Student Program
Since receiving initial seed funding in 2016, the MBO research program has continued to grow, expanding its contributions to avian science. Led by Dr. Barbara Frei in collaboration with Dr. Kyle Elliott from McGill University, MBO has conducted groundbreaking research on migration timing, the discovery of new hybrid warblers, spatial patterns in migration connectivity, blood metabolites as indicators of bird health, feathers for assays of stable isotopes and molt migration in neotropical species.
Since then, the MBO research team has supported ten undergraduate and graduate student theses, further contributing to the advancement of avian science.

Research area
McGill Bird Observatory collaborates with academic and government researchers, as well as university students, across various fields.
Our involvement ranges from sharing banding and observation data to assisting in the sampling process or actively contributing to the development, analysis, and publication of primary research.
Below is a list of peer-reviewed publications authored by our team and students, as well as collaborative studies that have utilized our banding data.
Number of projects per field
Publications
Posters


About EDF
Restoration, research and education to protect migrating birds in l’Ouest-de-l’Ile
Starting in 2022, McGill University was awarded $390,000 from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) to undertake a three-year project in partnership with the McGill Bird Observatory and with the support of Bird Protection Quebec.
Objectives
1Restore native habitat for songbirds in the west island by removing invasive species and planting over 1000 native trees and shrubs.
2Research the habitat use and mortality of migratory songbirds in the west island across space and time.
3Engage with the local Montreal community, especially youth, to raise awareness about the importance of urban greenspaces for migratory songbirds.
- Restore : The funds helped coordinate the removal of nearly 500 kg of invasive garlic mustard from Macdonald Campus and the McGill Bird Observatory. This aggressive plant outcompetes native vegetation, disrupting habitats that birds and other wildlife rely on.
- Research : The funds were used to purchase three new automated telemetry stations (Motus) and radio telemetry nanotags to study the stopover behavior and habitat preferences of two migratory songbird species that rely on the West Island as a key stopover site during their molting period and fall migration.
- Educate : A series of informative and visually engaging videos were created for MBO’s YouTube channel, helping children and their parents learn about migratory bird ecology, conservation, and the importance of native plants and greenspaces.

About the grant
The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. The purpose of any contribution to the EDF is to restore the environment and conserve wildlife and habitats in a scientifically sound, cost-effective, and technically feasible way.
MOTUS
The Motus Wildlife Tracking System is an innovative, collaborative research network that uses automated radio telemetry to study the movements of small flying animals, including birds, bats, and insects, over vast distances. Tiny radio transmitters, called nanotags, are attached to the animals, emitting signals detected by a global network of receiving stations. These strategically placed stations track migration routes, stopover sites, and behaviors, providing researchers with valuable data. Motus is a powerful tool for understanding migration patterns, guiding conservation efforts, and promoting international collaboration in wildlife research.
Highlights
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TEWA: 400
SWTH:
NOCA:
Total tag in 2024 : 100
Total tag in 2024 : 100
KEPO Kahnawà:ke Environment Protection Office
KEPO is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural environment of the Kahnawà:ke territory. Through community engagement, education, and proactive environmental management, KEPO works to safeguard the land, water, and wildlife for future generations. Their initiatives include monitoring environmental health, promoting sustainable practices, and addressing environmental concerns within the community. KEPO plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and cultural heritage of Kahnawà:ke, ensuring that the environment remains a vibrant and integral part of the community’s way of life. We are very happy to help them with their birds populations !
https://kahnawakeenvironment.com/
Highlights
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Captures total: 400
Banded total: 100
How Can You Help
Our research is made possible through the generous support of donors, volunteers, and partners. Your donations help keep the McGill Bird Observatory running, allowing us to conduct vital studies on bird migration, stopover behavior, 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