Bird populations are down across Canada

By Tyson Leonard

Bird populations are on the decline across Canada and the Quinte area is no exception.

“I’ve been seeing (bird populations decline) over the years myself since the 60’s, some species have declined dramatically,” said Terry Sprague, a member of the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory.

The North American Bird Conservation Initiative of Canada recently issued a report describing the drop in bird populations since 1970. Overall there has been a 12 per cent drop in bird populations. Some bird species have suffered more than others.

The bird types most affected have been shore birds, grassland birds, and aerial insectivores.

Sprague said it’s definitely human cause.

The Prince Edward Point area, southeast of Picton, was designated as a globally important birding area in 1998. About 300 unique bird species have been recorded there and at least 75 of the species permanently nest at the point. The website for Presqu’ile Park, south of Brighton, describes itself as a mecca for birdwatchers.

“We are more generally recognized as birding destinations because of the enormous numbers, we’re talking millions of birds that descend on, for instance Prince Edward County south shore every spring,” said Sprague.

Sprague said the affects of the decrease will be far ranging.

“When you have fewer insect-eating birds then you have more insects and then you have more insects that are affecting agriculture crops. This means farmers will have to rely more on sprays that can affect human health,” said Sprague.

He said birding tourism in the area wouldn’t be affected immediately but eventually it’s possible.

Dr. Charles Francis, chair of the group that issued the report, agrees declining bird populations are bad for more than just birds.

“It’s a potential reflection of the quality of the environment as a whole,” said Francis.

Francis said some of the causes of the decrease include climate change, domestic cats and most importantly habitat loss.

“Probably the most important factor for at least some of these groups is habitat loss, whether that habitat loss is in Canada or elsewhere, or a combination of the two,” said Francis.

Francis also said human impact played a major role.

“Whether it’s from climate change, or pesticide use, or habitat change, ultimately humans are the biggest factor influencing the current state of the environment throughout the world,” said Francis.

Francis said the key to keeping bird populations stable is co-operation.

“We need to work together, because all aspects of society influence the quality and state of the environment,” said Francis.

Without any positive interference, it’s likely things will get worse said Francis.

“Some of these populations may continue to decline, and eventually disappear,” said Francis.