The Migration Monitoring Program is a long-term study conducted every spring and fall to track bird populations over time. It follows standardized methods in line with the Canadian Migration Monitoring Network to ensure consistency and reliability.

Each morning consists of 6 hours of general bird observations during which 5 hours of banding are done as well as a one-hour census walk. The data collected from these activities are combined to calculate a standardized Daily Estimated Total (DET) for each species.

Program Objectives

The Migration Monitoring Program at McGill Bird Observatory collects data on neotropical migrants and other landbirds to support continent-wide efforts in tracking population changes.

  • Trend analysis of bird population
  • Molt migration patterns
  • Delay in migration arrival and departures
  • Proportion of juvenile migrants
  • Establishment of migration routes and patterns
  • Research project partnerships
  • Morphometric data

Spring

Duration : 10 weeks
(March 28 – June 6)

Every spring, the Migration Monitoring Program (SMMP) tracks the incredible journey of migrating birds.

Each day, researchers and volunteers conduct a structured census, carefully band birds, and record observations to monitor population trends and migration patterns.

Fall

Duration : 14 weeks
(August 1 – November 6)

As summer fades, the Fall Migration Monitoring Program (FMMP) follows the journey of birds heading south.

Each day, researchers and volunteers conduct a structured census, carefully band birds, and record observations to track migration patterns and population trends.

Protocol

The Migration Monitoring Program aims to collect high-quality data on neotropical migrants and other landbird species using standardized, scientifically rigorous methods. This data contributes to continent-wide efforts to monitor population trends and assess long-term changes.

The written field protocol at MBO ensures consistency in methodology, allowing staff to maintain standardized procedures across seasons and years, regardless of personnel changes.

Reports

Results

Our data are used in various short and longterm studies and trend analysis. Our principal partner for the trend analysis is Birds Canada who’s in charge of combine banding station standardize data in Canada and made available to researchers through the NatureCounts website.

Banding total in 2024 : 5683 birds of 67 species

Program
Supporters

How you can help

Our research is made possible through the generous support of donors, volunteers, and partners. Your donations help keep the observatory running, allowing us to conduct vital studies on bird migration, stopover behaviors, and habitat conservation. Contributions directly fund research equipment, banding efforts, and outreach initiatives.

You can also support our work by volunteering, participating in community science projects, or simply spreading awareness about the importance of bird conservation. Every effort makes a difference in protecting migratory species and their habitats