Conspicuous Raptor and
Great Blue Heron Study
APRIL 2015
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Preface
Technical studies were initiated in 2014 to support both ongoing Project planning and future
permitting and approval requirements. Since the technical studies were initiated prior to
finalizing the scope of the proposed Project, the scope of some studies consider physical
activities and spatial areas that are beyond the scope of the Project assessed under the B.C.
Environmental Assessment Act. The results of future studies will be presented in the
Environmental Assessment Certificate Application that will be prepared for the Project.
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Executive Summary
The B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (Ministry) is proposing the George
Massey Tunnel Replacement Project (Project) to meet regional, provincial, and national
transportation management goals. The proposed Project involves replacing the George Massey
Tunnel (Tunnel) with a new bridge spanning the Fraser River South Arm and Deas Island,
decommissioning the Tunnel, and improving Highway 99 between Bridgeport Road in Richmond
and Highway 91 in Delta.
To support project planning and future permitting and approval requirements, the Ministry
initiated studies to document existing conditions of environmental components that could
potentially be affected by the Project. A study of conspicuous raptors and herons was
conducted as part of the environmental program for the Project.
The study focused on conspicuous species as described in the Resource Inventory Committee
Inventory Methods for Raptors. Conspicuous raptors include turkey vulture, osprey, eagles,
most hawks, and some falcons. The study area included roadside areas from Bridgeport Road
in Richmond, to Beach Road in Surrey (near the Canada‒U.S. border), within 1000 m from
either side of the Highway 99 centreline.
Roadside surveys for conspicuous raptors and herons were conducted in spring, summer,
autumn, and winter 2014. Data collection and assessment of the environmental resources in the
study area entailed the following tasks:
A desktop review of relevant available information
Field work to characterize the species composition, seasonal abundance, and
distribution of raptors and herons in the study area
Field work to identify nests of herons and raptors in the study area
The conspicuous raptor fauna of the study area consists mainly of bald eagle and red-tailed
hawk. Overall, observed numbers of raptors were highest during the spring surveys (725
detections), followed by winter (297), summer (243), and then autumn (46). Great blue herons
were observed fairly consistently throughout the spring, summer, and autumn, with highest
recorded numbers in winter (38 detections).
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Raptor detections were concentrated in four broadly classified areas: the area near the
Vancouver Landfill, agricultural areas between 88th Street and the Highway 99/Highway 91
interchange, the area near the Serpentine and Nicomekl rivers, and Deas Slough and Deas
Island. Great blue herons were seen most frequently between 96 Street and the Highway
99/Highway 91 Interchange in Delta, and between Mud Bay Park and the Nicomekl River.
A total of 14 raptor nests were identified in the study area, eight of which were active in 2014.
Four nests are located near the Tunnel. Bald eagle nests are afforded protection year-round
under the provincial Wildlife Act and must not be disturbed or destroyed. Red-tailed hawk nests
are protected when occupied by a bird or its egg. On the B.C. south coast, red-tailed hawk eggs
or young may be present from approximately February 26 to August 10.
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Abbreviations and Acronyms
Term Definition
B.C. British Columbia
CDC B.C. Conservation Data Centre
COSEWIC Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada
Ministry Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
MOE Ministry of Environment
ROW right-of-way
SARA Species at Risk Act
SFPR South Fraser Perimeter Road
SC Special Concern
Tunnel George Massey Tunnel
Glossary
Term Definition
Blue List, blue-listed The B.C. CDC designation for species considered to be of special concern (formerly vulnerable) in British Columbia.
Extirpated Species that no longer exist in the wild in B.C. but occur elsewhere.
Highway 99 Corridor The right-of-way owned by the Province of B.C. for Highway 99 from the Peace Arch Canada-U.S. border crossing in Surrey to the Oak Street Bridge in Richmond.
Project disturbance area
All lands and lands under water, except the Project footprint, which are subject to disturbance during Project construction and required for maintenance activities during Project operation.
Red List, red-listed The B.C. CDC designation for species considered extirpated, endangered, or threatened.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface .......................................................................................................................................... i
Executive Summary .................................................................................................................... ii
Abbreviations and Acronyms ................................................................................................... iv
Glossary ...................................................................................................................................... iv
1.0 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Study Background ................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Study Rationale ..................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Study Objectives ................................................................................................... 3
2.0 Review of Available Literature and Data ....................................................................... 4
2.1 Raptors .................................................................................................................. 4
2.2 Great Blue Heron ................................................................................................ 10
3.0 Methods ......................................................................................................................... 12
3.1 Study Area ........................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Temporal Scope .................................................................................................. 12
3.3 Roadside Survey Methods .................................................................................. 13
3.4 Nest Search Methods .......................................................................................... 13
4.0 Results ........................................................................................................................... 14
4.1 Presence and Abundance ................................................................................... 14
4.2 Distribution .......................................................................................................... 17
4.2.1 Raptors ................................................................................................. 17
4.2.2 Great Blue Heron .................................................................................. 17
4.3 Nests ................................................................................................................... 17
5.0 Discussion ..................................................................................................................... 20
5.1 Key Findings ........................................................................................................ 20
5.2 Data Gaps and Limitations .................................................................................. 21
6.0 Closure ........................................................................................................................... 22
7.0 Statement of Limitations .............................................................................................. 23
8.0 References ..................................................................................................................... 24
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Listed Conspicuous Raptor and Heron Species Known to Occur in Study Area ... 3
Table 2 Conspicuous Raptor and Heron Study Components and Major Objectives .......... 3
Table 3 Raptors Reported in the Boundary Bay Regional Park Bird Checklist .................. 5
Table 4 General Habitat Requirements for Conspicuous Raptor Species in Study Area ... 7
Table 5 Roadside Survey Schedule ................................................................................. 12
Table 6 Observed Raptor and Heron Abundance during Roadside Surveys ................... 14
Table 7 Seasonal Abundance of Conspicuous Raptors and Herons during Roadside
Surveys ............................................................................................................... 16
Table 8 Raptor Nests ....................................................................................................... 18
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A Figures
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1.0 Introduction
This report presents the objectives, methods, and findings of the conspicuous raptors and great
blue heron study undertaken to support project planning, as well as future permitting and
approval requirements for the George Massey Tunnel Replacement Project (Project).
1.1 Study Background
The B.C. Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (Ministry) is proposing the Project to meet
regional and provincial transportation management goals. To support project planning and
future environmental permitting and approval, the Ministry initiated studies in early 2014 to
understand and document existing conditions of environmental components that could
potentially be affected by the Project.
Because the studies were planned prior to the Project scope being finalized, a broader spatial
area was considered to accommodate potential refinements in the Project design. This broader
spatial scope was established based on a general understanding that the Project would involve
modifications of the Highway 99 corridor, including replacement of the George Massey Tunnel
(Tunnel) with a clear-span bridge, removal of all or part of the Tunnel, and replacement or
upgrade of interchanges and widening of the highway as required.
1.2 Study Rationale
The B.C. Wildlife Act, RSBC, 1996, c. 488 affords protection to individual raptors and herons,
their occupied nests, and their eggs against injury, molestation, or destruction. The nests of
bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), gyrfalcon
(Falco rusticolus), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), herons, and burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia)
are protected year-round under the Wildlife Act, even when unoccupied.
Raptors and herons are also considered to have social and cultural importance. In the context of
the Project, conspicuous raptors and herons are those birds that are easily observed within the
Project area, and are therefore the wildlife component that is most commonly observed by
members of the public while using Highway 99.
