BIRDS
Daniel F. Brunton
MAJOR GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE
Few comprehensive sources of more than distributional information is available for the ecozone. Provincial studies such as Peck & James (1983 and 1987), Cadman et al. (1987), Cyr et Larivée (1995) and Gauthier et Aubry (1995), however, provide at least basic information on the breeding ecology of many species in Ontario and Quebec. Some the most pressing information gaps remaining for the ecozone are noted below:
- pre-development baseline data
- most population and ecological data were gathered in the last 50 years, much of
it obtained elsewhere in the range of these species. It is difficult for researchers
and managers to determine trends and requirements when basic ecological information
is only available from the period after substantial alteration of the ecozone's landscape
had commenced.
- habitat fragmentation effect
- the impact of fragmentation of woodland habitats on bird populations has been examined
for only a few species (e.g. Wood Thursh) but is considered to be one of the major
threats to passerine populations in the ecozone (cf. Austen et al.,
1994).
- non-native plant and animal competition
- the impact on native habitats and their bird populations of invasive and aggressive
animal and plant 'weeds' such as Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria),
Wild Garlic (Alliaria petiolata), Canada general terms.
- wintering ecology
- ecological requirements of winter resident species in the ecozone, particularly
northern raptors, is poorly known.
- Endangered/Vulnerable Species
- the ecological and protection requirements of most rare breeding birds is known
in only general terms although some designated Endangered species, such as Loggerhead
Shrike, are receiving attention through National Recovery Plans (e.g. Johns et al.
1993).