Key Biodiversity Areas
Canada's critical places for nature
How we work
KBAs are sites that contribute to the persistence of biodiversity nationally and globally. Found across land, freshwater, and marine environments, KBAs support rare and threatened species and ecosystems, as well as key natural processes. They range in size from small patches of habitat to large tracts of land or water.
KBAs are designated based on specific, measurable criteria. The designation does not give the site a particular management prescription or legal status. KBAs may encompass private or public land, sometimes overlapping, partially or entirely, with legally protected sites.
The KBA Program strives to ensure that sites are properly identified, their values are well documented and effectively managed, and that these places are adequately safeguarded and receive appropriate resources.
Where we work
WCS Canada focuses on KBAs across Canada as part of the KBA Canada partnership.
Stories and op-eds
Canada cannot afford to miss the biodiversity train
KBA Canada Technical Coordinator Chloé Debyser outlines the risks posed to 18 Key Biodiversity Areas by the proposed Alto high speed rail line, and how Canada's recently announced Nature Strategy already has the tools for common sense solutionsChloé Debyser
The Biodiversity Bikeride: A Cross-Country Biodiversity Journey
Cyclist and nature enthusiast Kevin Bouliane joined us to reflect on his cross-country Biodiversity Bikeride, his relationship to nature as a non-expert, and what gives him hope for the future of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in Canada.
"You don’t need to be an expert to care about the natural world”
Kevin Bouliane is a cyclist on a mission: to visit as many Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) as possible by cycling across Canada.Media coverage
Submissions open for photo contest showcasing Canada’s biodiversity
Photo contest aimed at preserving Canada’s natural beauty now open for submissions
How a 'fascinating' moss got a B.C. municipality's river globally recognized
Press releases
