Quebec Habitat Conditions
Habitat conditions are assessed regularly by DUC and are presented in our Habitat Reports. The following is a compilation of impressions, collected from DUC field staff, of environmental conditions relative to breeding waterfowl. These observations are not based on systematic surveys, and are not intended to describe hunting conditions. Our most recent Habitat Report was prepared November 2010, and had the following to say about habitat conditions in Québec:
October temperatures were close to average throughout the province, except in eastern regions, where they were slightly higher than normal. So far, the province has experienced a warm November, with temperatures 2.5 to 3 C warmer than average. October rainfall amounts were above normal in eastern areas and in Montreal, while western areas recorded about 40 per cent less total precipitation than average. Overall, total precipitation has been close to the norm in November.
Snow amounts were lower than the monthly average in October, especially on the north shore and the Saguenay regions, which had 99 and 97 per cent less snow, respectively. Snow did not stay on the ground until the end of the month, and there has been less snow than usual in November.
At Sorel Station, the St. Lawrence water level was 40 cm higher than the average in October. Wetlands were in better shape last month than they were in August and September. Greater snow geese, Canada geese, and duck hunting seasons were very good this year. Large numbers of Canada Geese were observed in Ottawa River Valley and Abitibi regions.
Overall, moisture levels are very good, and habitat conditions are good throughout the province. Only small wetlands are frozen, and frequent October rainfall helped to ensure a good frost seal this year.
This report should only be redistributed as a full PDF document, with DUC permission.
Download the full November Report report.
Current moisture maps are also available through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s website at w ww.agr.gc .ca/pfra/drought/pr_e.htm.
Detailed breeding waterfowl survey reports and forecasts are available at www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/.
