Arctic post-polynya supports a seabird biodiversity hotspot

Climate change is drastically altering habitats and biodiversity in Northern Canada, threatening Inuit food security and traditional lifestyles. Monitoring these sensitive ecosystems will help track spatiotemporal impacts of environmental constraints. We coupled drone and aerial surveys with historical colony counts to map culturally important seabird hotspots within a Nunatsiavut polynya system during ice-covered and ice-free seasons. Seasonal shifts in seabird abundance and distribution were evident, with more individuals present during the ice-free season. In 2023, we recorded the highest Common Eider colony counts to date, with 1859 breeding pairs. Three gull species declined sharply between 1978 to 2012, reflecting regional trends, but colony sizes have since stabilised or increased. Double-crested Cormorant colony sizes have remained stable for 20 years, yet community members report large abundance increases and northern range shifts. Notably, the area supports nationally important aggregations of foraging Razorbill, exceeding the threshold for Key Biodiversity Area nomination. These abundance and distribution patterns can support Inuit-led conservation initiatives, from protected area planning to assessing risks to egg and meat harvests. Continuing to integrate Inuit Knowledge and community priorities with modern tools will help inform whether nationally important bird populations will persist in this ecologically unique region under future climate pressures.