Species-at-Risk Projects
We receive government funding for a variety of species-at-risk research projects, aimed at addressing the knowledge gaps and objectives described in their respective Recovery Strategies. These projects are often conducted in collaboration with our partners in industry and academia.
Fowler's Toad Recovery Project
Fowler's toads are endangered in Canada, only existing in three remnant populations along the Lake Erie shoreline. Niagara is home to several sub-populations of Fowler's toads, but the level of human activity on beaches is the greatest compared to the other two populations (Long Point and Rondeau). We investigated the impact of habitat changes and human activity (cars and people) on the Fowler's toads living at Nickel Beach in Port Colborne, Ontario. Overall, due to recent high lake levels and increased erosion viable breeding sites became limited, reducing toad recruitment. This was a major factor contributing to the toad population decline during this time. Further monitoring of the population is needed to determine its long-term viability.
For more information on the Long Point project Click here !
Massasauga Recovery Project
Massasauga's live in an isolated and degraded bog ecosystem in south Niagara. Due to the dynamic hydrology of this wetland, where some seasons have high water levels and others have low, depending on both weather and human dam-removal activities, the snakes experience inconsistent habitat quality over several years. We investigated the underground, overwintering habitat of these snakes over several seasons to determine areas of low- and high-quality habitat. Next steps include translocation of individuals into good-quality habitat. Click here to learn more about Massasauga research!
Gray Ratsnake and Eastern Foxsnake Recovery Project
Gray ratsnakes and Eastern foxsnakes are listed as endangered in Ontario. We set out to investigate presence of these rare species across the Niagara region via our Citizen Science Coverboard Project, and have been working to characterize their potential hibernation habitat such as caves and karst formations found along the Niagara Escarpment.