Title:

Climate Influences on White-Tailed Deer and Black-Capped Chickadee Densities in the Northeastern United States

This study examines how environmental factors influence the population densities of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and black-capped chickadees (Poecile atricapillus) across the northeastern United States. Using QGIS mapping and county-level correlations, I assessed relationships between species density and air temperature, precipitation, water quality, and urbanization. Results indicate that white-tailed deer are positively associated with warmer temperatures and urban area, and negatively associated with higher precipitation. In contrast, black-capped chickadee presence increases with colder temperatures and cleaner water. These findings suggest that ongoing climate change may lead to a shift in northeastern species composition, favoring more generalist or adaptable species like deer, while range-restricted or sensitive species like chickadees may decline or relocate. Understanding these patterns is critical for anticipating biodiversity changes and informing conservation strategies in response to changing climate and land use.

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