Ant abundance, species richness and diversity in Swiss grasslands and vineyards

Ground-dwelling ants are widespread across Switzerland and are an important food source for birds, particularly specialist species such as the wryneck and other woodpeckers. However, knowledge of their distribution patterns remains limited and scattered. Moreover, little is known about ant abundance in different open habitats, or about how species richness and diversity vary among habitats and over time.

This project aims to determine the abundance, species richness and diversity of ground-dwelling ants across grassland types and vineyards in Northern Switzerland. The resulting insights into the diet of the wryneck and other woodpecker species will support improved conservation management.

This master’s project focuses on data analysis and writing, using data at over 80 locations in Northern Switzerland collected and processed in 2020 and 2021. The working schedule and location are flexible, although data analysis will mostly be conducted at the Swiss Ornithological Institute in Sempach.

We are looking for a student with an interest in data management, analysis and statistics. The ideal candidate works precisely, takes initiative and is willing to take responsibility. Fluency in German or French is required. Experience with R and QGIS is desirable. The project schedule can be tailored to the student’s needs and availability.

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