Statistical analysis of the results of the mid-winter counts is 
hampered by a large number of variable factors, such as differences be- 
tween areas, differences between observers, differences between weather 
conditions (including water levels), etc. The following figures, al- 
though preliminary in nature, will show that no appreciable change in 
population occurred from 1952 to 1953 in the areas sampled. (Further 
analyses are being conducted in order to determine the number of indivi- 
dual areas required to provide the required degree of accuracy. ) 
Table 19.--Summary of 1952 and 1953 snipe counts 
(using data from coverage on foot only) 


1952 1953 
Total areas covered both years 97 97 
Total snipe 5,550 1, ,607 
Total hours 269.95 22.17 
Total snipe / total hours 20.56 20.55 
| Percent change -0.1 % 
Mean S/H = _ Snipe per hour 21.16 18.36 
| Number of areas | 
Standard deviation 4.60 | 4.28 
Percent change -13.2 % 
Total states sampled 13 13 
Mean S/H = Snipe per hour 10.7h 10.69 
Number of states . 
Standard deviation 3.28 3027 
Percent change ~0.5 % 
5h 
