Nest record schemes were initiated in Canada in the mid-1950s, based on a methodology first developed by the British Trust for Ornithology in 1939. British Columbia was the first province to organize a nest record scheme program. There are now nest record schemes across the country. Nest record schemes rely on volunteers - both amateurs and professionals - to collect and submit data on nesting birds. Many contributors only submit data on a few nests each year, but the number of people who participate creates an invaluable national database on nesting birds across the country.
A nest record scheme coordinator in each region of Canada provides information and support to interested birdwatchers. Originally, volunteers completed nest record cards and sent them in to regional coordinators at the end of the season. Data from all regions can now be submitted online through Project NestWatch. Many regional schemes have also been digitizing old nest record cards to make historical data available online.
If you have questions, or if you require traditional nest record cards (hard copies), please contact the coordinator in your region.
Website: naturealberta.ca/alberta-natural-history/bird-projects/prairie-nest-records-scheme-pnrs (also includes the Northwest Territories and Nunavut)
Cards are available free from the PNRS for each region.
In AB:
Nature AlbertaIn SK:
Royal Saskatchewan MuseumIn MB, NT, NU:
Manitoba MuseumImportant Note: To request nest cards or a nest record manual during the period 15 May to 31 July, please contact Linda Van Damme at: lvd2@shaw.ca