Section 3 recording
Wetland Bird Survey Project
You will hear two ecology students, Harriet and Zachary, discussing their field study on bird populations at a nature reserve.
2 speakers · British and North American English · 4:19
In the real test you hear each recording once. Read the questions first, then play it through without pausing.
Go to the questions ↓Questions 1–7
Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.
1Why did Harriet and Zachary choose to survey birds at the inland freshwater pools?
- AIt offered better sightlines than the alternative location suggested by staff.
- BThe coastal mudflats were closed for scheduled maintenance work.
- CThe reserve wardens advised them that water levels were ideal there.
2Which equipment issue caused Harriet the greatest concern?
- AThe tripod mechanism jammed during early morning observations.
- BThe digital camera failed to focus in low light levels.
- CThe battery on the sound recorder stopped working.
3Harriet explains that the dunlin population was higher than expected because
- Aredshanks had migrated away from the mudbanks earlier than usual.
- Bweather conditions over the winter had been exceptionally mild.
- Chabitat clearing on the northern bank had created new feeding areas.
4What was the main reason the students found the dawn surveys more successful than dusk surveys?
- AThere was less noise disturbance from passing aircraft.
- BThe lighting conditions made it easier to identify bird plumage.
- CThe morning mist encouraged the birds to stay closer to the shore.
5What data entry mistake did Zachary identify in the mapping software?
- AHe categorised young birds as adult breeding pairs.
- BHe entered incorrect map coordinates for flock locations.
- CHe accidentally deleted records from the previous survey.
6Harriet believes visitor disturbance is continuing mainly because
- Awarning signs along the main track are poorly positioned.
- Bthe boundary fence is too low to prevent people crossing it.
- Cdog walkers are unaware of seasonal breeding restrictions.
7Which task do Harriet and Zachary need to finish before their meeting with Dr Henderson?
- AWrite the draft of their background literature review.
- BComplete the section explaining their survey methodology.
- CProduce charts that illustrate seasonal population trends.
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