Québec Seabird Colony Status And Distribution Database

The Computerized Database of Québec Seabirds (CDQS) monitors the status, distribution, and trends of seabird populations nesting in Québec. Compiled and updated for over 40 years by the Canadian Wildlife Service, it integrates data from colony surveys, scientific literature dating back over a century, and observations from amateur ornithologists.

Use Cases

• Analyze population_trends for species like Common Eiders or gulls using colony survey data over a 40-year period.
• Model species_distribution for Gaviidae (loons) or Alcidae (puffins) along the St. Lawrence River, estuary, and Gulf using geospatial colony locations.
• Assess conservation status by comparing historical literature records from over a century ago with recent survey data for cormorants or terns.

Strengths

• Over 40 years of continuous monitoring and updates by a government wildlife service.
• Integrates data from multiple sources including systematic surveys, century-old literature, and citizen science observations.

Limitations

• Specific row counts, column details, and sample sizes are not publicly disclosed.
• Geographic scope is limited to seabird colonies nesting in Québec, primarily along the St. Lawrence system.

Provenance

Source

Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS), Québec region, Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Collection Method

Data comes mainly from seabird colony surveys conducted during the breeding season, enriched by scientific literature and amateur ornithologist observations.

Time Range

Includes data spanning over 40 years, with historical records dating back more than a century.

Freshness

Regularly updated; last platform update was February 2026.

Geography

Seabird colonies nesting in Québec, particularly along the shores of the St. Lawrence River, estuary, and Gulf.