For raptors, this study focuses on conspicuous species as described in Inventory Methods for
Raptors (RIC 2001). Conspicuous raptors include turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), osprey
(Pandion haliaetus), eagles, most hawks, and some falcons (RIC 2001). These species
generally use large nests in open habitats, exhibit soaring flight patterns, and display open
perching behaviour. As such, they are considered to comprise the majority of the raptor species
present in and near the Highway 99 right-of-way (ROW).
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Inconspicuous raptors differ from conspicuous species in that they use concealed nest sites,
can be nocturnal, and utilize secretive hunting strategies (RIC 2001). The inconspicuous raptor
group includes most owl species, accipiters, and merlin (Falco columbarius). Observations of
inconspicuous raptors that were encountered during this study are noted in this report; however,
the study techniques employed are not designed to detect inconspicuous species. The potential
for the presence of inconspicuous species within the Highway 99 ROW is considered low due to
limited availability of forested habitat. Barn owl is addressed in a separate report for the Project
and is not considered further in this report.
The methods used for raptors in this study were considered to also apply to great blue heron
(Ardea herodias) since this species exhibits many of the characteristics of a conspicuous raptor
(e.g., uses open habitats and builds large nests).
The managed open grassy verges and ditches of the Highway 99 ROW provide habitat for small
mammals, amphibians, and minnows, which can attract foraging raptors and herons to the area.
Trees and tall structures in and near the Highway 99 ROW may also provide suitable substrate
for raptor and heron nesting.
The conspicuous raptor and heron grouping of birds that are known to occur in the study area
(see Section 3.1) includes three species that have been identified by federal and provincial
regulators as being of conservation concern, described as follows and in Table 1:
Rough-legged hawk (Buteo lagopus) is Blue-listed by the B.C. Ministry of Environment
(MOE) Conservation Data Centre (CDC), meaning that it is considered a species of
Special Concern in B.C. (i.e., sensitive to human activities or natural events, but not
considered Endangered or Threatened) (B.C. CDC 2014).
Peregrine falcon, anatum subspecies (Falco peregrinus anatum) is Red-listed in B.C.
(i.e., considered Endangered or Threatened). It is also listed as Special Concern by the
federal Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), and
under Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act (SARA), SC 2002, c. 29.
The fannini subspecies of great blue heron is Blue-listed provincially, and is considered
a species of Special Concern by COSEWIC and under Schedule 1 of SARA. Great blue
heron is listed on the B.C. MOE Category of Species at Risk and their nests are
therefore eligible for species-specific management where they occur on Crown land. The
management is enabled by the Government Actions Regulation (Government of B.C.
2004) under the Forest and Range Practices Act, SBC 2002, c. 69. Management
objectives and General Wildlife Measures are detailed in the species account for the
Identified Wildlife Management Strategy (B.C. MWLAP 2004).
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Table 1 Listed Conspicuous Raptor and Heron Species Known to Occur in Study Area
Common Name Scientific Name COSEWIC SARA Schedule 1
B.C. List Identified Wildlife
Rough-legged hawk
Buteo lagopus Not at risk
May 1995
Not identified
Blue No
Peregrine falcon, anatum subspecies
Falco peregrinus anatum
SC
Apr 2007
SC
Jun 2012 Red No
Great blue heron, fannini subspecies
Ardea herodias fannini
SC
Mar 2008
SC
Feb 2010 Blue
Yes
May 2004
SC=Special Concern
1.3 Study Objectives
The conspicuous raptor and heron study consists of three components: a review of available
literature for relevant species-specific information pertaining to the study area (see Section 3.1),
a series of seasonal roadside surveys, and a springtime search for nests. These components
and their objectives are summarized in Table 2. Surveys were undertaken to determine the
species composition, distribution, and seasonal abundance of conspicuous raptors and great
blue heron in the study area.
Table 2 Conspicuous Raptor and Heron Study Components and Major Objectives
Component Objective Brief Overview
Literature review of pertinent information and observations within the study area
Compile, describe, and summarize existing knowledge based on available data and previous studies.
Based on available information, assess availability and quality of breeding and non-breeding habitats for identified species of concern.
Roadside surveys for conspicuous raptors and herons
Identify level of use by foraging conspicuous raptors and great blue herons in the study area.
Conduct seasonal roadside surveys of the Highway 99 ROW and document observations of raptors and herons.
Nest searches Identify conspicuous raptor or heron nests within the study area.
Conduct early spring searches (prior to leaf out) for stick nests. Determine nest activity, if possible.
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2.0 Review of Available Literature and Data
Since the study area is a highly visible roadside in a heavily populated region, the seasonal
abundance of conspicuous raptors and herons is relatively well described, most recently
through studies related to the South Fraser Perimeter Road (SFPR) project. The results of the
review of available literature and data are below.
2.1 Raptors
The Fraser River delta is home to Canada’s highest concentration of wintering raptors (Butler
and Campbell 1987). Boundary Bay, Roberts Bank, and Sturgeon Bank, including the adjacent
upland habitats, have collectively been designated as an Important Bird Area (ID B.C.017,
BirdLife Canada 2014). Nowhere else in Canada are winter populations of rough-legged hawk,
red-tailed hawk, and northern harrier (Circus cyaneus) as numerous or as dense (Butler and
Campbell 1987). Raptors that are present in the Fraser River delta during the winter season
include resident species, species that overwinter, and some species that occur rarely or
accidentally.
According to the Boundary Bay Regional Park bird checklist (Mol 2002), 23 species of
raptor have been recorded in the park, which is adjacent to a portion of the Highway 99 ROW
(Table 3). Of all raptor species reported in the park, 12 are considered to be conspicuous
species (Table 3) (RIC 2001). Bald eagle is the only raptor considered to be fairly common in
the park, with five to 25 sightings recorded per day in summer and autumn (Mol 2002).
Six conspicuous raptor species are considered rare but regular (i.e., one to 10 records
per year): American kestrel (Falco sparverius), gyrfalcon, peregrine falcon, red-tailed hawk,
rough-legged hawk, and turkey vulture. Northern harrier is reported as uncommon in all seasons
(one to five sightings per day, with at least 10 records per year). Golden eagle
(Aquila chrysaetos), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), and prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus), are
reported as casual occurrences only (two to 10 total records per year in the checklist area).
Northern hawk-owl has only been documented once within the Boundary Bay Regional Park
and surrounding area, i.e., accidental occurrence (Mol 2002).
