Janine Antalffy

Poster Presentation

REMOTE SENSING AND HABITAT MAPPING OF ANDROS, HOME OF A CRITICALLY ENDANGERED ISLAND ENDEMIC

Andros, the largest island complex in The Bahamas, is home to a diverse array of species, some of which are found nowhere else. The Bahama Oriole (Icterus northropi) is a critically endangered songbird restricted to Andros. As a species of conservation concern, little is known about this oriole’s life history traits and causes of population decline. Implementing effective conservation management strategies requires critical information regarding species-habitat relationships. To efficiently address this relationship and subsequently predict distribution, I will generate a habitat classification map for Andros using remote sensing with multispectral satellite and aerial hyperspectral imagery. I will use this map in conjunction with robust population estimates and distribution modelling to better understand the spatial and temporal distribution of the Bahama Oriole on Andros. This research will not only guide conservation efforts to benefit the Bahama Oriole, but will also provide a useful resource for the protection of other endangered species found on Andros.