Harlequin Ducks in Nunavut

Abstract The distribution and abundance of the Harlequin Duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) is poorly known in Arctic Canada. The limited historical information on this species is summarized, and new field surveys and interviews with Inuit hunters in 1998-2002 were also conducted. Recent data confirmed that Harlequins still occur on Baffin Island and are breeding. The majority of new data on this duck come from the Kimmirut area of southeastern Baffin Island, where surveys in the 1930s also found the species. However, it occurs as far west as Cape Dorset, and as far north as Clyde River. Few birds were observed during recent field surveys, suggesting that the population on Baffin Island is small and dispersed. Future monitoring of Harlequin Ducks in Nunavut will probably be best accomplished using community-based surveys by hunters.