Q37 - Windfarm Construction Disrupts Bird Populations More Than Operation

Theoretical A Real exam question - full text reproduced under IBO's CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 license

The UK is extending the world’s largest offshore windfarm in the North Sea. However, disruption to wind patterns, and other effects, causes difficulties for birds. Several windfarms were previously built in the habitats of red grouse (Lagopus lagopus scotica), snipe (Gallinago gallinago), skylark (Alauda arvensis), curlew (Numenius sp.), and meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis). The population density of these species was compared to undisturbed habitats before, during and after windfarm construction.

Figure for Q37: Windfarm Construction Disrupts Bird Populations More Than Operation

Using the information and data, determine which of the statements are true or which are false.

A. The process of windfarm construction reduces the red grouse population.

B. Of the species studied, finished windmills are only dangerous to curlews.

C. The study windfarm is located in better red grouse habitat than the control site.

D. An environmental change, other than windfarm construction, is harming the snipe population.

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Question reproduced from IBO 2017, Theoretical Exam A, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 - attributed to the International Biology Olympiad. Open the full exam PDF · Official answer key & worked solutions