Great blue heron (fannini subspecies) COSEWIC assessement and update status report: chapter 1

Assessment Summary – April 2008

Common name:
Great Blue Heron fannini subspecies

Scientific name:
Ardea herodias fannini

Status:
Special concern

Reason for designation:
In Canada, this subspecies is distributed along the coast of British Columbia with a relatively small population that is concentrated at a few breeding colonies in southern British Columbia. There is evidence of declines in productivity and it is unclear whether the population is stable or declining. Threats from eagle predation, habitat loss and human disturbance are ongoing, particularly in the southern part of the range where concentrations of birds are highest.

Occurrence:
British Columbia

Status history:
Designated Special Concern in April 1997 and April 2008. Last assessment based on an update report.