Question

For an avian research study, scientists wanted to estimate the local robin population. The scientists captured, tagged, and released 55 robins. A week later, they noted 30 tagged robins out of the 300 robins they counted. To the nearest whole number, what is the best estimate for the robin population?

Answer 1

Answer: The estimated number of robins in the population is 550

Explanation: To estimate the population of robins, we will use the Mark-Recapture technique:

1) Capture a small number of individuals, mark them (with tags or other harmless identification) and release them;

2) After a period of time, catch another group and count the ones who have the mark;

3) Estimate the population using:

`N=(M*C)/(R)`

where

N is the estimate of individuals in the population

M number of individuals marked

C is the total number of individuals captured the second time

R is the number of individuals with the mark recaptured

For the population of robins:

`N=(55*300)/(30)`

`N=(16500)/(30)`

N = 550

The best estimate for the robin population is 550.