EVE 101 Discussion HW 1

1) Feeder visitation is due to hummingbird density and proximity to feeders.

2) Independent Variable: Distance to feeders
3) Dependent Variable: The number of visits to each feeder per day.
4) A hummingbird will be placed in a nest such that two feeders are visible from the nest
but not each other. Each feeder will be the same shape and volume, just made of
different materials, either plastic or glass. Both feeders will be filled with the same
artificial nectar with the same concentration. The birds will be randomly assigned to one
of 3 groups, the control where both feeders are equidistant, or the experimental groups
where either the glass or plastic feeder is closer.
5) With no other food sources, the birds will be forced to choose between the feeders
instead of any natural sources. With only 1 bird per housing, there will be no
competition or overcrowding at one feeder, and any differences in local environment,
such as anthropogenic noise or other animals, will be eliminated too.
6) Hummingbirds with equidistant feeders will display no preference for either feeder,
while those in the experimental groups will prefer whichever feeder is closer to their
nest.

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