Aerial insectivore populations have been declining, and the reason for decline is unclear. There is recent concern over Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) populations, an aerial insectivore species, due to conflicting findings in current populations. We observed 20 sites in Harvard and Falmouth, Massachusetts from May through July, 2013 to identify factors that influenced site selection and nest success to improve understanding of Barn Swallow breeding behavior. Our data suggest that human activity can determine whether a site is selected for nesting, and that the presence of Eastern Phoebes (Sayornis phoebe) and European Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) can affect Barn Swallow nest success.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Eldredge, Mariah Genevieve
• Hester, Margaret Riley

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-100713-105042

Advisor

• Bakermans, Marja

Year

• 2013

Date created

• 2013-10-07

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright