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Estuarine ecosystems are important to the survival of both resident and migratory birds. These nutrient rich and sheltered waters provide critical over-wintering, rearing and nesting habitat. British Columbia's estuaries support Canada's largest wintering populations of waterbirds.
Several species of waterfowl remain on the North Island estuaries over-wintering and include: Black Brant, Trumpeter Swan, Golden Eye, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, Mallard, Green Winged Tea, American Widgeon and Northern Pintails. Peak waterfowl counts occur between the months of January to March in most North Island estuaries.
Great Blue Herons, Owls, Hawks and Eagles are also found utilizing the estuaries to hunt, roost, and nest. For more information on the bird species |
Semi-palmated Sandpiper
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North Island Wildlife Viewing Network
