2019 - 2023: Recording Métis harvest to protect rights
Environment and Climate Change Department
"Migratory birds and their patterns are very important and their routes need protecting and stewardship. I aim to do what I can to help"
Population monitoring and management is integral to ensuring the species that nourished our ancestors will continue to nourish our descendants.
What are migratory birds?
Many of our winged relatives migrate, or travel, incredible distances across North America along one of four major flyways, crossing international borders. Therefore, protecting migratory birds requires an international approach.
The Migratory Birds Convention Act is an agreement between Canada and the United States that protects three major groups: waterfowl, songbirds, and seabirds.
The four major flyways for migrating birds are the Atlantic, Mississippi, Central & Pacific.
The four major flyways in the western hemisphere
"I think that a person who harvests should be willing to report what they have harvested so we can do more studies on the area for future generations to come"
The Migratory Bird Harvest Survey
Tracking the number of birds hunted each year is important to protecting migratory bird species. To support the sustainable harvest of migratory birds, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, with the support of the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) provides an opportunity for Métis hunters to anonymously report their annual harvest. This survey is an opportunity for Métis harvesters to share their experiences and concerns.
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government draws on this information to advocate for the protection of culturally important species and areas.
Migratory Bird Survey Results
01 / 07
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government has been monitoring the migratory bird harvest since 2019.
From 2019 to 2023, the top three species harvested by Métis hunters were Mallards, Canada Geese, and Snow Geese.
The top species harvested by Métis Citizens are Mallards, Snow Geese, and Canada Geese
Hunting Zones
Métis hunters report their harvest using Alberta's Migratory bird management zones.
Hunting Zone 1 includes most of Central and Northern Alberta.
Hunting Zone 2 includes most of Southern Alberta.
Click HERE for more information about Migratory Bird Management zones and harvesting regulations for Non-Indigenous hunters.
Harvest Management Zones in Alberta - Government of Canada
2023
Birds Harvested: 3310
Species Reported: 24
Top Species: Canada Goose (1022), Snow Goose (899), Mallard (681),
Completed Surveys: 441
In 2023, Snow Geese were the second most harvested species
2022
Birds Harvested: 5308
Species Reported: 30
Top Species: Canada Goose (1607), Mallard (1282), Snow Goose (764)
Completed Surveys: 599
Canada Geese in a field at sunset
The top species harvested in 2022 was Canada Goose
2021
Birds Harvested: 2933
Species Reported: 26
Top Species: Canada Goose (790), Mallard (780), Snow Goose (305)
Completed Surveys: 496
Female Mallard duck in flight
Female Mallard
2020
Birds Harvested: 2536
Species Reported: 21
Top Species: Mallard (898), Canada Goose (863), Snow Goose (133)
Completed Surveys: 390
Blue & White morphs of Snow Geese in flight
Snow Goose
2019
Birds Harvested: 1369
Species Reported: 24
Top Species: Mallard (466), Canada Goose (351), Snow Goose (81)
Completed Surveys: 332
Green-Wing Teal wing extended to show speculum
Green-Wing Teal
"I look forward and prepare for waterfowl season all year long, to me it is better than Christmas."
When to hunt?
Métis Citizens have shared that most hunting happens in the fall, especially during the months of September and October. Some people also hunt in the spring during April and May.
How long should you hunt?
In 2022, we asked how often harvesters are going hunting. On average, Métis Citizens spent five days hunting waterfowl. However, successful hunters (people who caught birds) spent around six days, while unsuccessful hunters (people who did not catch birds) only spent around three days scouting or hunting.
Successful hunters plan to spend at least three days scouting and hunting each year
"For the love of the tradition, sport and to supply my family with quality food and knowledge of where food comes from."
Click the arrows in the gallery below to hear from Métis harvesters about why harvesting Migratory Birds is important to them!
01 / 08
"Harvesting Birds is a family tradition for us. We enjoy it and it helps feed our family."
Who do you hunt with?
Over half of our Métis Citizens shared that they harvest with their families! Other Métis Citizens also harvest with youth, friends, or Elders.
How do you hunt?
The majority of Métis Citizens told us they use shotguns or other firearms. However, Métis Citizens also hunt with compound bow, crossbow, or falconry.
Troy & son with falcon
Why do Métis Citizens in Alberta hunt migratory birds?
Métis Citizens hunt for many different reasons, however, the most common reason is for food.
We also heard that Métis Citizens harvest for culture, to spend time with family, for crafts, sport, and to support conservation. This question was asked in 2022 & 2023.
“Because I love duck soup and bannock”
Food
61% of responses indicate that Métis Citizens harvest migratory birds to feed themselves, their families, and their pets.
Moose steak, duck fingers, bannock & garden salad
"It’s also a great way to spend time with my children and introduce them to hunting."
Culture, Tradition, and Visiting
15% of responses indicate that Métis Citizens harvest for cultural or traditional reasons. 8% responses indicate that Metis Citizens harvest to visit or spend time with friends & family.
