My research area of interest is bioacoustics. By using new acoustic technology, we can learn a lot about diversity and behaviour. I am keen to research this further and use skills learnt in the use of sound in my science communication work.
Using a bioacoustic approach to monitor bird and bat behaviour and diversity in fragmented tropical forest
For my Masters research, I used AudioMoth technology to look at the viability of an acoustic approach to monitoring bird and bat diversity and behaviour in Belizean tropical forest. By placing devices across fragmented and primary forest, I was able to measure differences in biodiversity indices for both birds and bats. Acoustic analysis of pitch and frequency helped develop an understanding of how bird behaviour was affected.
This project also had an anthropological angle, as my field site sat within one of the most conservative Mennonite communities in central America. I worked with the community in the deployment of these devices and interviewed residents to gain a local understanding of biodiversity shifts in the region and some of the human-wildlife conflicts they encountered.
Assessing the effect of urban noise on European Robin vocalisations using an acoustic approach
For my undergraduate research, I first used acoustics to monitor European Robin vocalisations and how they varied in areas with high urban noise. By using a lure and shotgun microphone with remote triggering, I was able to record vocalisations across a range of habitats, with clear differences observed in those calling in urban environments.
Rob Knott 