Archived - Deterring Gull Nesting at Mahone Bay Tern Colonies

Andrews Island; Quaker Island (NS)

Reasons for a Federal Assessment
Project Description
Final Decision

Archived Content

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Reference Numbers

Canadian Environmental Assessment Registry: 05-01-10038
Environment Canada: 4119

Environmental Assessment Type

Screening

Responsible or Regulated Authorities

Environment Canada

Reasons for a Federal Assessment

On March 24, 2005, it was determined that an environmental assessment was required in relation to the project because Environment Canada considered taking action in relation to subsection 4(1) of the Migratory Birds Regulations.

Project Description (as posted in the Notice of Commencement)

The proponent will again establish a secure potential nesting site for Endangered Roseate Terns in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, by placing nest boxes on Quaker Island and Westhaver's Island (near Andrews Island), using non-lethal means to deter predators by removing up to 40 nests of Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls and using scare pistols and night lighting to deter gulls, and by attracting terns by playing tern calls and erecting tern decoys. Deterrent activities will be timed to minimize impact on nesting terns, including Roseate Terns. This project is part of the Roseate Tern restoration plan, and is supported by the Roseate Tern Recovery Team.

Final Decision

A decision was taken on April 13, 2005 and was that the authority may exercise any power or perform any duty or function with respect to the project because, after taking into consideration the screening report and taking into account the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, the authority is of the opinion that the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.