Passing on knowledge, sharing cultural hunting practices, and treating the environment with respect are values of Métis Citizens.
Dad & son with a bountiful harvest
Hunting is a great way to spend time as a family
"Hopefully everyone just puts a little effort in by reporting to help the wildlife management each year"
Conservation
Conservation includes managing bird populations and protecting the surrounding environment, such as mitigating damage to crops.
Mallard duck leg with ID band
Reporting bands is important for learning about where birds travel throughout their lives
"I use the feathers in my art"
"Love to make pillows with feathers"
Craft
Métis Citizens shared that they use feathers for regalia such as earrings, as well as pillows, and bedding.
Dreamcatcher made with mallard and grouse feathers
Métis Names Project: Unique names used by Métis in Alberta
A black lab carries a Greater-White Fronted Goose or Specklebelly with feet facing the camera. The sky is grey and the dog is walking through an empty field
Names like "Specks" or "Specklebellies" are based on physical characteristics.
From 2019 to 2021, the Migratory Bird Harvesting Survey asked participants what they call different species of waterfowl and gamebirds. Recording the unique names is important because it allows for clearer communication with harvesters.
Métis in Alberta use unique names for many species of waterfowl in Alberta. The names are often based on physical characteristics (such as “Specklebellies” or “Specks” for the black spots on the stomachs of Greater White-fronted Geese), or names found in historic literature.
Click the arrows in the gallery below to explore Michif, Cree, & Métis common names for Migratory Birds!
Did you find a mistake? We’re learning too! Contact us at environment@metis.org to share your knowledge and make this resource even better for the future!
Emerging Concerns: Avian Influenza
Click the arrows in the story below to learn more about Avian Influenza
"I'm concerned about current wild bird population numbers, as I believe avian flu has been particularly invasive in waterfowl populations. I won't be harvesting birds until the population numbers recover to pre-flu amounts. I'm very careful/concerned about animal and bird populations being over-hunted."
"Noticed more dead birds than usual which looked like they may have died of the flu. Conditions have been bad the past few seasons so this hasn't helped"
What is Avian Influenza?
Avian influenza, sometimes called bird flu, is a virus that occurs in birds like ducks, geese, gulls, and raptors. Transmission of the virus from birds to humans and other mammals is rare.
Can humans or dogs get Avian Influenza?
Yes, but it is rare!
Avian Influenza has been reported by people working closely with domestic poultry, such as on chicken farms or in processing plants.
Canines like dogs and foxes can get Avian Influenza if they eat infected birds.
How is Avian Influenza spread between birds?
Avian Influenza is spread through poop and mucus from infected birds. Birds that live in large groups or colonies, such as geese and gulls, are at a higher risk for Avian Influenza.
Tips for a safe harvest:
Cook & clean thoroughly
Wash hands regularly while handling meat.
Clean work areas, tools, and clothing after harvesting and processing.
Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while handling dead birds or raw game products.
Cook meat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 74°C & whole birds to 82°C.
Supervise your Pets
Do not let pets eat raw meat from wild birds.
Collect ducks or geese from retriever dogs promptly.
Collecting Eggs
Wear gloves when collecting eggs.
Avoid harvesting or collecting eggs from areas where sick birds have been observed.
Avoid collecting cracked or dirty eggs.
Eight Mallard eggs in a nest lined with downy feathers
Geese and decoys in a field at sunrise
Signs of a sick bird include:
Lack of movement & coordination
Tremors
Swelling around neck & eyes
Coughing, gasping, or sneezing
If you find a sick or dead bird please report it to the Alberta Environment and Parks Office at 310-0000.
Click on the photos below to learn more about Community Bird Walk events in 2023 & 2024.
2024 Bird Walks
2024 Bird Walks. Click to expand.
In 2024, the Environment and Climate Change Department hosted four Community Bird Walks.
Carburn Park (2024)
Carburn Park (2024). Click to expand.
Highlights of the day included sightings of a stunning Western Tanager, swooping tree swallows, a pair of handsome Belted Kingfishers, and a nest of Bald Eagles. Click here for the complete trip report:
Sspopiaahpatt Sikimi - Dr. Elizabeth Hall Wetlands (2024)
Sspopiaahpatt Sikimi - Dr. Elizabeth Hall Wetlands (2024). Click to expand.
Highlights of the day included views of American Coot couples, turtles on the lodge, and a nursing porcupine eating shoots in the trees. Click here for the complete trip report:
Queen Elizabeth Provincial Park (2024)
Queen Elizabeth Provincial Park (2024). Click to expand.
Highlights of the day included finding an Eastern Phoebe nest, Surf Scoters, loons, Red-Winged Blackbirds, and lots of other waterfowl. Click here for the complete trip report:
Beaumaris Park (2024)
Beaumaris Park (2024). Click to expand.
