Aerial-Visibility Bias and Survey Techniques for Nesting Bald Eagles in Northwestern Ontario

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Abstract
An experiment was conducted during April and June 1978 to estimate aerial-visibility bias in searches for bald eagle (H. leucocephalus) nests in northwestern Ontario, Canada. Randomly selected quadrats were searched independently by 2 separate teams of pilots and observers. By joint binomial probabilities or Petersen Index calculations, approximately 76% of the nests or 85% of the breeding areas were found on a single search of shoreline. There were no differences (P > 0.05) in visibility due to season or observer, although undetected differences among observers may exist (i.e., type-II error). Aerial surveys of this type can be hazardous; 1 aircraft crashed during the project. Recommendations for standardized searches, and suggestions to improve safety are given.

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