Identification of Beaufort Sea Migration Cooridor for Sea Ducks

Project Number: 2.1

Year Funded: 2004

Lead Institution(s): Canadian Wildlife Service

Project Lead: Lynne Dickson

Email:

Collaborator(s):

Location: Alaska

Focal Species: Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis), Common Eider (Somateria mollissima), King Eider (Somateria spectabilis)

Project Description: Oil development is increasing along the U.S. coast of the Beaufort Sea. This area is extremely important during migration for three species of sea ducks that are currently in decline: Pacific race of Common Eider, King Eider and Long-tailed Duck. Although there is some information on migration, little is known about the specific migration pathways and habitats used by these sea ducks. Hence, it is difficult to predict the degree of potential threats of expanded oil development. Using satellite telemetry, this study is providing information about the location and timing of use of migration corridors, so that analysts can better predict and mitigate any adverse effects of offshore oil development on subject populations. The study is also providing information on affiliations between wintering, breeding and moulting grounds, thereby helping to define populations units. Such information is essential to effectively manage a harvested species.