© 2009 Haldimand Bird Observatory All rights reserved.
Rock Point Bird Banding Station Haldimand Bird Observatory
1. Taking birds out of the mist nets is a skill which is acquiredby those who have the patience. Care is taken not to hurt the birds even if they are quite badly tangled. It is a skill that is valued by all bird banders and is probably the hardest job at the banding station.
2. A solid knowledge of bird identification is necessary for those who are going to be bird banders. For others wishing to help it gives a first hand, close up view of birds which are in the field often just a flash in the bushes.
3. Often looking at the feathering of a bird gives a clue to the age of the bird. Is it a juvenile, or is it an older bird? Looking at the skull pattern is also used to tell the age of birds.
4. Measuring the wing chord of the bird is data that is collectedalong with the species, sex and age of the bird. Again this is a skill which can be taught to those interested in handling birds.
5. The purpose of catching the birds is to put aluminum numbered bands on the bird. This is an individual number for that bird. If the bird is caught again this band number gives information on the life expectancy of the bird, where it migrates to, and the migration routes taken by that species. It is also a valuable means of determining increases and declines in a species population.
6. The bird is placed in a tube so that it is kept quiet andthen it is weighed. Immediately after being weighed the bird is released. It is heavier by the weight of the band on the one leg but none the worsefor the experience.
If you require any more information on banding birds, please feel free to contact any of the HBO banding stations.
What to do if you find a bird band
Note the following information:
1. Your name and address
2. The band number
3. The date the band was found (or observed)
4. The exact location where it was found (orobserved)
5. The species of bird, if known
6. How the bird was found
7. The condition of the bird (alive or dead)
8. Any other markers on the bird (e.g. colourbands)
CALL this toll-free number from anywhere in North America: 1-800-327-2263
Or WRITE to:
Bird Banding Office
National Wildlife Research Centre
Canadian Wildlife Service
Hull PQ K1A 0H3
You will receive a Certificate of Appreciation telling you where andwhen the bird was banded, and who banded it.
Your contribution is important. Data obtained from recovered bands reportedby the public are a critical part of bird banding. The recovery informationwill be of great interest to the bander and a valuable addition to thepermanent files of the Banding Office.