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Table 3 Raptors Reported in the Boundary Bay Regional Park Bird Checklist
Common Name Scientific Name Seasonal Relative Abundance
Spring Summer Fall Winter
Conspicuous species*
American kestrel Falco sparverius rare rare rare casual
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
common fairly common
fairly common
common
Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos casual - - -
Gyrfalcon F. rusticolus casual - - rare
Northern harrier Circus cyaneus uncommon uncommon uncommon uncommon
Northern hawk-owl
Surnia ulula - - - accidental
Osprey Pandion haliaetus - casual casual -
Peregrine falcon F. peregrinus uncommon rare uncommon uncommon
Prairie falcon F. mexicanus - - - casual
Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis uncommon rare uncommon uncommon
Rough-legged hawk
B. lagopus rare - rare rare
Turkey vulture Cathartes aura rare casual rare casual
Inconspicuous species*
Barn owl Tyto alba rare rare rare rare
Barred owl Strix varia - - - accidental
Cooper’s hawk A. cooperii uncommon uncommon uncommon uncommon
Great horned owl
Bubo virginianus - - casual -
Long-eared owl Asio otus - - - accidental
Merlin F. columbarius rare rare - casual
Northern goshawk
A. gentilis - - casual casual
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Common Name Scientific Name Seasonal Relative Abundance
Spring Summer Fall Winter
Sharp-shinned hawk
A. striatus rare - rare rare
Short-eared owl Asio flammeus rare rare rare rare
Snowy owl Bubo scandiacus - - - casual
Western screech-owl
Megascops kennicottii
- - - accidental
Source: Mol 2002 Notes: *Classified as conspicuous or inconspicuous based on Inventory Methods for Raptors (RIC 2001). Seasonal Relative Abundance is the abundance of each species, within each season. Seasons are defined as:
Spring = (March - May; including spring migrants) Summer = (June - mid August; including spring arrival and fall departure) Autumn = mid-August - November; including fall migrants Winter = November/December - February; including fall arrival and spring departure) Abundance is described as: common = 25 or more sightings per day fairly common = from five to 24 sightings per day uncommon = from one to four sightings per day, with at least 10 records per year rare, but regular = one to 10 records per year casual = two to 10 documented records in checklist area accidental = only one documented record in checklist area “-“ = not recorded
A summary of general habitat requirements (breeding and non-breeding) for key conspicuous
raptor species present in the study area is provided in Table 4. Habitat requirements have been
summarized only for conspicuous raptor species considered to be common, fairly common,
uncommon, or rare but regular (as defined in Table 3, above). Species reported as casual or
accidental (i.e., golden eagle, northern hawk owl, osprey, and prairie falcon) have not been
included in Table 4.
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Table 4 General Habitat Requirements for Conspicuous Raptor Species in Study Area
Species Breeding Habitat 1 Non-breeding Habitat 1 Presence in the Study Area
American kestrel
Utilizes woodpecker holes, natural cavities, and nests of other species. Prefers open or partly open habitat, particularly woodland edges.
Prefers open habitats such as rangeland, grassland, farm fields, meadows and marshes, especially areas with adjacent perching sites including fence posts, utility poles, wires, and trees.
Likely present spring through autumn. Small numbers may overwinter near the study area.
Bald eagle
Breeds mainly in coniferous forests but also in deciduous or mixed woodlands. Often found near the ocean, lakes, rivers, or marshes. A key habitat component for bald eagle breeding is large trees that can support their nests.
Largely associated with aquatic areas such as ocean shores, lakes, rivers, marshes, and sloughs; however, individuals can be found in a broad array of habitat types.
Resident species potentially present in the study area year-round. Nesting confirmed in the study area.
Gyrfalcon Holarctic; breeds on cliff ledges in the Arctic, including Alaska. Does not breed in the Lower Mainland.
Winters south of the breeding range and sighted occasionally in the Lower Mainland. Wintering habitat is associated with areas where prey species (waterfowl, gulls, shorebirds, and pigeons) are concentrated, such as tidal flats, marshes, sloughs, and wet agricultural fields. May also utilize artificial habitats such as airports, golf courses, and city parks.
Gyrfalcon is a rare winter visitant
Northern harrier
Ground-nesting species that prefers cattail/bulrush marshes. Nesting sites are located in open areas including lake margins, pond edges, open fields, bogs, and forested areas that have experienced recent fire disturbance.
Prefers marshes, sloughs, open fields, as well as manmade habitats such as airports, golf courses, and road edges.
Potentially present year-round.
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Species Breeding Habitat 1 Non-breeding Habitat 1 Presence in the Study Area
Peregrine falcon
Breeding sites are limited to cliff ledges or trees on islands.
Associated with habitats that support large numbers of prey species (i.e., small to medium-sized birds such as shorebirds and waterfowl). These areas include tidal flats, marshes, estuaries, flooded fields, airports, parks, golf courses, and rail yards.
Has the potential to occur in the study area year-round; however, appropriate breeding habitat is not available in or adjacent to the study area.
Red-tailed hawk
Found in open and semi-open areas such as woodland edges, agricultural areas with available perch sites, lake and edges, marshes, or bogs. Nesting sites include trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) or black cottonwood groves (P. balsamifera trichocarpa), cliffs, burns, islands in rivers or lakes, or large trees adjacent to roads or highways.
Uses a broad array of open habitat types including agricultural fields and road margins.
Present in the study area year-round. Nesting confirmed within study area. Highest numbers occur in winter.
Rough-legged hawk
Breeds on cliffs in boreal forest regions. Does not breed in the Lower Mainland.
Prefers open areas such as marshes, grasslands, rangelands. Will also utilize agricultural fields and airports.
Overwinters in the Fraser River delta. Potentially present during spring and autumn migration as well. Not present during summer.
Turkey vulture
Breeds on the inner coast of southern B.C. but is generally restricted to remote areas on rocky cliffs and outcroppings. Small numbers may breed throughout the Fraser Lowlands to Hope.
Uses cliff and bluff habitat, open habitats such as pastures, fields, rangelands, roads and golf courses, as well as river mouths, and marine shores.
Breeding in the study area is unlikely due to a lack of appropriate habitat, but turkey vulture has the potential to be present throughout the year.
Notes: 1
Habitat use information derived from The Birds of B.C., Volume II Non-passerines: Diurnal Birds of Prey through Woodpeckers (Campbell et al. 1999).
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The Fraser River delta is well-studied, and several previous studies and inventory efforts have
characterized the abundance and distribution of raptors across the area. For example, a
summary of the ecology and population status of the birds of the Fraser River delta was
compiled by Butler and Campbell (1987). In this study, more raptors were observed in winter
than during the rest of the year, with the highest numbers occurring in December and the lowest
in June (Butler and Campbell 1987). The most abundant raptor species in winter was reported
to be northern harrier, followed by red-tailed hawk, short-eared owl, and rough-legged hawk
(Butler and Campbell 1987). A study of the distribution of raptors in the Boundary Bay area
determined that the highest densities of northern harrier, rough-legged hawk, and red-tailed
hawk were found in the vicinity of Boundary Bay Airport (between 72nd Street and 88th Street,
Delta) where the greatest amount of old-field habitat was also located (Butler 1992b). These
species were shown to prefer old-field and overgrown pasture habitat and to avoid cultivated
fields (Butler 1992b). Northern harrier distribution was also determined to be related to the
distance to foreshore habitat in Boundary Bay (Butler 1992b). Short-eared owl was observed
roosting and nesting on the ground in old fields near marsh habitat at Brunswick Point and
Boundary Bay Airport (Butler 1992b).
The Serpentine Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is located adjacent to the study area, to the
east of Highway 99, near 44th Avenue in Surrey. Red-tailed hawk and northern harrier are the
most commonly observed species of raptor within the Serpentine WMA (B.C. MELP 2000). Less
frequently but regularly observed species include bald eagle, rough-legged hawk, osprey,
American kestrel, and short-eared owl. Cooper’s hawk and sharp-shinned hawk have been
documented hunting at Serpentine Fen during winter. Northern harrier, red-tailed hawk, and
short-eared owl have been reported breeding within the area (B.C. MELP 2000).
Studies undertaken in 2003 and 2004 in support of the SFPR EA process documented
15 species of raptors in both open and forested habitats of the study area, a portion of which
overlaps with the study area (RESL 2006). In the SFPR studies, bald eagle and red-tailed
hawk were detected year-round from Bridgeport Road in Richmond to Beach Road
near the Canada‒U. S. border in Surrey. Northern harrier, American kestrel, peregrine falcon,
rough-legged hawk, and short-eared owl were primarily associated with open field habitat from
the south end of Ladner to the north end of Burns Bog (RESL 2006). Six nests were identified in
the vicinity of Highway 99 and belonged to either bald eagle or red-tailed hawk (RESL 2006).