Highlights of the day included a very good view of a Black-Crowned Night Heron, sightings of charming American Coot chicks distinguishable by their bright orange beaks & bald red heads, and visits from American White Pelicans and a Double-Crested Cormorant. Click here for a complete trip report:
2023 Bird Walks
2023 Bird Walks. Click to expand.
In 2023, the Environment and Climate Change Department hosted three Community Bird Walks.
Frank Lake Conservation Area (2023)
Frank Lake Conservation Area (2023). Click to expand.
Some highlights of the day in High River included seeing Black-crowned Night Herons and the charming American Coot chicks distinguishable by their bright orange beaks & bald red heads. Click here for a complete trip report:
Beaverhill Bird Observatory (2023)
Beaverhill Bird Observatory (2023). Click to expand.
Some highlights of the day at Beaverhill Bird Observatory in Tofield, included meeting "Tansi", the Great Horned Owl, and seeing Red-Winged Blackbirds up close during the banding demonstration. For a complete list of sightings, click here for the complete trip report:
Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory (2023)
Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory (2023). Click to expand.
Some highlights of the day in Slave Lake, included seeing a Red-Eyed Vireo, Tennessee Warbler, & Swainson’s Thrush in hand. For a complete list of sightings, click here to see the full trip report:
2024 Bird Walks
In 2024, the Environment and Climate Change Department hosted four Community Bird Walks.
Carburn Park - Calgary, AB
Sspopiaahpatt Sikimi (Dr. Elizabeth Hall Wetlands) - Lethbridge, AB
Queen Elizabeth Provincial Park - Peace River, AB
Beaumaris Park- Edmonton, AB
Carburn Park (2024)
Highlights of the day included sightings of a stunning Western Tanager, swooping tree swallows, a pair of handsome Belted Kingfishers, and a nest of Bald Eagles. Click here for the complete trip report:
Sspopiaahpatt Sikimi - Dr. Elizabeth Hall Wetlands (2024)
Highlights of the day included views of American Coot couples, turtles on the lodge, and a nursing porcupine eating shoots in the trees. Click here for the complete trip report:
Highlights of the day included finding an Eastern Phoebe nest, Surf Scoters, loons, Red-Winged Blackbirds, and lots of other waterfowl. Click here for the complete trip report:
Highlights of the day included a very good view of a Black-Crowned Night Heron, sightings of charming American Coot chicks distinguishable by their bright orange beaks & bald red heads, and visits from American White Pelicans and a Double-Crested Cormorant. Click here for a complete trip report:
In 2023, the Environment and Climate Change Department hosted three Community Bird Walks.
Frank Lake Conservation Area - High River, AB
Beaverhill Bird Observatory - Tofield, AB
Boreal Centre for Birds - Slave Lake, AB
Frank Lake Conservation Area (2023)
Some highlights of the day in High River included seeing Black-crowned Night Herons and the charming American Coot chicks distinguishable by their bright orange beaks & bald red heads. Click here for a complete trip report:
Some highlights of the day at Beaverhill Bird Observatory in Tofield, included meeting "Tansi", the Great Horned Owl, and seeing Red-Winged Blackbirds up close during the banding demonstration. For a complete list of sightings, click here for the complete trip report:
Some highlights of the day in Slave Lake, included seeing a Red-Eyed Vireo, Tennessee Warbler, & Swainson’s Thrush in hand. For a complete list of sightings, click here to see the full trip report:
Thank you to everyone who submitted a survey for 2023!
Want to get involved? Reach out to environment@metis.org
Want your photo featured here? Submit them with your survey!
2022
CHECK WITH DEAN ABOUT WHO THIS IS
Canada Goose 2022
Snow Geese
Canada Geese
Thank you to everyone who submitted a survey for 2022!
Glossary & Acronyms
Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) - The purpose of the Migratory Birds Convention Act (MBCA) is to protect and conserve migratory bird populations and individuals. Legal protection extends to their nests, eggs, and any part of the bird. The killing or harming of the birds or destruction or disturbance of nests and eggs is unlawful regardless of intent.
Migration – Movement of a group of animals (or people) from one place to another. Waterfowl and other birds migrate annually from their breeding habitat to their overwintering habitat, which may be as far apart as different continents.
Waterfowl – Common term used to refer to the family Anatidae which includes ducks, geese, and swans
WMU - Wildlife Management Unit
ECCC - Environment and Climate Change Canada
CWS - Canadian Wildlife Service
Names like "Specks" or "Specklebellies" are based on physical characteristics.
The four major flyways in the western hemisphere
In 2023, Snow Geese were the second most harvested species
The top species harvested in 2022 was Canada Goose
Female Mallard
Snow Goose
Green-Wing Teal
Successful hunters plan to spend at least three days scouting and hunting each year
Hunting is a great way to spend time as a family
Reporting bands is important for learning about where birds travel throughout their lives
