Wildlife and Habitat Surveys

Wildlife and habitat surveys are core tools in environmental consulting. They assess the presence of species and the quality of their habitat, especially those protected under provincial or federal legislation. These surveys enable tailored planning solutions that support responsible development, permitting, and long-term conservation of biodiversity.

Wildlife surveys identify critical habitat for species at risk and help determine if further permitting, habitat compensation, or avoidance strategies are required. The Endangered Species Act protects listed species and their habitats in Ontario, and surveys are a recognized component of the compliance process, helping ensure successful, lawful development. These findings inform whether further permitting and approvals, habitat compensation, mitigation, or avoidance strategies are needed.

Acoustic monitoring captures calls of elusive or nocturnal species, such as bats, birds, and frogs. This technique is efficient for surveying large or remote areas, including industrial or mining sites, with fewer human resources. Data is collected over extended periods and analyzed post-fieldwork to identify species presence.

Yes. Many species require surveys during specific seasonal windows. For example, breeding bird surveys occur in late spring and early summer, while amphibian surveys often start shortly after spring thaw. Missing these windows can delay approvals. Dougan’s tailored survey plans align with accepted regulatory guidelines and ensure efficient, compliant scheduling.

The Migratory Bird Convention Act prohibits the disturbance, destruction, or removal of active bird nests during breeding season (and several species are also protected even when inactive). Surveys ensure compliance during the breeding season by identifying active nests and suggesting mitigation measures. Monitoring enables efficient timing for vegetation clearing while protecting biodiversity.

Nest-sweeps are required if vegetation must be removed during the nesting season (typically April–August in Ontario). Dougan’s ornithologists conduct pre-clearance nest sweeps to confirm the absence of active nests and define appropriate buffers, balancing compliance with project timelines.

These assessments determine whether a site contains habitat suitable for listed species, even if those species are not directly observed. Assessments are critical under SARA and ESA, particularly when historical records or suitable habitat features exist. They support precautionary and nature-based planning approaches.

Significant Wildlife Habitat supports regionally important species and ecosystems. As defined in the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS), examples include amphibian breeding ponds, deer wintering areas, or rare species habitat. Identification involves mapping, field surveys, indicator species detection, and assessment of regional context.

Wildlife corridors connect fragmented habitats and maintain ecological function. These corridors are legally significant in Ontario and require consideration in planning processes. Dougan uses camera traps, tracking, surveys and mapping to assess habitat connectivity and propose tailored solutions to protect or restore ecological integration.

Species at Risk are typically considered in the pre-construction phases, often through an Environmental Assessment (EA) or Impact Study (EIS). Dougan’s ecologists advise on compliance, liaise with regulators, and help integrate climate adaptation and biodiversity goals into development, ensuring lawful and successful outcomes for clients and nature alike.

If listed species or habitat are present, projects may require permits, mitigation, and schedule changes (e.g., delaying tree removal to avoid bat maternity seasons). In some cases, project redesign or alternative locations may be needed. Early detection allows more efficient, informed decision-making.

Yes. Many municipalities require wildlife surveys as part of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or planning submission. These surveys provide the necessary data to support zoning changes, site plan applications, and other municipal approvals while ensuring environmental compliance.

Yes, where habitat features like forests or old structures exist. Many bat species are listed as at risk. Bat surveys, often using acoustic monitoring, are critical for confirming presence or absence and are commonly required for mining, industrial, or residential projects.

Yes. Dougan Ecology offers expert consultant testimony and ecological data for Ontario Land Tribunal hearings, Conservation Authority appeals, and other regulatory processes. This ensures defensible, science-based positions in development or conservation disputes.

Survey results are generally valid for 5 years, unless there are major habitat changes or legal updates. Some permits or proceedings may require updated surveys, especially for EIS documentation or high-sensitivity areas.