How Vegetation Greenness Shapes the Migration of the Swainson’s Thrush

The Swainson’s Thrush (Catharus ustulatus) is a long-distance migratory bird whose annual journey across the Americas is closely linked to seasonal changes in vegetation. Using monthly NDVI data (January–December), this study shows how the species follows areas of high vegetation productivity throughout the year. During January–February, Swainson’s Thrushes remain in the green tropical forests of South America, where food is abundant.

As NDVI increases across Central America in March–April, the birds begin their northward migration, tracking newly growing vegetation. Peak NDVI in May–June across Canada and Alaska supports breeding by providing high insect availability. When vegetation declines in July–August, the birds prepare for migration by storing energy. In September–October, they move south through forested corridors and productive stopover habitats. By November–December, rising NDVI in the Amazon signals a return to wintering grounds. This simple NDVI-based visualization highlights how seasonal vegetation dynamics guide migration routes and demonstrates the value of remote sensing for understanding and conserving migratory birds.

SWAINSON’S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus)

A small, shy, and beautifully melodic songbird that migrates thousands of kilometres across the Americas. Known for its spiral, flute-like call, the Swainson’s Thrush prefers dense forests, thickets, and cool woodlands — often staying hidden but filling the air with music. This species is also a remarkable long-distance migrant, travelling from North America to South America each year. Its migration showcases incredible endurance and the importance of protecting stopover habitats along the flyways.

Global Air Masses & Ocean Currents

Sharing a detailed world map that illustrates how air masses, prevailing winds, and major ocean currents interact to shape global climate systems. This visualization highlights the powerful movement of heat and energy across our planet’s atmosphere and oceans.

Key features shown:Line one.
• Global air masses and pressure zonesLine one.
• Prevailing wind systems (Trades, Westerlies, Monsoons, etc.)Line one.
• Warm and cold ocean currentsLine one.
• Seasonal atmospheric circulation patterns

Mapping Bald Eagle Abundance Across North America

Bald Eagle populations shift across the continent throughout the year. Northern eagles migrate south as winter freezes their hunting grounds, while many in the lower U.S. remain resident year-round. My map highlights where Bald Eagles are most abundant during the breeding season and non-breeding season, showing how habitat, climate, and prey availability shape their movement patterns. A beautiful reminder of how dynamic and resilient this species is and how spatial data helps us understand wildlife at a continental scale.

Mapping the Range of Hylochoerus meinertzhageni

The giant forest hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni) is one of Africa’s most fascinating and elusive mammals. Native to the dense forests of central and western Africa, this species remains relatively understudied, making every bit of data about its distribution valuable. This map illustrates the known geographic range of the species, highlighting areas where it naturally occurs. Understanding its distribution is crucial for conservation, ecological research, and biodiversity monitoring.

By visualizing its range, researchers and conservationists can identify priority areas for protection, study habitat preferences, and track changes in populations over time. Mapping species distributions is a powerful tool. It not only informs scientific research and conservation strategies but also helps raise awareness about lesser-known wildlife and the importance of preserving Africa’s rich biodiversity.

Data Source: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hylochoerus_meinertzhageni_range_map.png] Projection: Orthographic

By making species range information accessible and visual, we can better understand and protect the ecosystems that sustain them.

Global Sea Surface Temperature

Have you ever wondered how warm or cold our oceans really are and how that changes across the planet? Using global sea surface temperature data (°C), I visualized how heat moves across our oceans from the equatorial warmth to the icy polar edges. Each gradient tells a story of balance, energy, and climate rhythm shaping life on Earth. Mapping such patterns reminds me how interconnected our planet truly is every wave and current contributes to the story of our changing climate.

Range of the Jaguarundi (Puma yagouaroundi)

I’m excited to share a recent cartography project: a map illustrating the geographic range of the Jaguarundi, a small and elusive wild cat native to the Americas. The map highlights breeding areas and surrounding regions, using a warm, natural palette inspired by the species’ distinctive coat — rusty red, chestnut, and cinnamon-brown. These colors not only reflect the Jaguarundi’s appearance but also the earthy habitats it occupies, helping the visualization feel both informative and visually appealing. This project combines cartographic design, GIS analysis, and ecological storytelling, with the goal of making spatial data about biodiversity clear, accurate, and engaging.

Mapping species ranges like this is important for raising awareness about habitat conservation and the ecological roles these animals play. For designers and scientists alike, presenting such data in a visually compelling way can make complex ecological information accessible to a wider audience. Key skills demonstrated in this project: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Data visualization and map design Color theory for ecological illustration Scientific communication through visual media I hope this map encourages curiosity and appreciation for lesser-known species like the Jaguarundi, and inspires others to consider how design can support conservation efforts.