Assessing the impact of pipeline construction activity on nest attendance behaviour of migratory birds.

The study’s primary goal is to understand the impact of pipeline construction on the behaviour of migratory birds. It will focus on assessing how the proximity to different construction activities, different habitats, environmental conditions and nature of construction work affect nest attendance, alertness and flushing behaviour of the migrants. Anthropogenic activities can adversely affect the migratory birds, especially during the nesting phase of their lives. While different measure like buffers and setbacks are often employed to mitigate the disturbance, there remains a gap in understanding their effectiveness. By this study, the data collected during the pipeline construction will be analyzed to answer important questions on the ecology of the migratory birds. With the help of this research project, Trans Mountain Corporation aims to provide not only useful insights and knowledge on how birds react to the different types of anthropogenic disturbances during pipeline construction but also to aid in management planning for the conservation of the bird species.

Faculty Supervisor:

Erin Bayne

Student:

Partner:

Trans Mountain Corporation

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Transportation and warehousing

University:

University of Alberta

Program: