The extensive beaches, salt marshes, gravel ridges and offshore habitat along the James Bay southern coast of Ontario and Quebec are one of the most important areas in Canada for arctic breeding shorebirds as well as Brant, Black and Surf Scoters. Nearly 20% of the global population of Brant has been recorded off shore in fall, and 15% to 20% of the global population of the endangered Rufa Red Knot uses the coastal habitats as stopover each fall. This area is globally significant for at least 15 species of birds and harbours high numbers of other threatened species such as the Yellow Rail. There are efforts to recognize this area as Canada’s eighth Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network site.

Photo Credit: Ted Cheskey

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