applied before or after colony collapse (i.e., in active or inactive nests). The paper also describes how to locate wild Vespula wasp colonies by &#34;flagging&#34; wasp baits and chasing the wasp collecting them, using a method traditionally performed by local people in central Japan (as illustrated in the associated video). The Vespula chasing method described has several advantages: it is easy to reinitiate the chase from a point where the forager flying back to the nest was lost, and it is easy to pinpoint the nest location as marked wasps often lose their flag at the nest entrance. These methods for estimating colony productivity and collecting nests can be valuable for researchers studying social wasps.

Evaluation of the Productivity of Social Wasp Colonies Vespinae and an Introduction to the Traditional Japanese Vespula Wasp Hunting Technique

This methodological paper evaluates the productivity of a social wasp colony by examining the number of meconia per 100 cells of comb, to estimate the total number of adults the wasps produced. The associated video describes how to search for Vespula wasp nests, a method developed by amateur wasp chasers.

For vespine wasps, colony productivity is typically estimated by counting the number of larval cells. This paper presents an improved method that enables ...

Investigation of Plant Interactions Across Common Mycorrhizal Networks Using Rotated Cores

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi influence plant mineral nutrient uptake and growth, hence, they have the potential to influence plant interactions. The power of their influence is in extraradical mycelia that spread beyond nutrient depletion zones found near roots to ultimately interconnect individuals within a common mycorrhizal network (CMN). Most experiments, however, have investigated the role of AM fungi in plant interactions by growing plants with versus without mycorrhizal fungi, a method that fails to explicitly address the role of CMNs. Here, we propose a method that manipulates CMNs to investigate their role in plant interactions. Our method uses modified containers with conical bottoms with a nylon mesh and/or hydrophobic material covering slotted openings, 15N fertilizer, and a nutrient-poor interstitial sand. CMNs are left either intact between interacting individuals, severed by rotation of containers, or prevented from forming by a solid barrier. Our findings suggest that rotating containers is sufficient to disrupt CMNs and prevent their effects on plant interactions across CMNs. Our approach is advantageous because it mimics aspects of nature, such as seedlings tapping into already established CMNs and the use of a suite of AM fungi that may provide diverse benefits. Although our experiment is limited to investigating plants at the seedling stage, plant interactions across CMNs can be detected using our approach which therefore can be applied to investigate biological questions about the functioning of CMNs in ecosystems.

Most plants within communities likely are interconnected by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, but mediation of plant interactions by them has been investigated primarily by growing plants with versus without mycorrhizas. We present a method to manipulate common mycorrhizal networks among mycorrhizal plants to investigate their consequences for plant interactions.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi influence plant mineral nutrient uptake and growth, hence, they have the potential to influence plant interactions. The ...