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Courtenay River Estuary Management Plan
Richmond Olympic Speed Skating Oval
Pitt River Wetlands
Middle Arm Experiential Walk
Port Mann Highway No.1 Project
Canada Line Richmond, Vancouver International Airport
City Lumber Wetlands, Burnaby, British Columbia
Fraser River Pile & Dredge Ltd.'s No.5 Road Facility Upgrade - Fraser River
City Lumber Wetlands, Burnaby, British Columbia
Port Mann Highway No.1 Project
Pitt River Wetlands

Bird Nest Surveys

Bird nests can be located in banks, cliffs, on the ground, in grasses, shrubs and trees, within tree cavities and on structures such as buildings or bridges. Disturbance that causes harm to an individual bird or causes a nest to fail is considered an offence under the Provincial Wildlife Act and/or the Federal Migratory Birds Convention Act 1994 and Migratory Birds Regulations 2022. Prior to any activity that potentially risks injuring, molesting, or destroying a bird or a nest, a bird nest survey must be completed by a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP).

Envirowest staff include QEPs with extensive knowledge in bird biology and behaviour. Envirowest QEPs are experienced in conducting nest surveys and nest management plans for active nests.

The following table provides guidelines for when surveys are typically required.

When
If you plan to remove/disturb…
Typical requirement
Mar 1 – Aug 31
(general “active nesting” season)		 Vegetation
(trees/shrubs/grass), ground cover, buildings/structures		 Active Bird Nest Survey (all birds). Must be completed no more than 48 hours before the activity; results are usually valid 3–7 days.
Sep 1 – Feb 28
(general “least-risk” window)		 Vegetation or structures Targeted survey for year-round protected nests (e.g., eagles, osprey, herons, and others) where suitable habitat exists.
Any time of year Work near suspected/known year-round protected nest habitat; or you observe a nest Targeted year-round protected nest survey and/or nest management plan as directed by QEP.