About
This dataset contains daily estimated totals (DET) from the Brier Island Bird Migration Research Station. DET is a standard protocol used by Canadian Migration Monitoring Network stations to estimate the total number of individuals of each species occurring at a site during migration.
Season(s) and frequency
fall
Geographic area covered
From Newfoundland to British Columbia; Member stations in NS, QC, ON (6), MI, MB, SK, AB (3), and BC (2). Pilot stations in NF, PEI, NB, ON, BC and YK.
Primary species covered
Primary focus is landbirds (104 priority species) but some stations also monitor waterbirds, raptors.
Goals
To generate counts of migrating birds for use in long-term population monitoring, especially landbird species not monitored by current breeding or winter surveys; To carry out cooperative research projects on the ecology of migrating birds.
Methods
Sampling Design
Standardized captures and observations used to derive daily estimated total throughout migration window.
Field methods
Combination of standardized daily captures, census, visible migration counts and other observations resulting in a daily estimated total for each species.
Analysis methods
Most stations produce some form of annual report for members.
Advice
Any disruption to standardized operations relevant to appropriate interpretation of analytical results is noted in a regularly-updated section of the station protocol. As of 2025, it had been noted that the station did not operate in 2020 or 2021 due to covid restrictions.