What Are Bird Nest Surveys (and When Do You Need One?)

A Must-Read Guide for Developers in British Columbia

If you're planning land development, vegetation clearing, or construction in British Columbia, it’s essential to know one thing:

You cannot legally disturb an active bird nest during the breeding season.

Failing to comply can result in fines, delays, and project shutdowns. That’s why developers and project managers across BC rely on Qualified Environmental Professionals (QEPs) to conduct bird nest surveys—also called breeding bird surveys or active nest surveys.

At ENKON Environmental Ltd., we offer fast, professional bird nest assessments to help you stay compliant and keep your project moving.

What Is a Bird Nest Survey?

A bird nest survey is a field assessment that identifies active nests (with eggs or chicks) on or near your project site, typically required during the spring and summer breeding season.

Surveys are usually performed by trained biologists or QEPs and include:

• Visual and auditory detection of nesting birds

• Inspection of trees, shrubs, ground cover, or structures

• GPS mapping and photographic documentation of nests

• Recommendations for setbacks and activity buffers

When Is a Bird Nest Survey Required?

In BC, most developers need a survey if they plan to:

• Clear vegetation between March and August (peak nesting season)

• Work near natural areas such as forests, wetlands, or green spaces

• Remove trees, hedgerows, or brush piles

• Conduct excavation, blasting, or grading near potential nesting habitat

Provincial and federal laws, including the Migratory Birds Convention Act, prohibit disturbing or destroying nests—even if it’s unintentional.

What Happens If You Skip a Nest Survey?

Without a proper bird nest assessment, your project risks:

• Stop-work orders

• Fines or legal action from Environment and Climate Change Canada

• Negative media attention or complaints from the public

• Delays waiting for the nesting period to end

In short, it’s not worth the risk.

How ENKON Conducts Bird Nest Surveys

We provide timely, defensible assessments tailored to your site and timeline. Our services include:

• Pre-clearing surveys within 24–72 hours of vegetation removal

• Ongoing nest monitoring during active construction

• Detailed reports suitable for submission to municipal, provincial, or federal agencies

• Mitigation planning, such as buffer zones or alternate clearing schedules

Our team has experience surveying in urban, rural, and remote locations across Surrey, Metro Vancouver, Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, and beyond.

Can you spot the bird nest?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How close can I work to an active bird nest?

Setbacks typically range from 5–50 metres, depending on the species and activity. Our QEPs determine appropriate buffers.

Q: Can I avoid needing a survey?

Yes—by scheduling vegetation clearing outside nesting season (Sept–Feb). Otherwise, a survey is strongly recommended.

Q: What if I find a nest halfway through construction?

Stop work near the nest and contact ENKON. We’ll assess the situation and help you determine the next steps legally and ethically.

Stay Compliant. Stay On Schedule. Hire ENKON.

Don’t let nesting birds bring your project to a halt.

Let ENKON Environmental Ltd. handle your breeding bird survey with speed, professionalism, and regulatory confidence.

Book a bird nest survey today!

📧 enkon@enkonenv.com | 📞 604-574-4477 |📍 Serving BC and Western Canada