Nests were all found in either black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera trichocarpa) or paper
birch (Betula papyrifera) (RESL 2006).
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2.2 Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron fannini subspecies (Ardea herodias fannini) is a non-migratory species
distributed along the Pacific coast of North America from Prince William Sound, Alaska to
Puget Sound, Washington (COSEWIC 2008). Best available population size estimates indicate
that Canada is home to approximately 4,000 to 5,000 nesting adults (COSEWIC 2008).
Population trends for the species vary, with some data indicating population decline and others
indicating population increase in the recent years (COSEWIC 2008). The Fraser River delta is
considered to support the largest winter populations of great blue heron in Canada (Butler and
Campbell 1987).
The Boundary Bay Regional Park bird checklist (Mol 2002) reports great blue heron as
commonly occurring during all seasons (i.e., more than 25 observed per day). The Serpentine
WMA bird checklist (B.C. MELP 2000) shows this species as frequent in all season (i.e., usually
observed on any visit to appropriate habitat in the appropriate season).
Heron foraging habitat consists of tidal mudflats, riverbanks, lakeshores, and wetlands (Butler
1992a, Butler 1997, Gebauer and Moul 2001). Prey items include fish, insects, crustaceans,
gastropods, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, and carrion (Kushlan 1976 cited in Butler
1991). Butler (1991) demonstrated that the number of herons feeding on beaches in the Strait of
Georgia was significantly correlated with the number of hours of low tide each month of the
year. Thus, the preferred foraging habitat of herons shifts throughout the year in relation to the
tide cycle. The timing of the tide in autumn and winter limits foraging opportunities across the
mudflats of the Fraser River delta. Consequently, fallow agricultural fields and grassland areas
become important foraging areas for herons during these seasons (Butler 1995, 1997, Gebauer
and Moul 2001). In winter, great blue herons have been reported to spread out across the
upland habitats of the Fraser River delta (Butler and Campbell 1987). In addition, juveniles and
post-breeding adults utilize marshlands and grasslands during the times of year when their
energetic demands cannot be met by foraging on the coastline (Butler 1991). Juvenile herons
are more poorly suited to foraging on the mudflats and will utilize grassland habitat more than
adult birds (Butler 1991).
Known great blue heron nesting colonies mainly occur in the Strait of Georgia (COSEWIC
2008). The largest known colony on the west coast is located near the B.C. Ferries causeway in
Tsawwassen, which is home to several hundred nesting pairs (Delta Farmland and Wildlife
Trust 2014). The remaining members of this coastal subspecies nest in small colonies or as
solitary pairs and typically relocate their nesting sites every few years. Trees most commonly
used as nest substrate are red alder (Alnus rubra), black cottonwood, big-leaf maple
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(Acer macrophyllum), lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta), sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis), and
Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Nest sites are usually selected at locations relatively free
from human activities and disturbance, but are occasionally located in developed areas. Great
blue heron typically nests within approximately 10 km of foraging habitat, including eelgrass
(Zostera marina) meadows, river edges, or estuarine or freshwater marshes (Butler 1995). The
distribution of heron colony sites in B.C. is best explained by the distribution of summer foraging
habitat including shallow beaches with kelp beds, eelgrass beds, and marshes (Butler 1991).
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3.0 Methods
3.1 Study Area
The study area included roadside areas from Bridgeport Road in Richmond, to Beach Road in
Surrey (near the Canada‒U.S. border), within 1000 m from either side of the Highway 99
centreline.
3.2 Temporal Scope
The conspicuous raptor and heron study is intended to document observed presence in the
study area during the surveys. Because the regional abundance and spatial distribution of these
birds are expected to show considerable variation among different times of year, surveys were
conducted in spring, summer, autumn, and winter of 2014. Each survey was scheduled to start
within one hour after sunrise, or three hours before sunset (to be completed before sunset).
Table 5 lists the various survey dates, times, and locations.
Raptor and heron nest searches were conducted in March (prior to tree leaf emergence), to
improve likelihood of detection. Nests identified in March were revisited in June to identify
nesting activity.
Table 5 Roadside Survey Schedule
Season Date (2014) Sunrise Sunset Start Time of First Transect
Survey Start Point
Spring
March 20 7:15 AM 7:26 PM 8:15 AM Bridgeport Road
March 24 7:07 AM 7:32 PM 4:30 PM Beach Road
March 25 7:04 AM 7:33 PM 4:30 PM Bridgeport Road
March 27 7:00 AM 7:36 PM 8:00 AM Beach Road
Summer
June 10 5:07 AM 9:17 PM 6:20 PM Bridgeport Road
June 12 5:07 AM 9:18 PM 6:10 AM Beach Road
June 17 5:06 AM 9:21 PM 6:05 AM Bridgeport Road
June 19 5:06 AM 9:21 PM 6:20 PM Beach Road
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Season Date (2014) Sunrise Sunset Start Time of First Transect
Survey Start Point
Autumn
September 23 7:01 AM 7:08 PM 8:00 AM Bridgeport Road
September 25 7:04 AM 7:04 PM 4:05 PM Beach Road
September 30 7:11 AM 6:53 PM 3:55 PM Bridgeport Road
October 2 7:14 AM 6:51 PM 8:15 AM Beach Road
Winter
December 2 7:48 AM 4:16 PM 9:00 AM Bridgeport Road
December 4 7:50 AM 4:15 PM 1:15 PM Beach Road
December 9 7:56 AM 4:14 PM 1:15 PM Bridgeport Road
December 11 7:58 AM 4:14 PM 9:00 AM Beach Road
3.3 Roadside Survey Methods
The roadside survey study methods were adapted from the Inventory Methods for Raptors
(RIC 2001). Surveys were conducted quarterly along existing roads (Table 5). For each survey,
a three-person field crew (driver, primary observer, and data recorder/secondary observer)
completed two driving transects along Highway 99, one in each direction beginning at either
Bridgeport Road or Beach Road. The start point for the first driving transect alternated between
Bridgeport Road and Beach Road (Table 5). Splitting the survey into two transects allowed the
surveyors to view the roadside areas on each side of the highway from the curb lane. The
surveyors noted the location of each bird observed, the species, age and sex (if possible),
behaviour (perching, standing, or flying), and the perpendicular distance to the bird from the
road edge (in metres).
3.4 Nest Search Methods
To determine the presence of raptor and heron nests in the vicinity of the study area, a
reconnaissance field survey was undertaken prior to vegetation green-up during spring, when
the leaves are absent from the trees and stick-nests are most easily detected. Open agricultural
areas were scanned from a vehicle. Treed areas in the vicinity of the Tunnel and on Deas Island
were surveyed on foot. Information was collected about each nest detected including location,
condition, activity level, substrate and species. Nests identified in spring were revisited in
summer (June, 2014) to check for the presence of birds at the nests or signs of nesting activity.
Nests where no birds or signs of nesting activity were observed in either spring or summer have
been reported as unknown activity status. Stand-watches to definitively determine activity status
were not conducted.
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4.0 Results
4.1 Presence and Abundance
During roadside surveys completed for the study, a total of 1,241 raptors and 70 herons were
detected. Seven different taxa of raptors were recorded during the surveys, including
27 individuals that could not be classified to species (i.e., reported as unidentified Buteo,
unidentified falcon, or unidentified raptor) (see Table 6). The most frequently observed raptor
was bald eagle, accounting for 78% of all bird detections. Red-tailed hawk was the next most
frequently observed species, accounting for 13% of all bird observations. The remaining raptor
species or species groups each accounted for ≤ 1% of all bird detections. A total of 70 great
blue herons were detected, comprising 5% of all birds observed (Table 6).
