This habitat quality model shows the probability of the presence of short-eared owls in southern Quebec during the nesting season. It is based on species presence data and a modeling of several environmental variables of interest to the species during the nesting period. The model is based on 64 ha analysis units, i.e. cells with a side length of 800 meters. For more details, for example on the study area, the data used and the modeling carried out, consult the following report [“Habitat quality model for the short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) in southern Quebec”] (https://cdn-contenu.quebec.ca/cdn-contenu/faune/documents/habitats/RA_modele-qualite-habitat_hibou_marais.pdf). ### What is an MQH? A habitat quality model (HQM) is a “rough representation” of the preferred habitat of a wildlife species. For general information, consult the [“Habitat Quality Assessment”] page (https://www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/faune/gestion-faune-habitats-fauniques/habitats-fauniques/evaluation-qualite-habitats). ### WARNING The MQH was developed primarily in order to determine the sectors with the best potential to shelter the target species, in order to prioritize inventories. The models developed have limitations and therefore cannot be used to confirm the absence of a species at a given location. Consult the [“The benefits and limitations of habitat quality models”] section (https://www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/faune/gestion-faune-habitats-fauniques/habitats-fauniques/evaluation-qualite-habitats#c159177) on the “Habitat Quality Assessment” page for general information or the [report] (https://cdn-contenu.quebec.ca/cdn-contenu/faune/documents/habitats/RA_modele-qualite-habitat_hibou_marais.pdf) for information specific to the short-eared owl MQH.**This third party metadata element was translated using an automated translation tool (Amazon Translate).**

Canadian nesting zones are broad, general areas, corresponding roughly to Bird Conservation Regions (version 2014. updates have been made in 2022) https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/avoiding-harm-migratory-birds/general-nesting-periods/nesting-periods.html The limits of nesting zones reflect: - variations in species diversity - variations in mean annual temperature - similarities in the nesting periods within and between zones Changes in the nesting period between adjacent nesting zones occur as a gradient. When working near the boundary of a zone, you should also consider the nesting period of the adjacent zone.. More detail technical information are available here: https://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/9.843362/publication.html Warning: This technical information on timing of nesting migratory birds are published by EC to support the planning of activities in order to reduce the risk of detrimental effects to migratory birds, their nests and eggs. This technical information constitutes advice only. This information does not provide an authorization for harming or killing migratory birds or for the disturbance, destruction or taking of nests or eggs as prohibited under the MBR. This information does not provide a guarantee that the activities will avoid contravening the MBR or other laws and regulations. This is general information not intended to be relied on as official advice concerning the legal consequences of any specific activity. It is not a substitute for the MBCA, the MBR, or any other legislation. It is the responsibility of individuals and companies to assess their risk with regards to migratory birds and design relevant avoidance and mitigation measures.