Survey of Maine and Atlantic Canada completed

Written by John Bidwell
Thursday, June 04, 2009

The Atlantic crew area waterfowl breeding population survey for 2009 started May 3 in Stratum 62 (Maine) and was completed on June 4 in Stratum 67 (Labrador). Habitat conditions for breeding waterfowl were classified excellent in Maine, the Maritimes and Newfoundland, but good in Labrador. Southern strata experienced normal ice breakup and the flooding that plagued 2008 was noticeably absent in 2009. In Newfoundland, the lack of snowfall in the central highlands coupled with moderate temperatures created early nesting conditions for black ducks and Canada geese. Labrador, however, had a late spring because of below normal temperatures and above normal snowfall. In general, waterfowl numbers for most species were above the 2008 estimates and good waterfowl production should be expected.

Waterfall at the western side of the Mealy Mountains in Labrador. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Churchhill River near Goose Bay, Labrador, with the Mealy Mountains in the background. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Late spring in Labrador.

Coastal Labrador south of Mary's Harbor - pack ice in the background. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Flock of surf and white wing scoters on Grand Lake near North West River, Labrador. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Mealy Mountains, east of Goose Bay, Labrador. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Central Labrador boreal forest. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Western Labrador near Wabush had abundant habitat available for nesting waterfowl. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)

Interior Labrador lakes and wetlands were open. (Credit: D. Forsell, USFWS)