Table 6 Observed Raptor and Heron Abundance during Roadside Surveys
Common Name Scientific Name Count Mean SD Max Min %
Raptors
American kestrel Falco sparverius 2 0 0 1 0 <1
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
1029 64 67 230 0 78
Cooper's hawk Accipiter cooperii 3 0 0 1 0 <1
Northern harrier C. cyaneus 7 0 1 3 0 <1
Peregrine falcon F. peregrinus 2 0 0 1 0 <1
Red-tailed hawk Buteo jamaicensis
169 11 6 25 2 13
Rough-legged hawk
B. lagopus 2 0 0 1 0 <1
Unidentified buteo
- 7 0 1 2 0 <1
Unidentified falcon
- 1 0 0 1 0 <1
Unidentified raptor
- 19 1 1 5 0 1
Herons
Great blue heron Ardea herodias fannini
70 4 4 16 1 5
Notes: Cumulative count (count), mean count (mean), standard deviation (SD), maximum count (max), minimum count (min), and proportion of all raptor observations (%) are based on total counts from 16 roadside surveys.
% represents percentages of total birds (raptors and herons) observed.
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Overall, the highest numbers of raptors and herons were recorded in spring, with
fewer detections in winter and summer, and fewer still in autumn, as summarized below and in
Table 7:
Bald eagles were detected on average 166 times per survey in spring (SD= 46),
47 times per survey in summer (SD = 13), and 44 times per survey in winter (SD = 9).
Only one individual was detected during the autumn survey session.
Red-tailed hawk, the second most numerous raptor species observed, was detected on
all survey dates, ranging from two to 25 detections per survey. The highest number of
red-tailed hawk detections was recorded during the winter.
Northern harrier was not observed during the summer surveys, but was seen once in
spring, twice in autumn, and four times in winter.
Cooper’s hawk was observed once in autumn and twice in winter.
Peregrine falcon was detected once in spring and once in summer but was not observed
in autumn or winter.
American kestrel was detected only in spring (two detections), and rough-legged hawk
was seen only in winter (two detections).
In addition, one barn owl carcass was found during the winter surveys (December 9,
2014) on the north shoulder of Highway 99, on the rail overpass near Mud Bay Park.
Great blue heron numbers appeared relatively consistent across spring, summer, and
autumn, with a total of 11, 12, and nine detections respectively. A total of 38 great blue
herons were detected in winter, more than all other seasons combined.
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Table 7 Seasonal Abundance of Conspicuous Raptors and Herons during Roadside Surveys
Common Name
Scientific Name
Spring Summer Autumn Winter
Count Mean ± SD
Count Mean ± SD
Count Mean ± SD
Count Mean ± SD
American kestrel
Falco sparverius
2 1 ±1 - - - - - -
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus
664 166 ±46
188 47 ±13
1 < 1 ±1
176 44 ±9
Cooper's hawk
Accipiter cooperii
- - - - 1 <1 ±1 2 1 ±1
Northern harrier
Circus cyaneus
1 <1 ±1
- - 2 1 ±1 4 1 ±2
Peregrine falcon
F. peregrinus 1 <1 ±1
1 <1 ±1 - - - -
Red-tailed hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
38 10 ±2
38 10 ±1 26 7 ±5 67 17 ±8
Rough-legged hawk
B. lagopus - - - - - - 2 1 ±1
Unidentified Buteo
- 1 <1 ±1
- - 3 1 ±1 3 1 ±1
Unidentified falcon
- - - 1 <1 ±1 - - - -
Unidentified raptor
- 7 2 ±1 3 1 ±1 4 1 ± 1 5 1 ±3
Great blue heron
Ardea herodias fannini
11 3 ±1 12 3 ±2 9 2 ±1 38 10 ±5
Total count by season 725 243 46 297
Notes: Count = total detections per season. Mean = mean count by season (four surveys per season) plus or minus the standard deviation (SD). “-“ = no individuals recorded.
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4.2 Distribution
4.2.1 Raptors
In spring, raptors were detected throughout most of the study area, with the exception of two
highly developed residential areas in south Surrey (Appendix A, Figure 1). The majority of the
raptors detected in spring were seen near the Vancouver Landfill. Several detections were also
concentrated near Deas Slough.
During the summer survey session, most raptors were again seen near the Vancouver Landfill
(Appendix A, Figure 2). Moderate detection densities were also recorded in the vicinity of the
Serpentine River. Very few raptors were seen between 32nd Avenue and Beach Road in South
Surrey. No raptors were detected between Bridgeport Road and Highway 91 in Richmond.
The raptor observations recorded in autumn were generally distributed throughout the study
area (Appendix A, Figure 3). Several detections were clustered to the north of the Tunnel and
also near the Serpentine River. Few raptors were detected in Richmond or in South Surrey, and
no raptors were detected between the Deas Island Bridge and Highway 17 in Delta.
Winter raptor distribution was similar to spring; raptors were detected throughout most of
the study area, with most detections concentrated near the Vancouver Landfill (Figure 4). The
lowest number of raptor detections was recorded in the more densely developed areas of
Richmond and South Surrey.
4.2.2 Great Blue Heron
Herons were most frequently observed between 96th Street and the Highway 99/Highway 91
interchange in Delta, and between Mud Bay Park and the Nicomekl River. Very few herons
were observed in areas where the study area is bordered by residential or industrial
development (Appendix A, Figure 5). Four herons were seen between Steveston Highway and
Bridgeport Road in Richmond (the northern end of the survey area), one in summer and three in
winter. Three herons were observed south of 32nd Avenue in South Surrey, two in summer and
one in winter.
4.3 Nests
Fourteen raptor nests were identified in the study area, including eight nests that were
confirmed to be active during the 2014 breeding season (Table 8; Appendix A, Figure 6).
Activity at the six remaining nests was not determined; however, no birds or signs of nesting
activity were documented at these nest sites during the spring or summer surveys.
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Table 8 Raptor Nests
Nest ID Species Structure General Area Activity Status
01 Unidentified raptor
Black cottonwood
North side of the Tunnel Unknown
02 Red-tailed hawk
Black cottonwood
Forest patch adjacent to the southbound off-ramp to River Road
Active
03 Bald eagle Black cottonwood
Deas Island Active
04 Bald eagle Black cottonwood
Deas Island Active
05 Unidentified raptor
Black cottonwood
South of Westminster Highway Unknown
06 Bald eagle Transmission tower
Near Serpentine River Active
07 Unidentified raptor
Deciduous tree Golf course northeast of Highway 99/Highway 91 interchange
Unknown
08 Bald eagle Black cottonwood
At Highway 91 on-ramp to northbound Highway 99
Active
09 Bald eagle Deciduous tree South of Vancouver Landfill, near 88th Street
Active
10 Unidentified raptor
Deciduous tree South of Vancouver Landfill, near 88th Street
Unknown
11 Unidentified raptor
Black cottonwood
Adjacent to Highway 17 (SFPR) on-ramp to Highway 99 southbound
Unknown
12 Bald eagle Deciduous tree Near Highway 17 (SFPR) on-ramp to Highway 99 southbound
Active
13 Unidentified raptor
Black cottonwood
Near Highway 17 (SFPR) and Ladner Trunk Road
Unknown
14 Red-tailed hawk
Black poplar Golf course north of Steveston Highway
Active
Note: Activity status is based on the presence of birds or signs of nesting at the nests during the summer survey session (June 2014).
