MAPS (Mapping Avian Productivity and Survivorship)

The Boreal MAPS (Mapping Avian Productivity and Survivorship) in the Oil Sands Project established 24 bird-banding stations across reclaimed, disturbed, fragmented, and natural habitats to monitor landbird productivity and survivorship in Alberta’s oil sands region. The project uses standardized MAPS protocols to collect demographic data and habitat metrics for Boreal forest bird species. These data help assess habitat quality, inform reclamation strategies, and support environmental impact assessments. The program also provides a platform for collaborative research, including studies on metal exposure and habitat structure.

The Boreal MAPS project confirmed that reclaimed, disturbed, and natural habitats in the oil sands region support a wide diversity of landbird species, including several species of conservation concern. While reclaimed areas attracted high numbers of adult birds, their lower productivity suggests these may function as ecological "sinks" without further habitat enhancement. Natural habitats showed stronger breeding activity for species like Canada Warbler, while disturbed areas demonstrated unexpectedly high productivity, possibly due to post-fledging dispersal. Findings highlight the importance of preserving natural habitats and improving structural complexity in reclaimed areas to support long-term avian recovery and conservation.