Islamiat Raji
Urbanization is a major driver of biodiversity loss, and cities not only pose a significant challenge to biodiversity but also disrupt the connection between humans and nature, particularly in developing countries where green spaces are scarce. However, eco-friendly urban spaces like university campuses can act as biodiversity hotspots. Despite assumed similarities, cities and campuses differ significantly due to management practices and other conditions.
This project aims to conduct bird surveys across university campuses in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, to assess the impact of urbanization on bird populations and identify the factors that influence their persistence in these settings. Using standardized and innovative community science data collection methods, the project will involve students in recording bird sounds across the campuses. Engaging students in data collection promotes conservation involvement while contributing to the understanding of biodiversity in cities. This approach empowers students to participate in urban bird surveys using audio recordings and visual observations at predefined locations, ensuring comprehensive coverage, and including less accessible or frequently overlooked areas.
Our project has both ecological and educational objectives. It aims to contribute valuable data on urban bird biodiversity and provide insights into the effects of urbanization on wildlife. Concurrently, it will equip participating students with practical field skills in ecology and conservation, an important asset in Nigeria, where such opportunities are limited. Engaging students in this research fosters a deeper understanding of biodiversity, potentially inspiring future conservationists or urban planners who will advocate for ecologically informed development.
In the long term, the findings of this project will enable the monitoring of biodiversity changes over time in the survey locations, including shifts in bird species due to urbanization and climate change. The findings can inform conservation strategies and sustainable development practices, benefiting human and wildlife communities. Decision-makers can leverage our data to promote biodiversity-friendly policies on university campuses and beyond.