Resurveying California's Wildlife

KQED, Teachers' Domain

In this video, students learn how scientific surveys of wildlife are performed at a site in Yosemite, California. These surveys, in conjunction with studies from the early 1900s, provide evidence that animal populations in Yosemite have shifted over time in response to rising temperatures.

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Notes from our reviewers

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Educator can tie in Joseph Grinnell's observation that humans impact the environment.
The video contains a discussion of the original wildlife surveys done by Grinnell. The specimens collected around 1908 have provided a basis of comparison for recent re-surveys in Yosemite. These comparisons indicate that as temperatures rise, low-altitude species are shifting their habitat up in elevation or are dying out. The next effect is a loss of genetic diversity. Comments from expert scientist: Scientific strengths: - Provides history of wildlife surveys and shows the importance of the records - Shows importance of field notes and maps - Shows that animals have moved to higher elevations (9 species of small mammals) - Shows that some animals (alpine chipmunks) have not moved elevation, but rather have died off - Introduces natural selection and biodiversity significance
The material is presented in a story-like format with historic photographs and a strong human interest element. It describes the original Grinnell survey, the development of specimen collections, and the comparison with the recent survey. A good blend of how science and observations of the past are used in the context of modern science and technology. Can be used to teach the nature of science because it shows how data collected in the past can be used with current studies for comparison. There is a lesson plan, educator's guide, and background material on the web page for this video.