4.1.2 Survey databases
A variety of databases can be created to store data collected during surveys and monitoring programmes. They can include:
- Nest monitoring and count data.
- Camera and trapping data: This is designed mostly for invasive trapping or camera trapping, i.e., for camera, cage or any other kind of trapping data with tables to record effort and captures.
- Individual marking, recapturing, and tracking data: this is for ringing/ banding, the deployment of tracking devices, recapture and retrieval, as well as codes to process the data and upload it into the database.
Figures 127. Example pages from a breeding bird database using MS Access Database software - based on one developed for Gough Island, Atlantic Ocean. Supplied by Steffen Oppel.
Once you have an expectation how much data you will need to manage (and of what type), consult with a professional to get advice on what database architecture would be most efficient for your needs. If you want help to develop your own database contact the Pacific Seabird Advisory Group (see Section 5.2)