To Estimate the Population Size of a Flock of Starlings

question 190

Multiple Choice

To estimate the population size of a flock of starlings, a sample of 45 birds is netted, banded, and released.One week later, a second sample of 50 birds is netted, and 15 of these birds are found to have bands on them.Based on these data, what is the best estimate of the starling flock's population size?

• A) 105
• B) 150
• C) 675
• D) 750
• E) 3,000

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Definitions:

Surface Tension

Force that holds moist membranes together due to the attraction of water molecules through hydrogen bonds.

Water Molecules

The smallest unit of water (H2O), consisting of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom, essential for most forms of life on Earth.

Hydrogen Bonding

A weak bond between two molecules resulting from an electrostatic attraction between a proton in one molecule and an electronegative atom in the other.

Ice

Water frozen into a solid state, typically at or below 0°C (32°F).