The ONA continues to advance species-at-risk conservation through research, monitoring, habitat stewardship, and collaborative partnerships across the Okanagan, Similkameen, and West Kootenay regions.
Our work focuses on understanding wildlife populations, tracking species recovery, assessing habitat effectiveness, and strengthening partnerships with Indigenous communities and government agencies. From monitoring rare birds and bats to evaluating ecosystem recovery and supporting landscape-scale conservation initiatives, these projects provide critical information to guide conservation actions and protect biodiversity for future generations.
Initiatives and Projects
The Yellow-breasted Chat is one of British Columbia’s rarest songbirds. ONA monitors populations in the West Kootenays through surveys, nest monitoring, and bird banding to better understand breeding success, habitat use, and population trends. This work provides valuable information on the factors that influence survival and reproductive success, helping guide recovery efforts for this species at risk.
ONA uses a network of remote trail cameras to monitor wildlife across the Okanagan and Similkameen valleys, with a particular focus on mesocarnivores, or medium-sized predators. The program documents species presence, distribution, and habitat use while contributing to a broader understanding of ecosystem health. Camera surveys regularly capture a diverse range of wildlife and provide important information for conservation planning and management.
ONA participates in regional and continental bat monitoring initiatives using acoustic detectors that record bat calls. These surveys help identify species present within the landscape and track changes in bat activity over time. Monitoring contributes to conservation efforts for bats, many of which face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and emerging diseases.
ONA works with government agencies and syilx communities to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of Wildlife Habitat Areas established for species at risk. This work includes assessing habitat conditions, identifying potential threats, and supporting management actions that enhance habitat quality. Monitoring helps ensure that protected areas continue to provide the conditions necessary for species recovery and long-term ecosystem health.
ONA conducts inventory surveys and monitoring for the Threatened Western Screech Owl (macfarlanei subspecies) in the South Okanagan. Through surveys and wildlife tracking technology, researchers gather information on owl distribution, movement patterns, habitat use, and survival. The project supports recovery planning and helps improve understanding of this elusive species and its habitat requirements
Conserving species at risk requires strong partnerships and coordinated action. ONA works closely with syilx communities, provincial and federal governments, researchers, and conservation organizations to advance recovery efforts for species at risk. Through collaborative projects, habitat restoration initiatives, and knowledge sharing, these partnerships support healthy ecosystems and help ensure the long-term persistence of vulnerable species across the region.
Contact
Kristen Mancuso, PhD, RPBio -Senior Wildlife Biologist
Email: kmancuso@syilx.org