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During the literature and data review, a search of the B.C. CDC species and ecosystems
database for sensitive (confidential) masked occurrence records was conducted. This search
yielded one record of a heron rookery (communal nest area) in the vicinity of the study area. A
visit to the rookery was conducted during the nesting period (April 2014) to identify potential
nesting activity. No nesting activity was observed at the reported location. During the visit, a
landowner from an adjacent property informed the surveyors that no activity had been observed
at the rookery site for approximately six or seven years. No heron nests were detected during
the course of the nest searches or roadside surveys.
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5.0 Discussion
Major results and data gaps associated with the conspicuous raptors and herons study are
discussed below.
5.1 Key Findings
The majority of target taxa observed in the study area were either bald eagle or red-tailed hawk,
which together comprised 91% of all raptors and herons observed (n = 1,311). The abundance
of these two species is consistent with the findings of other studies conducted in the Fraser
River delta.
In contrast, very few rough-legged hawks (n = 2), and few northern harriers (n = 7) were
detected during the course of the study. Rough-legged hawks do not breed in the Fraser River
delta but return to the area to overwinter. As expected, this species was only seen during the
winter survey period; however, lower numbers were observed than were expected. The reason
for the low number of detections of rough-legged hawk is unknown but may relate to relatively
mild weather conditions. The relatively low numbers of northern harrier observed during the
study may be related to its preference for marsh habitat, since areas of adjacent marsh habitat
are limited along the Highway 99 corridor.
The high numbers of raptors detected in spring compared to other seasons appears to be a
result of high numbers of bald eagles observed congregating at the Vancouver Landfill in that
season. High numbers of bald eagles were also observed at that location in winter, and in
moderate numbers in summer. No bald eagles were detected at the landfill in autumn. It is likely
that the autumn salmon spawning season presents eagles with better foraging opportunities
elsewhere.
Overall, across all four seasons, raptors were observed most frequently in the following broadly
classified areas (see Appendix A, Figures 1, 2 and 4):
The area near the Vancouver Landfill
Agricultural areas between 88th Street and the Highway 99/Highway 91 Interchange.
The area near the Serpentine and Nicomekl rivers
Deas Slough and Deas Island
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Great blue herons were most frequently observed in the agricultural areas between 96th Street
and the Highway 99/Highway 91 interchange, and the area between Mud Bay Park and the
Nicomekl River. Very few great blue herons were detected in areas where the study area is
bordered by residential or industrial development. Numbers of great blue heron foraging in the
upland habitats of the study area were higher in winter since the winter tide cycle and
characteristics likely limit foraging opportunities in Boundary Bay.
Three active raptor nests (two bald eagle nests and one red-tailed hawk nest) and one nest of
unknown activity were identified near the Tunnel location. As noted in Section 1.2, bald eagle
nests are afforded protection year-round under the provincial Wildlife Act and must not be
disturbed or destroyed. Red-tailed hawk nests are protected when occupied by a bird or its egg.
On the B.C. south coast, red-tailed hawk eggs or young may be present from approximately
February 26 to August 10 (Province of British Columbia 2013).
5.2 Data Gaps and Limitations
Year-to-year fluctuations in raptor numbers mean that it is likely that certain species were not
observed during the 2014 surveys. Some limitations apply to data collected using roadside
survey methods. The surveyors could only survey areas that were visible from the vehicle as it
travelled along Highway 99. Because visibility into adjacent habitats was greater in some areas
than in others, abundance estimates may inaccurately reflect actual abundance in some areas.
Additionally, surveyors were not able to identify all birds observed to species. Nevertheless, the
information collected during this study is considered to meet the study objectives (i.e.,
documenting conspicuous raptors and great blue heron presence and relative abundance, and
locating raptor and heron nests within the study area).
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6.0 Closure
Major authors and reviewers of this technical data report are listed below.
Report prepared by: Hemmera Envirochem Inc. Samantha Gidora, B.Sc., BIT Biologist Report peer reviewed by: Hemmera Envirochem Inc.
Paul McElligott, Ph.D., R.P.Bio. Jared Hobbs, M.Sc., R.P.Bio. Senior Ecologist Senior Biologist This document represents an electronic version of the original hard copy document, sealed, signed and dated by Jared Hobbs, M.Sc., R.P.Bio. and retained on file. The content of the electronically transmitted document can be confirmed by referring to the original hard copy and file. This document is provided in electronic format for convenience only. Hemmera Envirochem Inc. shall not be liable in any way for errors or omissions in any electronic version of its report document.
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7.0 Statement of Limitations
This report has been prepared for the sole benefit of the B.C. Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure to describe existing conditions of conspicuous raptor and great blue heron within a
specific study area. This report is based on field studies and desktop studies, and the data
presented herein represent conspicuous raptor and great blue heron conditions at the time field
observation and desktop studies were undertaken.
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8.0 References
BirdLife Canada. 2013. Important Bird Areas (IBA) Canada. Available at
http://www.ibacanada.ca/site.jsp?siteID=bc017&lang=EN. Accessed August 2014.
British Columbia Conservation Data Centre (B.C. CDC). 2014. B.C. Species and Ecosystems
Explorer. Available at http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eswp/. Accessed August 2014.
British Columbia Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks (B.C. MELP). 2000. Serpentine
Wildlife Management Area, Management Plan. Produced by B.C. MELP, Fish Wildlife
and Habitat Protection, Lower Mainland Region. Available at
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/planning/mgmtplns/serpentine/serpentine.pdf.
Accessed August 2014.
British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Air Protection (B.C. MWLAP). 2004. Identified
Wildlife Management Strategy 2004. British Columbia Ministry of Environment, Victoria
B.C. Available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/frpa/iwms/iwms.html. Accessed August
2014.
Butler, R. W., and R. W. Campbell. 1987. The birds of the Fraser River delta: populations,
ecology and international significance. Occasional Paper No. 65, Canadian Wildlife
Service, Ottawa, ON.
Butler, R. W. 1991. Habitat selection and time of breeding in the great blue heron Ardea
herodias. Ph.D. Dissertation, University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology,
Vancouver, B.C.
Butler, R. W. 1992a. Great Blue Heron. in A. Poole, P. Stettenheim, and F. Gill, (editors).The
birds of North America No. 25. Academy of Natural Sciences and American
Ornithologists' Union.
Butler, R. W. 1992b. Abundance, distribution and conservation of birds in the vicinity of
Boundary Bay, British Columbia. Technical Report Series No. 155, Canadian Wildlife
Service, Environment Canada, Pacific and Yukon Region, Nanaimo, B.C. Available at
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/techpub/wr52.pdf. Accessed August 2014.
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Butler, R. W. 1995. The patient predator: foraging and population ecology of the great blue
heron Ardea herodias in British Columbia. Occasional Paper No. 86, Canadian Wildlife
Service, Ottawa, ON.
Butler, R. W. 1997. The coastal retainer: natural history and ecology of the Great Blue Heron on
the coast of British Columbia. UBC Press, Vancouver, B.C.
Campbell, W., N. Dawe, I. McTaggart-Cowan, J. Cooper, G. Kaiser, and M. McNall. 1999. The
Birds of B.C. Volume II Nonpasserines: Diurnal Birds of Prey through Woodpeckers.
Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). 2008. Assessment
and status seport on the Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias fannini fannini subspecies in
Canada. Ottawa, Canada. Available at www.sararegistry.gc.ca/status/status_e.cfm.
Accessed August 2014.
Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust (DFWT). 2014. Great Blue Heron. Available at
http://deltafarmland.ca/content/great-blue-heron. Accessed January 2014.
