Scoters are monitored through the Waterfowl Breeding Population and Habitat Survey (WBPHS) in the western part of their range, but the three species are not differentiated during this survey, as it is difficult to distinguish among them from a fixed-wing aircraft. In eastern Canada, the WBPHS only partially covers the southern edge of the Surf Scoter’s range. An additional issue is that the survey is not optimally timed to monitor Surf Scoters, which generally breed later than other duck species, leading to annual population estimates that fluctuate widely depending on timing of migration and on how many birds remain in survey areas at the time of the survey (Lepage and Savard 2013). Therefore, targeted monitoring and research activities are conducted periodically. The population abundance is roughly estimated at 700,000 birds for all North America (North American Waterfowl Management Plan 2012), with about 225,000 wintering along the Pacific Coast and from 150,000 to 400,000 wintering on the Atlantic Coast (Sea Duck Joint Venture 2015). Because of the lack of information specific to this species, national population goals for the western or eastern populations have not yet been determined. Detailed information on the population status of waterfowl species is available in the Population Status of Migratory Game Birds in Canada report (summarized version). To obtain a copy of the full version of this report, including tables and graphs, please contact ec.scf-oismiggibiers-cws-miggamebirds.ec@canada.ca.
Additional information on: Eastern waterfowl breeding ground survey
Additional information on: British Columbia Coastal Waterbird Survey
Additional information on: Waterfowl Breeding Population Survey of the Central Interior Plateau of B.C.
