Quick Key Points

• Migratory bird season (breeding/nesting) occurs between April 15-August 15.
• Residents need to take extra precaution as nests can be found in trees, grass, shrubs or vegetation. These areas should not be disturbed until it is confirmed there are no nests present.
• Migratory birds are protected through federal legislation. If you see a nest, leave it be.

What Are Migratory Birds?

Migratory birds include various species like Robins, Canada geese, Woodpeckers, all songbirds, all waterfowl, hawks, falcons, owls and other raptors who are returning to nearby areas in mid-April for breeding. All of these species are present and protected in St. Albert. Nests can be found in trees, grass, or shrubs, and vegetation should not be disturbed until it is confirmed there are no nests present.

Migratory birds contribute to biodiversity, play an important role in ecosystems, and are indicators of the health of the environment. Conserving migratory bird populations, which includes protecting individuals and their nests, is an important element of halting and reversing biodiversity loss in Canada.

Migratory birds enrich our lives and ecosystems in countless ways, so it is crucial to recognize the vital role these feathered travelers play in our environment.

Migratory Bird Season

Migratory bird season starts April 15 and continues until August 15 as per the federal Migratory Bird Convention Act (MBCA). During this time, the City urges residents to check their trees for bird nests when planning any tree removals or trimming.

Migratory Birds and You

• If a nest is found during migratory bird season, it is critical to hold off on removing or trimming the tree until after the season has ended.
• Many species will extend their nesting past the August 15 timeline in the case of a second nest attempt, It is important to keep a lookout for active nests when planning tree work in late summer.
• Nesting birds must be handled with caution. Some birds, upon having their nests disrupted, may abandon their eggs entirely. Others may suffer direct mortality through tree trimming or removal.
• Migratory birds are protected through federal legislation, and disregarding these regulations can lead to financial penalties, or even jail time.

City Work and Bird Sweeps

When City-led construction work or tree removal is taking place, professional biologists are hired to complete bird sweeps before construction begins, or before any tree removal. The bird sweeps are valid for five days which means a large-scale project may require multiple bird sweeps throughout the work, depending on construction phasing.

City of St. Albert arborists are trained to look for nesting birds when they are doing tree work and the Environment branch works closely with other departments which may come into contact with migratory birds during their work.

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Related Pages

City Wildlife ›

Wildlife Monitoring ›

Waterfowl Rescue & Reunification ›