Fraser River Estuary Management Program (FREMP). 2003. A living working river - the Estuary
Management Plan for the Fraser River. Fraser River Estuary Management Program,
Burnaby, B.C. Available at
http://www.bieapfremp.org/fremp/pdf_files/Revised%20EMP%202003%20August%20.p
df. Accessed August 2013.
Gebauer, M. B., and I. E. Moul. 2001. Status of the Great Blue Heron in British Columbia.
Wildlife Working Report, B.C. Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks, Victoria, B.C.
Available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/statusrpts/wr102.pdf. Accessed
August 2014.
Government of B.C. 2004. Government Actions Regulation. B.C. 582/2004. OC 1246/2004.
Forest and Range Practices Act, SBC 2002, c. 69.
Kushlan, J. A. 1976. Feeding behaviours of North American herons. The Auk 93:86–94.
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Mol, A. L. 2002. Boundary Bay regional park bird checklist. Originally compiled in 1995 by Allen
Poynter - updated by Mol 2002. Available at
http://www3.telus.net/driftwood/boundbl.htm. Accessed August 2014.
Province of British Columbia. 2013. Guidelines for raptor conservation during urban and rural
land development in British Columbia. A companion document to Develop with Care
2012. Available at
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/documents/bmp/raptor_conservation_guidelines_2013.pdf.
Accessed August 2014.
Resource Inventory Committee (RIC). 2001. Inventory methods for raptors. Version 2.0.
Standards for components of British Columbia’s biodiversity No. 11, Ministry of
Sustainable Resource Management, Environmental Inventory Branch for the Terrestrial
Ecosystems Task Force, Resources Inventory Committee, Victoria, B.C. Available at
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/hts/risc/pubs/tebiodiv/raptors/version2/rapt_ml_v2.pdf.
Accessed August 2014.
Robertson Environmental Services Ltd. (RESL). 2006. Vegetation and wildlife impact
assessment, Technical Volume 12 of the Environmental Assessment application for
South Fraser Perimeter Road. Prepared for the B.C. Ministry of Transportation.
APPENDIX A
Figures
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±1:100,000
0 1 2 3 4 5Kilometres
GEORGE MASSEY TUNNEL REPLACEMENT PROJECT
CONSPICUOUS RAPTOR ABUNDANCEAND DISTRIBUTION (SPRING 2014)Figure 1a 15/04/2015
SOURCESParks and Protected Lands, First Nations Reserves from GeoBC, United States basemap data courtesy of USGS. Burns Bog courtesy of The Corporation of Delta and based on the Metro Vancouver Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Management Plan - May 2007, all other data courtesy of Canvec - GeoGratis.
11km Sample Intervals - Number of Bird Sightings1 - 33 - 99 - 2020 - 5151 - 485No RecordsFirst Nation ReserveBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaMunicipal BoundariesWaterbodyCanada - U.S. BorderHighwayArterial/Collector RoadGeorge
MasseyTunnel
Burns Bog
PEACE ARCH PARK
MUSQUEAMI.R. 4
Fraser R iver North Arm
River Road
River Road62
bStre
et
BoundaryBay
Deas IslandRegional Park
DeasSlo
ugh
Dyke Road
RichmondNature Park
Annacis Channel
Boundary BayAirport
Fraser River South Arm
UV1Bridgeport Road
No 5
Road
Blundell Road
Steveston Highway
Westminster Highway
SEMIAHMOO
UV17
Delta
Richmond
Surrey
TsawwassenFirst Nation
Vancouver
White Rock
BurnabyNew
Westminster
VancouverLandfill
UV91
UV99
UV17
UV17A
UV17
UV10 UV99
UV91
UV10
UV99
UV17
Area EnlargedRichmond
DeltaSurrey
Tsawwassen First Nation
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
VancouverBurnaby
Langley
Maple Ridge
CoquitlamPitt
Meadows
WhiteRock Canada
U.S.AWashington
Boundary Bay
0 5 10Kilometres
1 The sample interval length is 1km along the centreline of Highway 99. The buffer distance of each sample interval length is 1km perpendicular to the direction of the road.(The total width is 2km)
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0 1 2 3 4 5Kilometres
GEORGE MASSEY TUNNEL REPLACEMENT PROJECT
CONSPICUOUS RAPTOR ABUNDANCEAND DISTRIBUTION (SUMMER 2014)Figure 1b 15/04/2015
SOURCESParks and Protected Lands, First Nations Reserves from GeoBC, United States basemap data courtesy of USGS. Burns Bog courtesy of The Corporation of Delta and based on the Metro Vancouver Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Management Plan - May 2007, all other data courtesy of Canvec - GeoGratis.
11km Sample Intervals - Number of Bird Sightings1 - 33 - 99 - 2020 - 5151 - 485No RecordsFirst Nation ReserveBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaMunicipal BoundariesWaterbodyCanada - U.S. BorderHighwayArterial/Collector RoadGeorge
MasseyTunnel
Burns Bog
PEACE ARCH PARK
MUSQUEAMI.R. 4
Fraser R iver North Arm
River Road
River Road62
bStre
et
BoundaryBay
Deas IslandRegional Park
DeasSlo
ugh
Dyke Road
RichmondNature Park
Annacis Channel
Serpentine River
Nickomek l R
iver
Fraser River South Arm
UV1Bridgeport Road
No 5
Road
Blundell Road
Steveston Highway
Westminster Highway
SEMIAHMOO
UV17
Delta
Richmond
Surrey
TsawwassenFirst Nation
Vancouver
White Rock
BurnabyNew
Westminster
BoundaryBay Regional
Park
BoundaryBay
Airport
VancouverLandfill
UV91
UV99
UV17
UV17A
UV17
UV10 UV99
UV91
UV10
UV99
UV17
Area EnlargedRichmond
DeltaSurrey
Tsawwassen First Nation
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
VancouverBurnaby
Langley
Maple Ridge
CoquitlamPitt
Meadows
WhiteRock Canada
U.S.AWashington
Boundary Bay
0 5 10Kilometres
1 The sample interval length is 1km along the centreline of Highway 99. The buffer distance of each sample interval length is 1km perpendicular to the direction of the road.(The total width is 2km)
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0 1 2 3 4 5Kilometres
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Figure 1c 15/04/2015
SOURCESParks and Protected Lands, First Nations Reserves from GeoBC, United States basemap data courtesy of USGS. Burns Bog courtesy of The Corporation of Delta and based on the Metro Vancouver Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Management Plan - May 2007, all other data courtesy of Canvec - GeoGratis.
11km Sample Intervals - Number of Bird Sightings1 - 33 - 99 - 2020 - 5151 - 485No RecordsFirst Nation ReserveBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaMunicipal BoundariesWaterbodyCanada - U.S. BorderHighwayArterial/Collector RoadGeorge
MasseyTunnel
Burns Bog
PEACE ARCH PARK
MUSQUEAMI.R. 4
Fraser R iver North Arm
River Road
River Road62
bStre
et
BoundaryBay
Deas IslandRegional Park
DeasSlo
ugh
Dyke Road
RichmondNature Park
Annacis Channel
Serpentine River
Nickomek l R
iver
Fraser River South Arm
UV1Bridgeport Road
No 5
Road
Blundell Road
Steveston Highway
Westminster Highway
SEMIAHMOO
UV17
Delta
Richmond
Surrey
TsawwassenFirst Nation
Vancouver
White Rock
BurnabyNew
Westminster
BoundaryBay Regional
Park
BoundaryBay
Airport
VancouverLandfill
UV91
UV99
UV17
UV17A
UV17
UV10 UV99
UV91
UV10
UV99
UV17
Area EnlargedRichmond
DeltaSurrey
Tsawwassen First Nation
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
VancouverBurnaby
Langley
Maple Ridge
CoquitlamPitt
Meadows
WhiteRock Canada
U.S.AWashington
Boundary Bay
0 5 10Kilometres
1 The sample interval length is 1km along the centreline of Highway 99. The buffer distance of each sample interval length is 1km perpendicular to the direction of the road.(The total width is 2km)
Path:
O:\!2
17-29
9\285
\077\0
3\mxd
\Wild
life\R
aptor
s\TDR
\Fig1
d_28
5_07
7_03
_TDR
_Rap
tors-W
inter_
1606
16_F
INAL
.mxd
Legend
±1:100,000
0 1 2 3 4 5Kilometres
GEORGE MASSEY TUNNEL REPLACEMENT PROJECT
CONSPICUOUS RAPTOR ABUNDANCEAND DISTRIBUTION (WINTER 2014)Figure 1d 15/04/2015
SOURCESParks and Protected Lands, First Nations Reserves from GeoBC, United States basemap data courtesy of USGS. Burns Bog courtesy of The Corporation of Delta and based on the Metro Vancouver Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Management Plan - May 2007, all other data courtesy of Canvec - GeoGratis.
