To estimate the population size of a flock of starlings, a sample of 45 birds is netted, banded, and released.One week later, a second sample of 50 birds is netted, and 15 of these birds are found to have bands on them.Based on these data, what is the best estimate of the starling flock's population size?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The proportion of banded birds in the second sample (15 out of 50) should equal the proportion of the original sample to the total population. Therefore, (15/50) = (45/N), solving for N gives N = 150.

To Estimate the Population Size of a Flock of Starlings