A troubling bird die-off has been reported along the shores of Lake Ontario, prompting a comprehensive scientific investigation. Researchers are exploring potential changes in the lake's water that may be linked to this alarming event, while also evaluating the overall severity of the situation. Given the international implications of the lake's territorial divide, this issue is being escalated to Congress.
To shed light on this mystery, a brief video highlights five key areas of concern: water chemistry, predation, hydraulic fracturing, invasive species, and contaminants in the food chain. As the exact cause remains uncertain, your class has been selected to utilize inquiry skills and observations to assist in solving this critical issue.
Student Activities
Students will participate in several essential activities to aid the investigation:
Owl Pellet Dissection: Analyzing owl pellets will provide valuable insights into the diet and health of local predatory birds.
X-rays of Bird Stomachs: These X-rays will help identify the current food sources of the birds.
Water Analysis: Students will test the lake water for vital indicators such as nitrate/nitrite levels, bacteria, lead, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and pesticides to understand the health of the lake's ecosystem.
Invasive Species Identification: Students will examine specimens to assess their origins, current impacts on the lake, and potential threats to bird populations.
Water Shedding Model: This model will be utilized to evaluate whether chemicals are entering the water and contributing to the die-off.
No single group can determine the cause alone, so each team will receive additional information to collaborate effectively on this complex case. Your contributions are crucial in uncovering the truth behind this environmental crisis.
