The Launch of the 2001-2005 Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Ontario

The 1981-1985 Breeding Bird Atlas, a project that will take place every 20 years (the 2001-2005 Atlas features a Prairie Warbler).

The Atlas Launch at the ROM on Feb. 10, 2008 was a huge success. A capacity crowd was in attendance as Mike Cadman, Gregor Peck, Donald Sutherland, Denis Lepage, and Andrew Couturier introduced the 2001-2005 Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Ontario. Most importantly, it was a place where politicians, conservationists, researchers, professors, environmentalists, and the public were able to get together to discuss the results of the Atlas, its importance to Ontario birds, and the next steps that have to be taken now that the 2001-2005 Atlas is over (the next will take place in 20 years, as 20 years before now the last Atlas was published). You could sense the magnitude of the project when talking to any birder or naturalist. The excitement in the room was palpable.

When Mike Cadman was called upon to make his speech, he received a much-deserved standing ovation. A project of this undertaking requires passion, perseverance, and hard work that only the most dedicated individual would be able to accomplish. An 8 year project spanning the province with thousands of volunteers, researchers, representatives, writers, and editors volunteering their time and efforts. His speech had a hard-hitting message. The launch certainly does not mean the end for the 2001-2005 Atlas. Addressing the members of Environment Canada, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and other organizations, Cadman stressed that now is the time to use the wealth of knowledge available to us on Ontario's bird populations to examine (and hopefully solve) the many problems facing birds due to human activity. Bird populations that are on the rise are perfect examples of the success of conservation. Bald Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Trumpeter Swan. These species are prime examples of how peoples' conservation efforts have not gone unnoticed. On the other hand, species such as grassland birds and insect-eating species like swallows and nighthawks are on the decline. Although we can only begin to guess why this is the case, the results of the Atlas provide an imperative baseline for any future research on these and other species.

I have had a chance to look through my Atlas and it is a spectacular publication. Hundreds of photos are available, maps for every species (including possible, probable, and confirmed breeding sites as well as abundance maps which were made possible by the hundreds of point counts performed across the province). If you haven't already ordered or purchased a copy, now is the time to get it. All added proceeds go directly to the conservation of Ontario birds.

For me, the launch was not only an opportunity to make contacts and talk with some of Ontario's best birders, but also a reminder of the importance of bird study. As I've said before, birds are one of our best environmental indicators we have and this Atlas provides a starting point for addressing environmental impact in the future. The launch was an inspiration. I left feeling empowered to get out there and continue to study and watch birds, which brings me to my final point. Yes, there are men and women who are leaders in bird research and conservation but where would they be without birdwatchers? Birdwatchers that go out on their own time and volunteer their own eyes and ears to the study of birds every day. Birdwatchers whose skills and reports provide a basis for bird study in Ontario and beyond. Birdwatchers are making a difference. They really are. And in my own eyes, I can't think of a better, more rewarding hobby.