11km Sample Intervals - Number of Bird Sightings1 - 33 - 99 - 2020 - 5151 - 485No RecordsFirst Nation ReserveBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaMunicipal BoundariesWaterbodyCanada - U.S. BorderHighwayArterial/Collector RoadGeorge
MasseyTunnel
Burns Bog
PEACE ARCH PARK
MUSQUEAMI.R. 4
Fraser R iver North Arm
River Road
River Road62
bStre
et
BoundaryBay
Deas IslandRegional Park
DeasSlo
ugh
Dyke Road
RichmondNature Park
Annacis Channel
Serpentine River
Nickomek l R
iver
Fraser River South Arm
UV1Bridgeport Road
No 5
Road
Blundell Road
Steveston Highway
Westminster Highway
SEMIAHMOO
UV17
Delta
Richmond
Surrey
TsawwassenFirst Nation
Vancouver
White Rock
BurnabyNew
Westminster
BoundaryBay Regional
Park
BoundaryBay
Airport
UV91
UV99
UV17
UV17A
UV17
UV10 UV99
UV91
UV10
UV99
UV17
VancouverLandfill
Area EnlargedRichmond
DeltaSurrey
Tsawwassen First Nation
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
VancouverBurnaby
Langley
Maple Ridge
CoquitlamPitt
Meadows
WhiteRock Canada
U.S.AWashington
Boundary Bay
0 5 10Kilometres
1 The sample interval length is 1km along the centreline of Highway 99. The buffer distance of each sample interval length is 1km perpendicular to the direction of the road.(The total width is 2km)
Path:
O:\!2
17-29
9\285
\077\0
3\mxd
\Wild
life\R
aptor
s\TDR
\Fig2
_285
_077
_03_
TDR_
BlueH
eron_
1606
16_F
INAL
.mxd
Legend
±1:100,000
0 1 2 3 4 5Kilometres
GEORGE MASSEY TUNNEL REPLACEMENT PROJECT
GREAT BLUE HERON ABUNDANCEAND DISTRIBUTION
Figure 2 15/04/2015
SOURCESParks and Protected Lands, First Nations Reserves from GeoBC, United States basemap data courtesy of USGS. Burns Bog courtesy of The Corporation of Delta and based on the Metro Vancouver Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Management Plan - May 2007, all other data courtesy of Canvec - GeoGratis.
Great Blue Heron SightingSpring 2014 (11 total sightings)Summer 2014 (12 total sightings)Fall 2014 (9 total sightings)Winter 2014 (38 total sightings)First Nation ReserveBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaMunicipal BoundariesWaterbodyCanada - U.S. BorderHighwayArterial/Collector Road
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
Burns Bog
PEACE ARCH PARK
MUSQUEAMI.R. 4
Fraser R iver North Arm
River Road
River Road62
bStre
et
BoundaryBay
Deas IslandRegional Park
DeasSlo
ugh
Dyke Road
RichmondNature Park
Annacis Channel
Serpentine River
Nickomek l R
iver
Fraser River South Arm
UV1Bridgeport Road
No 5
Road
Blundell Road
Steveston Highway
Westminster Highway
SEMIAHMOO
UV17
Delta
Richmond
Surrey
TsawwassenFirst Nation
Vancouver
White Rock
BurnabyNew
Westminster
BoundaryBay Regional
Park
BoundaryBay
Airport
VancouverLandfill
UV91
UV99
UV17
UV17A
UV17
UV10 UV99
UV91
UV10
UV99
UV17
Area EnlargedRichmond
DeltaSurrey
Tsawwassen First Nation
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
VancouverBurnaby
Langley
Maple Ridge
CoquitlamPitt
Meadows
WhiteRock Canada
U.S.AWashington
Boundary Bay
0 5 10Kilometres
1 The sample interval length is 1km along the centreline of Highway 99. The buffer distance of each sample interval length is 1km perpendicular to the direction of the road.(The total width is 2km)
Path:
O:\!2
17-29
9\285
\077\0
3\mxd
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life\R
aptor
s\TDR
\Fig3
_285
_077
_03_
TDR_
Stick
Nests
_160
616_
FINAL
.mxd
Legend
±1:100,000
0 1 2 3 4 5Kilometres
GEORGE MASSEY TUNNEL REPLACEMENT PROJECT
CONSPICUOUS RAPTORNEST LOCATIONS
Figure 3 15/04/2015
SOURCESParks and Protected Lands, First Nations Reserves from GeoBC, United States basemap data courtesy of USGS. Burns Bog courtesy of The Corporation of Delta and based on the Metro Vancouver Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area Management Plan - May 2007, all other data courtesy of Canvec - GeoGratis.
Nest Species and ConditionB Bald Eagle, ActiveR Red-tailed Hawk, ActiveU Unidentified Raptor Nest, Unknown Activity
First Nation ReserveBurns Bog Ecological Conservancy AreaMunicipal BoundariesWaterbodyCanada - U.S. BorderHighwayArterial/Collector Road
U
BBU
U
R
BB
U
BUBU
R
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
Burns Bog
PEACE ARCH PARK
MUSQUEAMI.R. 4
Fraser R iver North Arm
River Road
River Road62
bStre
et
BoundaryBay
Deas IslandRegional Park
DeasSlo
ugh
Dyke Road
RichmondNature Park
Annacis Channel
Serpentine River
Nickomek l R
iver
Fraser River South Arm
UV1Bridgeport Road
No 5
Road
Blundell Road
Steveston Highway
Westminster Highway
SEMIAHMOO
UV17
Delta
Richmond
Surrey
TsawwassenFirst Nation
Vancouver
White Rock
BurnabyNew
Westminster
Nest 007
Nest 008Nest 009Nest 010
Nest001
Nest002
Nest003Nest004
Nest005
Nest006Nest011 Nest012Nest013
Nest014
BoundaryBay Regional
Park
BoundaryBay
Airport
UV91
UV99
UV17
UV17A
UV17
UV10 UV99
UV91
UV10
UV99
UV17
VancouverLandfill
Area EnlargedRichmond
DeltaSurrey
Tsawwassen First Nation
GeorgeMasseyTunnel
VancouverBurnaby
Langley
Maple Ridge
CoquitlamPitt
Meadows
WhiteRock Canada
U.S.AWashington
Boundary Bay
0 5 10Kilometres
1 The sample interval length is 1km along the centreline of Highway 99. The buffer distance of each sample interval length is 1km perpendicular to the direction of the road.(The total width is 2km)