Surveys for Terrestrial Gastropods in the Kootenay Region (2008 - 2014)

​The surveys focused on locating species at risk and delineating their distributions as part of status assessments, land management, and documenting biodiversity. They included working with Ktunaxa First Nation on their traditional lands, and surveying private and crown lands. The surveys resulted in the discovery of two forest slugs new to Canada (Pygmy Slug, Kootenaia burkei; Sheathed Slug, Zacoleus idahoensis) and many new locality records for other molluscs at risk.

Observatory Hill Study Site (2007-2015)

We are conducting a long term study of Sharp-tailed Snakes at Observatory Hill near Victoria on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The main goal is to improve our understanding of the distribution, habitat use and movements of the snakes on the property. Techniques used include checking of artificial cover objects and following the movements of PIT-tagged snakes. Since the study began in 2007, we have greatly expanded the known area of occupancy by snakes on the property and have gained considerable insight into the seasonal habitat requirements of the species. This information is important in managing threats and identifying critical habitat for the recovery of the species in Canada.

  • Amphibian monitoring in the central interior of British Columbia
  • Long term studies of the distribution, habitat use and movements of the endangered Sharp-tailed Snake
  • Surveys of terrestrial gastropods at risk in British Columbia
  • Use of terrestrial gastropods as indicators of the ecological effects of logging
  • Songbird monitoring in Garry Oak habitats
  • Development of Best Management Practices for amphibians, reptiles, and terrestrial gastropods
  • Multi-species recovery planning for species at risk in the Lower Mainland
  • Habitat use and distribution of Great Blue Herons in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
  • Invasive species risk assessment and management
  • Preparation of numerous COSEWIC status reports, recovery strategies and management plans, including identification of Critical Habitat for 4 species at risk (Western Tiger Salamander, Great Basin Spadefoot, Sharp-tailed Snake, Blue-grey Taildropper (slug).


We are experienced in conducting research on a wide array of wildlife including mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and terrestrial invertebrates. Techniques used in the past include aerial surveys, radio-telemetry, harmonic direction dinfer, PIT-tagging, mark and release, point count surveys, ground transects and quadrats, pellet group surveys, trap lines, artificial cover objects, and pit-fall traps. Examples of animals studied include caribou, moose, deer, small mammals, waterfowl, herons, shorebirds, songbirds, snakes, salamanders, frogs, terrestrial gastropods, and millipedes. We provide a full range of environmental advisory, consulting, and research services in the following areas:


  • Wildlife surveys and inventories
  • Endangered species research and management
  • Habitat suitability mapping and assessment
  • Stewardship and education
  • Environmental impact assessment; mitigation and monitoring programs
  • Report writing, data analysis and GIS services

our Services

Ecological CONSULTING Services

​​Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd.

Amphibian Inventories & Monitoring
Nicola Region (2011-2015)

We are conducting a 5-year project funded by the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund to monitor five species of amphibians over a 7200 km² study area near Merritt, British Columbia. It is a collaborative program among Nicola Naturalist Society, volunteer community members, landowners, and scientists to identify and monitor wetlands important for amphibians and to mitigate threats. Volunteers are trained in monitoring methods, and stewardship activities are initiated to promote practices that facilitate coexistence in multi-use landscapes. Field methods employed to date include wetland surveys by foot or boat, night-time call surveys, road surveys, and funnel-trapping.

SOME OF OUR RECENT PROJECTS: