Use of Artificial Islands by Nesting Waterfowl in Southeastern Alberta

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Abstract
From 1976-1978 the use of artificial islands by nesting waterfowl was investigated in southeastern Alberta. A total of 1205 nests of 12 spp. of ducks and 144 nests of Canada geese (Branta canadensis) was found on 203 islands. Mallards (Anas platyrhynchos), gadwalls (A. strepera) and lesser scaup (Aythya affinis) selected islands as nesting sites more than other species of ducks. The average density of ducks on the islands ranged from 1.8-29.1 nests/ha, with nesting success of 43-59%. Canada geese nested on 53% of the islands, with a mean of 1.35 nests/island; their nesting success averaged 70%. Smaller islands, farther from shore and with greater vegetative cover, were most productive. Means of improving construction, positioning and vegetation of islands are suggested. [The remaining species of ducks are Anas acuta, A. clypeata A. americana, A. discors, A. crecca, A. cyanoptera, Aythya americana Melanitta deglandi and Oxyura jamaicensis.

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