Contorted-pod Eveningprimrose, Camissonia contorta - Witty's Beach KBA Photo: P. Lawn

Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)

What are Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs)?

Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) are places identified through science as being especially important for the survival of nature. They are selected because they support rare or threatened species, unique ecosystems, or key natural processes, making them priorities for conservation in British Columbia and around the world.

Why KBAs Matter

Some places on Earth are more important than others for keeping biodiversity alive. KBAs are those places where:

  • rare or threatened species are found
  • ecosystems are rich or unique
  • critical natural processes happen that support many forms of life

Protecting KBAs helps protect the whole web of life, not just one group of animals.

What Makes a Site a KBA?

A place becomes a KBA when it meets specific scientific criteria showing it’s vital for biodiversity. These criteria include:

  • supporting rare species
  • having unique ecosystems
  • playing a role in big natural cycles (like migration or breeding)

Note: Being called a KBA doesn’t automatically give legal protection — it highlights conservation priority.

How KBAs Are Different from IBAs

  • Important Bird & Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) focus mainly on birds and their habitats.
  • Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) include all kinds of species and life forms — from mammals to plants and insects.
  • KBAs build on the success of IBAs but cover a wider range of nature.

KBAs in British Columbia

BC includes many globally and nationally significant biodiversity sites, such as:

  • Fraser River Estuary — vital for millions of migratory birds and many marine and shoreline species
  • Scott Islands — home to huge populations of seabirds and marine life
  • Douglas Lake Plateau — important habitat for Sandhill Cranes and many other species

These places are recognized because they support rich and essential ecological communities.

Who’s Involved?

KBAs are identified and supported by conservation groups, scientists, naturalists, volunteers, and partners across governments and Indigenous communities. They use scientific data and local knowledge to understand and protect these sites.

What You Can Do

If you care about nature and biodiversity, you can:

  • learn about local KBAs in your area
  • contribute species observations to tools like iNaturalist or eBird
  • join or support local naturalist and conservation groups
  • share why biodiversity matters with your community