Dataset

British Columbia Coastal Waterbirds Survey

About

Season(s) and frequency

monthly with an emphasis from September to April

Geographic area covered

Coastal British Columbia

Primary species covered

waterbirds

Goals

The BCCWS has the following specific objectives: to assess the annual changes and long-term trends in population size and distribution of coastal waterbirds in BC., to collect data that contribute to population estimates of coastal waterbird species in BC., and to advance our understanding of the ecology and the effects of human activity on coastal waterbirds in BC.

Methods

Sampling Design

In populated areas, sites were set up by coordinator, but in remote, or uncovered areas, participants select their own sites

Field methods

Observers count all waterbirds, by species, at regular (2nd Sunday of each month) intervals at specfic locations so that coordinated information on distribution and migration over a broad area can be acquired. Surveys are conducted as close to high tide as possible, and in the same manner each time.

Analysis methods

Scientific review of data in 2002, annual newsletter

Partners

Citation

Birds Canada and Canadian Wildlife Service. 2025. "British Columbia Coastal Waterbirds Survey". Data accessed from NatureCounts, Birds Canada. 10.71842/1azg-s486