Sand Martin (Riparia riparia) nest-burrow occupancy and breeding success

In Switzerland, Sand Martin (Riparia riparia) breeding colonies occur in gravel pits, sand deposits, and artificial sand fills. A single colony can contain several hundred nest burrows of this endangered species. However, assessing nest-burrow occupancy and breeding success remains methodologically challenging. Preliminary trials suggest that thermal imaging has considerable potential as a standardized and scalable method for evaluating both nest-burrow occupancy and breeding success, enabling robust comparisons of reproductive performance across years and colonies. Nevertheless, a rigorous evaluation and standardized implementation framework must be developed.

The project aims to determine the proportion of occupied nest burrows and breeding success in different colonies, as well as to investigate differences among colony types and regions. Additionally, it will lay the groundwork for more accurate Sand Martin breeding population data, which is currently based on nest burrow counts at the end of the breeding season.

This master’s project involves both fieldwork and desktop work. Fieldwork consists of installing and maintaining a setup to collect time series of images from thermal imaging cameras. It also involves conducting observations at breeding colonies to verify nest-burrow occupancy and breeding success. Fieldwork will mainly take place on the Swiss Plateau (VD, BE, SO, AG, and ZH). Accommodation during fieldwork will be provided. Data analysis will be conducted at the Swiss Ornithological Institute in Sempach.

We are looking for a student who is interested in conservation biology and statistics and has a knack for technology. The ideal candidate enjoys fieldwork, works precisely, takes initiative, and is willing to take on responsibility. A driver’s license and fluency in German or French are required. Prior experience with R and QGIS is desirable. This master’s project should begin no later than March 2027. Fieldwork will take place between April and August 2027.

The student will be part of the Applied Research Unit at the Swiss Ornithological Institute and will be supervised by Matthias Vögeli, Deputy Head of the Unit.